Kefir Health Benefits

Kefir is the name of a drink, which is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains. This fermented milk drink was originated in the Caucasus region. The word, 'kefir', however, came from two Persian words, 'kef', which meas foam, and 'shir', which means milk. Kefir grains are used in the preparation of this fermented milk drink which contains a mixture of bacteria or microorganisms and yeasts, and polysaccharides, proteins and lipids. These grains closely resemble the shape of cauliflower, and are considered as an excellent source of beneficial bacteria or probiotics. Due to the numerous kefir health benefits, and its unique microbiology, this fermented milk drink is considered as a miracle drink.

How to Make Kefir
Production of kefir requires the adding live kefir grains into the milk. While fermenting the milk, the kefir grains grow, and propagate new grains. Usually, milk of cow, sheep and goat are used to make kefir. However, milk can be replaced by its common substitutes like coconut milk, rice milk and soy milk to prepare kefir. Kefir can also ferment fruit juice, coconut water and beer wort. Traditionally, it is prepared in skin bag, which is stirred from time to time to ensure that the milk and the kefir grains mix properly. Fermentation of milk or its substitutes will ultimately, produce a yogurt like, sour and slightly alcoholic beverage. The fermented liquid is then separated from the kefir grains, with the help of a strainer to get the kefir drink.

Kefir Health Benefits
Kefir health benefits are numerous, which can be mainly attributed to the large number of beneficial microorganisms found in kefir grains. These beneficial microorganisms can play a vital role in improving general health and well-being of an individual, by promoting digestive health. Kefir can also provide some important vitamins and amino acids. A few of the most important health benefits of kefir are:

• Kefir has antibiotic and antifungal properties. It can prove helpful in conditions like, candidiasis (yeast infection), heart disease and HIV/ AIDS.
• Kefir can provide us the beneficial microorganisms that can improve digestion, to alleviate some common digestive problems like gas, bloating, indigestion, etc. It can ensure regular bowel movement to cure constipation. The enzymes found in it can be especially beneficial for the people with lactose intolerance.
• Apart from the beneficial microorganisms, kefir can provide many essential vitamins and minerals. It is a rich source of vitamin A, B2, B12, K and D. The most important minerals found in kefir are, calcium, phosphorus and magnesium.
• Kefir can cleanse the colon and address any kind of intestinal problem. It can provide relief in inflammatory bowel disease as well.
• Kefir can treat a number of health conditions like gastritis, pancreatitis, eczema, stomach ulcers, psoriasis, rheumatism, arthritis and gout, osteoporosis, anemia and leaky gut syndrome, to name a few.
• Kefir has a stimulating effect on the immune system and hence, can improve its disease fighting capacity.
• Kefir can reduce the risk for certain cancers including, colon cancer, by preventing the growth of cancerous cells.
• Kefir can also calm the nerves of our body, to maintain a healthy nervous system. This property of kefir is due to the presence of the amino acid, 'tryptophan'.
• Kefir has antioxidants and anti-aging properties. It can neutralize the free radicals, that damage the body cells and tissues by oxidizing them. By reducing the impact of free radical damage, kefir can slow down the aging process.
• Apart from these, other kefir health benefits include curing or controlling acne, sleep disorders, depression, asthma, bronchitis, hypertension, diabetes, chronic fatigue syndrome, allergies, colitis, diarrhea, etc.

Kefir is quite easily digestible, and can be taken by children as well. It is a complete source of protein, with so many essential amino acids. To sum up, kefir is a great food that can detoxify the body, and improve the functions of the different body systems to promote health and vigor. It can also help in losing weight. Considering all the kefir health benefits, it can be concluded that introducing kefir to our diet is an excellent idea to live a healthy life.