There is a reason probiotics have gained so much popularity recently. They are extremely important for a healthy gut, which we are learning more and more effects virtually everything else about our health. Fermented foods and drinks that used to be “weird” like kombucha and sauerkraut are now “trendy” because of their health benefits. Kefir is another awesome source of probiotics and tastes similar to very runny yogurt. So if you’re looking to add more fermented foods and drinks to your diet, check out these impressive benefits of kefir.
What is Kefir?
Kefir is a cultured dairy product that has been used over the centuries and throughout the world because of its numerous benefits and the variety of conditions its been known to treat. Today, kefir is most often consumed because of its rich probiotic content and its ability to heal even the most intense and most common digestive issues like leaky gut.
What Does it Taste Like?
Kefir can be one of those foods that takes some getting used to. Most people describe the texture of kefir like runny yogurt. You know those heinous pre-made drinkable yogurt pouches that are marketed to kids? It’s similar to those in texture (but of course without the nasty ingredients). The flavor is pretty simple and nonexistent, much like plain yogurt. There are a variety of ways to make kefir with different textures and flavors to make it more exciting (more on that below).
Benefits of Kefir
Kefir is high in magnesium, Vitamin B12, enzymes, folate, Vitamin K2, biotin, and calcium. It is also one of the most probiotic-rich foods to consume. Because of this, kefir has been studied and scientifically proven to help with the following:
Boosts Immune System
This is perhaps the most obvious and significant benefit of kefir because of its glaring probiotic content. Since the vast majority of our immune system is located in our guts, balancing good gut bacteria is key in resisting illness and diseases and overcoming it.
Improves Allergies
Kefir has been studied and found to suppress the inflammation markers associated with allergies and even asthma. If you suffer seasonal or more severe allergies, kefir might be worth a try.
Supports Digestion
Thanks to the probiotics found in kefir, it has been known to reverse IBS and other digestion-related conditions. It has also been known to aid in weight loss for this reason.
Helps Body Detoxify
Kefir is also rich in lactic acid bacteria, which is responsible for binding and eliminating harmful toxins and funguses within the body. Most of us have some level of food-born toxicity in our bodies, and kefir can be a significant help in recovery.
Builds Denser Bones
We all know that calcium plays a major role in building strong bones. But did you know that calcium cannot be absorbed properly without sufficient levels of magnesium? Because of kefir’s high calcium and magnesium content (as well as vitamins D and K2), it is a powerful way to build bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
Kefir Recipes
This recipe is our go-to when making traditional milk kefir but are wanting some flavor variety.
One of the most popular ways to consume kefir is by making water kefir. Here is a fantastic and easy-to-understand recipe.
Cinnamon coconut water kefir is another favorite in our household, as is cream soda water kefir.
You can also make kefir using coconut milk if you wish to avoid dairy.
Have you ever made your own kefir? Which variation would you try?
Leave a Reply