What are the benefits of hazelnut milk?

What are the benefits of hazelnut milk?

Hazelnut milk is made from hazelnuts or hazelnut paste blended with water. Its biggest advantages are practical: it is dairy free, lactose free and has a creamy, nutty taste that works in coffee, cereal and baking.

What nutrients does it have?

• Vitamin E: hazelnuts are a source of vitamin E, an antioxidant vitamin. The amount per cup varies widely by brand, so check the label.
• Calcium and vitamin D: naturally low, but many cartons are fortified. Some brands are not.
• Protein: low, usually much less than dairy milk, which has about 8 g a cup.
• Calories: unsweetened versions are lighter and sweetened ones are higher; it varies by brand.

One plant-milk article says hazelnuts provide antioxidants, vitamin E, B vitamins, protein, calcium and healthy fats, but it also says nutrition depends on the product and gives no per-serving numbers for the milk itself. That is why the label matters more than the nut.

What are the drawbacks?

• Not safe for people with tree-nut allergy.
• Low protein, so it will not replace dairy or soy milk for protein.
• Sweetened and flavored versions can be high in sugar.
• Prices vary by brand.

How to choose and use it

1. Choose unsweetened if you want fewer calories and sugar.
2. Look for added calcium and vitamin D if you use it as your main milk.
3. Shake before pouring, and follow the use-by date; refrigerate after opening.
4. Use it in coffee, oatmeal, smoothies and baking.

We found no official statement that hazelnut milk treats or prevents any disease. For personal dietary advice, ask a doctor or dietitian.