What is kefir?
Some of you may not know it. Kefir is a fermented milk drink (usually cow’s, sheep’s or goat’s milk) where kefir grains – a starter culture of yeast & lactic acid – are added to milk. Over time, these grains ferment turning the milk into kefir. The grains can be re-used again & you can find easy ways to make it yourself by checking videos on the internet.
Kefir has a sour taste and is rich in nutrient (protein, healthy fat & carbs, vitamin B2 & 12, K2, D, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus) & probiotics, especially Lactobacillus kefiri.
What are the health benefits of kefir?
- Gut health especially digestive complaints by supporting the microbiome
- Weight management
- Mental health
- Heart health
- Immune health (anti-bacterial & anti-inflammatory)
- Reduces allergic reactions
- Bone health (reducing the risk of osteoporosis)
What kefir should I choose?
Kefir exists in dairy-free versions, usually made with coconut water, coconut milk or other sweet liquids but bear in mind these do not have the same nutrient status as a dairy version.
Kefir can be an option for some people who are lactose intolerant as kefir turns the lactose present in dairy food into lactic acid & also contains enzymes that break down the lactose. This will be individual dependent though so be mindful.
If shop-bought, be sure to check the sugar content as some of them can be as high as sweet drinks, which would obviously defeat its health benefits!
For me, I just love it! I have it with my homemade breakfast cereal mix and I love the fact that it is not sweet but slightly sour & thicker than milk. You can also serve it with a bowl of red fruits or as the liquid part in a smoothie.
What about you? Do you enjoy kefir? How do you use it? Share share share so we can learn from each other 🙂
👉 I am passionate about food & health and you can find more ingredients’ info, recipes and nutrition info on my website or feel free to contact me on 07788 444 199 / info@biovitalnutrition.com