16 Extraordinary Health Benefits Of Kefir
- Maintains The Sugar Level. A study was done in the year 2015 compared the positive and negative effects of consuming Kefir in people dealing with diabetes.
- Act As Powerful Probiotics. There are so many micro-organisms that come pre-loaded with so many health benefits when ingested in the human body.
- Lowers Bad Cholesterol. ...
What is kefir and why is kefir better than yogurt?
What are the health benefits of kefir?
- Blood sugar control. A small 2015 study in Iran compared the effects of consuming kefir and conventionally fermented milk on blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.
- Lowering cholesterol. A 2017 study looked at changes in cholesterol levels among females with obesity or overweight who drank low fat milk or kefir.
- Digestive health. ...
- Killing pathogens. ...
What are the side effects of kefir?
- Gas
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramps
- Bloating
- Headaches
What are some disadvantages of kefir?
- Nausea
- Cramps
- Gas
- Bloating
- Diarrhea
How to know if kefir is bad?
When it comes to signs that your kefir has gone bad, look for the following:
- Presence of mold on top of kefir. That’s the most obvious sign ( [YK]). …
- Heavy separation. If it looks more like water and a bunch of almost solid chunks, it’s not good anymore. …
- Off or too sour smell. …
- Tastes too sour.
How often should you drink kefir?
How much should you drink? Kefir can be a healthy and delicious addition to a well-rounded diet. For best results, stick to around 1–3 cups (237–710 mL) per day and pair it with a variety of other fermented foods and beverages to increase your intake of probiotics.
Is it good to drink kefir everyday?
You can end up drinking too much kefir. Therefore, you shouldn't go too overboard with your intake. Instead, stick to around a cup or less per day. Drinking too much can end up causing potential side effects to ramp up.
Does kefir help you lose weight?
Weight loss: If you include low-fat kefir in your diet, it will help you lose weight. Kefir is rich in protein which helps you feel full for long periods of time. Although, drinking too much kefir can hinder weight loss and even lead to weight gain.
How long does it take for kefir to start working?
Kefir generally takes 12 to 24 hours to form. The exact amount of time will vary depending on environmental factors, the most important of which is temperature. Cold temperatures slow the fermentation process (and it can be all but stopped by placing the grains in milk in the refrigerator).
When should I drink kefir at night or morning?
The best time to drink kefir is on an empty stomach at the start of the day. As a result, it improves gut health and digestion. Moreover, you may also take it at night before bed. Kefir contains tryptophan, an amino acid which can promote better sleep.
What happens to your body when you start drinking kefir?
The bottom line Studies suggest that it boosts your immune system, aids in digestive problems, improves bone health, and may even combat cancer. Get started with kefir today to make the most of this tasty, sour drink.
Does kefir make you poop?
Constipation. Early research shows that taking kefir helps increase the number of bowel movements in people with constipation. It also seems to soften stools.
Which is better kefir or kombucha?
Although kefir and kombucha both contain healthful microbes, kefir is a richer source of lactic acid bacteria (LAB). So you could think of kefir as a drinkable probiotic supplement, and kombucha as more of a digestive aid. Another big difference is that kombucha typically has caffeine, since it's made from tea.
Is kefir good for your liver?
The data demonstrated that kefir improved fatty liver syndrome for body weight, energy expenditure and basal metabolic rate by inhibiting serum glutamate oxaloacetate transaminase and glutamate pyruvate transaminase activities and by decreasing the triglyceride and total cholesterol contents of the liver.
What are the signs you need probiotics?
6 signs you need a probioticYou have allergies and asthma. ... You suffer from one or more mood disorders. ... You've had food poisoning. ... You've taken antibiotics. ... You're always getting sick. ... You suffer from skin conditions such as acne and psoriasis.
Is kefir inflammatory?
Kefir dietaries have anti-inflammatory activity by inhibiting the activity of proinflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β, TNF-α and IL-6. Using kefir (and its byproducts) as an inhibitor of expression of proinflammatory cytokines in COVID-19 patients could be a viable policy.
Does kefir help you sleep?
So, in order to sleep well, you need to consume “tryptophan foods,” so that your body can produce enough serotonin. Goats milk kefir is the very best food supplement choice to help you sleep, as it contains both tryptophan and live bacteria to aid your gut bugs.
How long does it take for kefir to work in the body?
It may take from 2-4 weeks for kefir to improve health. Therefore, one should consume 1-2 cups of kefir every day for best results. However, stop t...
Is kefir better than Greek yoghurt?
Both kefir and Greek yoghurt provide many health benefits. However, kefir contains more protein and probiotics than Greek yoghurt.
Which is better, kombucha or kefir?
Both kefir and kombucha provide many health benefits. However, kefir contains a higher amount of protein and vitamins than kombucha.
What are the benefits of taking kefir?
Consuming kefir has many benefits like improving heart, gut, kidney, liver, and skin health. Also, kefir has shown anti-cancerous, anti-inflammator...
Is kefir anti-inflammatory?
Yes, kefir has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. In addition, probiotics present in kefir can reduce inflammatory cells like eosinophils in th...
Is kefir good for gut health?
Yes, kefir is good for gut health. It is a rich source of probiotics, which aid in digestion and prevent bloating and flatulence. Also, it eliminat...
Is kefir good for your skin?
Yes, kefir is good for the skin because it can help heal scars and blemishes. Kefir contains hyaluronic acid and specific proteins that help wounds...
Is kefir good for your liver?
Yes, kefir is good for your liver. Kefir can decrease the fat deposition around the liver and reduce oxidative stress. Therefore, this can lead to...
Does kefir help you lose weight?
Yes, consuming kefir is a good way for healthy weight loss. Kefir helps regulate the metabolism, reducing excess fat in the body. Also, kefir creat...
Does kefir reduce bloating?
Yes. Since kefir is a rich source of probiotics, it helps strengthen the digestive system. By doing so, it reduces bloating and flatulence.
Health Benefits of Kefir
Kefir is a rich source of probiotics, which help maintain the gut microbiome. Probiotics are healthy bacteria found in certain foods that aid in digestion. Our gut has a specific bacteria microbiome that keeps it healthy.
How to Use Kefir
Consume kefir as a drink. Drinking kefir is the most common way to consume it. Also, you can add it to smoothies and specific recipes as well. For example, we can use kefir to make probiotic ice cream or add it as a substitute for milk in baked goods.
Possible Side Effects and Things to Remember
People with milk allergies should avoid drinking kefir made of cow’s milk. However, they may substitute it with another milk of choice. People who have diabetes should consume kefir without added sugar.
Summary
Kefir contains a lot of nutrients, vitamins, and probiotics. It offers many health benefits like improving heart, gut, kidney, liver, and skin health. In addition, it has anti-cancerous, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial effects. All these properties can offer many health benefits. Kefir can also be used as a face mask to reduce skin blemishes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
A. It may take from 2-4 weeks for kefir to improve health. Therefore, one should consume 1-2 cups of kefir every day for best results. However, stop taking kefir if any of the side effects persist.
What is kefir grain?
The combination of bacteria and yeast is called “kefir grain.”. Kefir grains are not typical grains, such as wheat or rice, and do not contain gluten. Milk is combined with the kefir grains and stored in a warm area to “culture,” producing the kefir beverage. Kefir has a tart and tangy flavor, and a consistency similar to a drinkable yogurt.
How long can you keep kefir?
Once the milk has thickened and has a tangy taste, strain the kefir into a storage container. Cover tightly and store for up to 1 week. There are a few tips to be aware of when making kefir at home: Exposure to metal can weaken the kefir grains, so avoid metal utensils.
How long does kefir last in a glass jar?
Cover the jar with the paper coffee filter and secure with a rubber band. Store the jar in a warm place around 70°F for 12-48 hours, depending on your taste and the warmth of the room.
How many servings of kefir per day?
The participants drank either 2 servings a day of low-fat milk, 4 servings a day of low-fat milk, or 4 servings a day of kefir. After 8 weeks, those who drank kefir showed significant decreases in their total and their “bad cholesterol” levels compared to those who drank only 2 servings per day of low-fat milk.
Why does kefir taste carbonated?
Due to the fermentation process, kefir may taste slightly carbonated. Many of kefir’s health benefits are attributed to its probiotic content. Probiotics, or “good bacteria,” are living organisms that can help maintain regular bowel movements, treat certain digestive conditions, and support the immune system.
Why are probiotics important?
Maintaining a balance between them is an important part of keeping the stomach healthy. Diseases, infections, and some medications, such as antibiotics, can upset this balance. Probiotics are similar to the good bacteria found naturally in the digestive tract and may help maintain a healthy balance.
Where does kefir come from?
It is a fermented milk drink developed in the northern Caucasus Mountains, according to popular belief. The name Kefir comes from the Turkish word keyif, which refers to the “good feeling” a person gets after they have drunk it.
Why is kefir good for you?
Kefir is probiotic milk or water-based drink that can help the consumer in maintaining the balance of friendly bacteria in its gut. This is the main reason why Kefir is used for treating many forms of issues like diarrhea. Probiotics and food containing probiotic are often related to reducing many digestive problems including irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers, and many others.
How many calories are in kefir?
Its nutritional value changes depending on the type and flavor of milk used to make it. 1 Cup of low-fat cow-milk Kefir (no added sugar) contains. Calories: 110. Protein: 11 g (22 % of daily value, or DV) Fat: 2 g fat (3 % of DV) Carbohydrates: 12g (4% of DV)
How to make kefir at home?
All you need is some ingredients and a clean environment to prepare a healthy Kefir. Take a glass jar and mix one glass of milk and 1Tbps of Kefir grains. Cover this jar using paper coffee filters and use a rubber band to securely close the jar.
What is kefir made of?
Kefir that is made from whole-fat milk has high-calcium content. It also contains a bioactive compound that helps the human body to absorb the calcium into its body and fight against bone degeneration. Kefir vitamin K2 that is known for improving bone health, bone density, and calcium-absorbing power.
What are the different types of kefir?
For them, Kefir acts as a powerful pro-biotic drink that comes loaded with tons of nutritional benefits. There are basically 2 types of Kefir available. Milk Kefir and Water Kefir. Milk Kefir is prepared using the milk from cow, goat or sheep.
Where does kefir come from?
Kefir is a fermented milk drink originally derived from the mountains between Asia and Europe. It is almost similar to Yogurt but has tons of health benefits. We have done some research work and compiled a list of benefits that everyone should consider once:
Does kefir help with bone health?
Bone Health is the main concern of people that don’t get enough calcium. Health benefits of kefir include recovery from Osteoporosis too. Osteo porosis is the major problem for many people these days. Calcium is important for bone health. Kefir that is made from whole-fat milk has high-calcium content. It also contains a bioactive compound that helps the human body to absorb the calcium into its body and fight against bone degeneration. Kefir vitamin K2 that is known for improving bone health, bone density, and calcium-absorbing power. Lack of vitamin K in the human body often results in bone issues. Kefir probiotics improve absorption and since it is a dairy product itself, it contains most of the nutrients (phosphorus, Magnesium, calcium, vitamin D and K2)that are required for improving bone health density.
What is kefir made of?
Kefir, pronounced kee-feer, is a drink made from the fermented milk of a cow, goat, or sheep. Water kefir is a similar product, but has a water base instead of milk.
Does kefir help the digestive system?
Digestive Support. Kefir contains tryptophan, an essential amino acid that scientists believe has a relaxing effect on the nervous system, which helps the body with the processes that move food through the digestive tract . Heart Health Benefits.
Is kefir good for you?
Kefir is also an excellent source of the mineral magnesium. Studies have shown that magnesium supports processes like nerve impulses and muscle contraction, and helps to normalize heart rhythm. Kefir contains many beneficial nutrients and supports digestive health because of its high concentration of probiotics.
Is kefir the same as Greek yogurt?
Kefir is often compared to Greek yogurt, and in some ways, the two products are similar. Like Greek yogurt, kefir has a slightly sour flavor and is created through a fermentation process. However, kefir has a thinner consistency than Greek yogurt drinks. Also, kefir and Greek yogurt contain different types of beneficial bacteria.
Can you drink kefir with probiotics?
Scientists continue to study the link between weight loss and probiotics. You can purchase kefir in a number of fruit-flavored varieties, or drink it plain. If you opt for a fruit flavor, pay attention to the sugar content — some brands contain as much added sugar as fruit-flavored yogurts or juice.
Is strawberry kefir good for you?
Nutrition Information. One cup of Nancy’s Strawberry Kefir contains: Kefir is a good source of: Kefir is also an excellent source of the mineral magnesium. Studies have shown that magnesium supports processes like nerve impulses and muscle contraction, and helps to normalize heart rhythm.
Does fermented yogurt lower cholesterol?
Heart Health Benefits. Scientists have found that the “good” bacteria in fermented foods like kefir may support cardiovascular health. Lower Cholesterol. Fermented foods like kefir, yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi contain high concentrations of bacterial probiotics, which may lower your cholesterol level.
What is kefir made of?
Kefir is a fermented milk drink made using starter “grains,” which are actually a combination of bacteria and yeast. Kefir grains interact with milk to make a lightly fermented drink that even people with lactose intolerance can usually drink.
How much potassium is in kefir?
376 milligrams potassium (8 percent DV) Something unique about this beverage that is responsible for many of the health benefits of kefir is its probiotics content. According to a 2019 study, it can contain more than 50 species of probiotic bacteria and yeasts, such as the following types:
What does milk kefir taste like?
Once fermented, milk kefir has a tart taste that’s somewhat similar to the taste of Greek yogurt. How strong the taste is depends on how long the drink has been fermented — a longer fermenting process usually leads to a stronger, tarter taste and even yields some carbonation, which results from the active yeast.
What kind of milk is used in kefir?
This drink can be made using just about any type of milk, such as goat, sheep, cow, soy, rice or coconut milk. It can even be made using coconut water . Scientifically speaking, milk kefir grains contain a complex microbial symbiotic mixture of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts in a polysaccharide–protein matrix.
How many calories are in a cup of kefir?
As an example, one cup of store-bought whole milk kefir contains the following nutrients: 160 calories. 12 grams carbohydrates. 10 grams protein. 8 grams fat.
Is kefir a probiotic?
In a 2015 study published in Frontiers in Microbiology, kefir was recognized as a potential source of probiotics and molecules with several healthy properties. According to the authors, “its biological properties suggest its use as antioxidant, anti-tumor agent, antimicrobial agent, and immunomodulator, among other roles.”
Is kefir a good guy drink?
Types. Risks and Side Effects. Tabbed as an “it” health food of the 21st century, kefir is a probiotic drink that contains many bioactive compounds, including up to 30 different strains of “good guy” bacteria.
How to make kefir at home?
Kefir is simple and easy to make at home – and very cheap! It can be made overnight simply by adding Kefir grains to milk and keeping at room temperature. Kefir can also be made with coconut or even with water & sugar and flavoured to suit your preference.
What is kefir made of?
Kefir tastes quite a lot like a yogurt, but differs in a number of ways. Made from special grains that are made up of bacteria, milk proteins and yeast.
How many bacteria are in kefir?
A small glass of fresh kefir may contain about 30 different strains of bacteria – and up to 1.5 trillion beneficia l bacteria – thats more than 100 times as many as you’d find a probiotic supplement capsule.
Where does kefir come from?
The name Kefir actually comes from the Turkish work “ke if,” which means “good feeling.” However it was not made famous until the 1900’s when a Russian scientist and Nobel Prize winner, Ilya Metchnikoff discovered villagers in the Caucasus Mountains were living much longer and and were much healthier then the rest of the population. What set them apart was their daily consumption of Kefir rich in probiotic bacteria.
Is kefir good for you?
A good source of protein. Kefir improves protein quality of milk, and enhances absorption and digestion – which in turn helps reduce hunger, build muscle mass and improve athletic performance. 12. Improves mood & reduces anxiety.
Is kefir good for lactose intolerant people?
Suitable for lactose intolerant. Kefir can be consumed by lactose intolerant, as both the probiotic bacteria and the fermentation process help digest the lactose. Research has even showed that kefir improves lactose digestion and tolerance in adults with lactose malabsorption. 10. Improves bone density.
Is kefir a natural antibiotic?
Kefir is a natural antibiotic. Lactobacillus kefiri, a unique probiotic found in kefir, has been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as salmonella, h-pylori and e-coli – helping to restore the balance of good bacteria, reduce inflammation, the symptoms of leaky gut and auto-immune diseases. 5.
How long is kefir safe for children?
Stay on the safe side and avoid use. Children: Kefir is POSSIBLY SAFE for children between the ages of 1 and 5 years when taken by mouth for up to 10 days. AIDS and other conditions that weaken the immune system: Kefir contains actively growing bacteria and yeast.
How long is kefir good for?
More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of kefir for these uses. When taken by mouth: Kefir is POSSIBLY SAFE for most adults when taken for up to 12 weeks. Kefir can cause side effects like bloating, nausea, intestinal cramping, and constipation, especially when first started.
What is kefir made of?
Kefir is a probiotic drink made by fermenting milk. Kefir is used for obesity, athletic performance, osteoporosis, high cholesterol, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
Does kefir help with osteoporosis?
Early research shows that taking kefir with calcium does not improve bone strength any more than calcium alone in adults with osteoporosis. A type of inflammatory bowel disease ( ulcerative colitis ). Early research shows that taking kefir does not improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis. Lactose intolerance.
What is the purpose of the CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION?
CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances.
Does Kefir help with menopause?
Symptoms of menopause. Early research shows that taking kefir might help with some symptoms of menopause, especially sleep. A grouping of symptoms that increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and stroke ( metabolic syndrome ).
Does Kefir help with H pylori?
Early research shows that taking kefir along with standard treatment for H. pylori helps get rid of infections in more people than standard treatment alone. High cholesterol. Early research shows that taking kefir does not lower cholesterol levels. Symptoms of menopause.
