In the natural health community, kefir is all the rage. This is among other forms of fermentation that people prefer and are trending in most homes. Either it is kefir, Kombucha, kimchi, or pickles. Kefirs’ popularity among most households has had many people crave more information about it. It is a delicious dairy drink that tastes like yogurt, but its consistency is similar to milk. Kefir is high in probiotics and nutrients and it is excellent for gut health and digestion. Those already familiar with it prefer it to yogurt. Below are the health benefits of kefir that you should know about to help you consume this family-friendly beverage more.
- An excellent nutritional profile
If you would love to get as many nutrients in your system you can add kefir as part of your diet. It has a fantastic source of many nutrients such as protein, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, riboflavin, and vitamin B12. In addition to this, it has a decent amount of vitamin D. Since it is made of fermented cows or goats milk. Then kefir grains are added to this milk which is a grain-like colony of lactic acid bacteria, resembling a cauliflower appearance. Afterward, after 24 hours, the kefir grains microorganisms ferment and multiply the sugars in the milk, hence making kefir. This family-friendly beverage tastes like sour yogurt, and the number of calories it has to depends on the type of milk you use. Also, it has bioactive compounds like peptides and organic acids that are excellent for one’s health.
- It has potent antibacterial properties.
If you need a drink that protects you against infections, kefir is amazing as it has probiotics that help with these infections. For instance, it has the Probiotic Lactobacillus kefiri that helps prevent against harmful bacteria. The probiotic helps to stop the growth of different harmful bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella. A type of carbohydrate known as kefiran that is found in kefir is best as it has antibacterial properties. Enjoy a refreshing kefir drink as it is a goldmine of friendly gut bacteria that is three times more than in the usual yogurt.
- Kefir is easy to make
Another amazing benefit of kefir is that you can make it easily from home. Especially, if you feel like the store kefir is not as amazing as the one your mother made for you. Just get the recipe, spice it up and make your kefir at home. When kefir is made with blueberries and other fresh fruit, it helps you make a scrumptious and healthy dessert. Buy these kefir grains from online or offline stores. Also, you can find many videos that teach how to make kefir and the process is very simple. Plus, if you desire thicker kefir add some full-fat cream. Once you finish the process and have your original kefir grains left. They will help you to start the process again by putting them in a jar of milk. The kefir drink is highly sustainable, nutritious, and delicious.
- It is a powerful probiotic compared to yogurt
Did you know that when you consume some microorganisms they provide more benefits to your health? These microorganisms are known as probiotics and they influence health in different ways. Such as aiding weight management, mental health, and aiding digestion. Hence in comparison to yogurt, kefir is a more potent source of probiotic food, although yogurt is the most common in the western diet. The kefir grains that help make the kefir beverage, provides 61 strains of yeasts and bacteria and hence why it is a rich probiotic source. Interestingly, other fermented dairy products have strains but they are fewer with no yeast.
- It is a high source of calcium
The calcium content in the kefir makes it essential for bone health. Hence it is important in lowering the risk of osteoporosis, especially in older women. Thus, taking kefir boosts lowering the risk of fractures as you age that is brought by osteoporosis. For this reason, as part of your diet, include kefir to increase your calcium intake to improve your bone health. In addition to this, it also contains vitamin K2 that plays an important role in calcium metabolism. As a result, it is known to reduce fractures by up to 81% as it improves bone density.
- It is low in lactose
Since most people are unable to digest and break down lactose properly. In a condition known as lactose intolerance, especially in adults. This natural sugar known as lactose is low in kefir, as the lactic acid bacteria in the kefir have gone through the fermenting process. The kefir beverage also has enzymes that help break the lactose even further making it best for people who suffer from lactose intolerance. Hence, they can easily consume this in comparison to consuming regular milk. Fortunately, you can also make kefir that is 100% lactose-free. This is possible by making your kefir with coconut water, non-dairy beverage, or fruit juice.
- Helps with various digestive issues
Due to the probiotics present in the kefir. It helps with various digestive problems as it helps restore the balance of good bacteria in the gut. Therefore, they are beneficial in treating different forms of diarrhea. Additionally, they help alleviate many digestive problems. Such as irritable bowel syndrome that can be common among most people. Therefore, make your kefir to solve any possible digestion issues to improve the digestive system.
In summary, kefir is a family-friendly drink that is nutritious and healthy. For this reason, you can also enjoy it from traditionally dairy milk or other non-diary options like coconut or fruit juices. Plus, it also contains tryptophan although the effects are not as filling as from eating a turkey meal. It helps you feel relaxed after a serving of tryptophan-containing kefir. Therefore, consume kefir to aid digestive problems, boost your immune system, and also improve your bone health. Try taking kefir today and make the most of this amazing sour drink.
