Pecan Milk: Unveiling the Health Benefits of Nature's Elixir

I get it. It feels like the world might have reached peak plant-based milk. Do we really need 15 different varieties of milk, and then some (vanilla sweetened, vanilla unsweetened, original sweetened, original unsweetened, barista…)? It’s enough to make you just give up and go for that carton of 2%.

As a consumer, it’s hard to discern what’s actually doing the most good for any of us. But, here and in my next few posts, I thought I’d lay out the reasons why – after 5 years of producing and selling all types of nutmilks and oatmilks by hand – pecan milk emerged as the best.

Today we’re going to dissect why pecans are a nutritional powerhouse, and why, we argue, pecan milk is the best plant-based milk you can drink.

Rich in Essential Nutrients

Pecan milk is a nutrient-dense beverage that provides a wide array of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Pecans themselves are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, protein, and dietary fiber, making them a nutritious addition to any diet. When transformed into milk, these beneficial nutrients are concentrated, offering a convenient way to reap their rewards.

A handful of pecans – roughly the amount that you’ll find in a can of our milk, is about 19 halves, and is a good source of fiber, thiamin, and zinc, and an excellent source of copper and manganese.

Among the nuts, pecans are among the lowest in carbs and highest in dietary fiber. 

Heart-Healthy Fats

Unlike traditional dairy milk, which contains saturated fats, pecan milk is naturally low in saturated fat and rich in monounsaturated fats, particularly oleic acid. These heart-healthy fats have been shown to improve cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation, and lower the risk of cardiovascular disease, making pecan milk a great choice for those prioritizing heart health (which should probably be all of us, right?).

Dairy-Free and Lactose-Free

For individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies, pecan milk offers a welcome alternative. Pecan milk is naturally free from lactose, the sugar found in dairy milk that can cause digestive discomfort for some of us. Additionally, pecan milk is free from cholesterol and casein, a protein found in dairy that may trigger inflammation in sensitive individuals.

Bone-Building Nutrients

Pecan milk is fortified with essential nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which are crucial for bone health and development. 

Antioxidant Powerhouse

Pecan milk is rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E and selenium, which help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. In fact, pecans contain more antioxidants than any other tree nut – including almonds.

These powerful compounds have anti-inflammatory properties and may reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer's disease. By consuming pecan milk regularly, you can bolster your body's defenses and promote overall health and longevity.

If you’re wanting to know more, click here to learn more about the health benefits of pecans. 

I’m not here to knock the other nutmilks, or even dairy per se. That would be completely disingenuous of me, for a little half-and-half in my morning coffee is a daily ritual. But hopefully this quick context was helpful as you wade through the deep waters of plant-based milks out there. 

Try it in your smoothie, pour it over your cereal, or simply chug it. Your body will thank you.