Kefir

By: Nikki Nies 

Kefir, a fermented milk drink made of fermenting milk with kefir grains,polysacharides and  yeast, impacts the way foods are digested.  While it’s not commonly found in your local Dollar Store, kefir is worth the investment. Cultured milk products have been around for more decades than can be counted, yet asking someone to ask about some of the health benefits of kefir, is not always easy.

Probiotics are found in foods such as yogurt and may be found in some dietary supplements.

Health benefits of kefir:

• May help treat diarrhea, esp. if antibiotics have been recently used
• Treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Prevent or treat eczema
• Prevent or reduce the severity of colds
• Contains lactobaccilus caucasus, leuconostoc, Acetobacter species, Streptococcus species, Saccharomyces kefir and Torula kefir–which are beneficial bacteria that help with digestive health and prevent the growth of harmful microorganisms
• Can help facilitate the production of vitamin K and B12 in the gut
• Through the fermenting process of kefir, it’s lactose free

One cup of kefir provides 8-11 g of protein.  It also provides 10% of the day’s recommended vitamin A content and 25% of the day’s vitamin D. Based on a 2,000 calorie diet, kefir provides 30% of the day’s calcium needs.

While probiotics aren’t a required food item to maintain one’s health, consumption of these microorganisms can aid in digestion and provide protection from harmful bacteria.  While none of the health claims for kefir have not been scientifically proven, how can you not deny the great nutrients! Some have complained that use of kefir can lead to intestinal cramping and/or constipation with initial use. 

Sources: http://www.kefir.net/

http://www.emedicinehealth.com/kefir-page2/vitamins-supplements.htm

http://www.lifeway.net/LifewayWorld/KefirProbiotics/Kefir.aspx

http://www.livestrong.com/article/449940-what-are-the-benefits-of-kefir/

http://www.wegmans.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductDisplay?productId=728420&storeId=10052&langId=-1

http://www.lifeway.net/LifewayWorld/OurStory.aspx

http://www.oprah.com/health/Yogurt-and-Kefir-Dr-Perricones-No-10-Superfood

http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-living/consumer-health/expert-answers/probiotics/faq-20058065