Kefir has numerous health benefits, including lowering cholesterol, improving digestive health, and managing blood sugar levels. So, exactly what is this product? Peruse on to find out.
What is kefir?
Kefir, a staple fermented milk product touted for its remarkable health benefits, is extremely popular.
It is basically milk and kefir grains mixed together, and it has yeast and live bacteria in it. Kefir, which is rich in probiotics and other necessary nutrients, has become extremely popular, particularly among fitness and health enthusiasts.
In point of fact, kefir is regarded by many individuals as even more healthy and beneficial than yogurt. Peruse on to figure out what helps this nutritious matured milk item offers.
The best thing about kefir is that it can be easily made by adding cultures of yeast and bacteria to milk. The yeast and bacteria feed on the milk’s natural sugar and grow, resulting in the fermented beverage. Kefir has a tangy flavor and is similar in consistency to yogurt. In any case, because of the maturation, it might taste carbonated.
Kefir’s top health benefits:
Is it good for you? Indeed, it’s very nutritious and solid and can offer a few extraordinary benefits. Six of them are as follows:
Extremely nutritious –
One cup of kefir contains:
- Calcium- 24% of the daily value
- Protein – 8-9 grams
- Vitamin B12 – 29% of the daily value
- Phosphorous – 20% of the daily value
Moreover, kefir contains magnesium, vitamin D, healthy fats and a variety of bioactive compounds.
Controls sugar level –
One of the most eminent benefits of kefir is its capacity to control glucose level. It has been shown in studies to significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels and regulate diabetes-related markers.
Has antibacterial properties –
Kefir’s health benefits include protecting the body from infections as well. Probiotics known to fight infections, such as Lactobacillus kefiri, may be present in kefir, according to studies.
This probiotic is thought to stop harmful bacteria like E. coli, salmonella, and helicobacter pylori from growing in the body.
Improves digestion and promotes –
Gut health are two of the many advantages of drinking kefir. The probiotics in kefir assist with keeping up with the stomach microbiome and furthermore take out cancer-causing agents and mutagens.
Creature investigations have discovered that kefir might possibly further develop creation of good microbes in the stomach and get it far from issues like swelling and gas.
Helps keep bones strong –
Kefir’s health benefits also include keeping bones strong and healthy. Kefir is plentiful in calcium, phosphorous, vitamin D, vitamin K and magnesium, which are immensely significant for bone wellbeing.
It’s said that consuming kefir can assist with forestalling bone-related issues and keep up with versatility and adaptability in later years.
Beneficial for the liver –
Kefir also has powerful health benefits, including improving liver health. Studies propose that kefir lessens greasy liver condition and advances solid working of this key organ.
It can also promote lipid metabolism while lowering cholesterol and reducing triglyceride deposition in the liver.
How to make kefir at home? Required ingredients:
A jar of active kefir grains, milk (goat, cow, or coconut milk), a mesh strainer, cheesecloth or coffee filters, and a pulverizer For every cup of milk, add a few cups of milk and one tablespoon of kefir grains. Leave some space at the highest point of the container, as the blend will extend.
Cover the container with cheesecloth or espresso channel, and secure the top. Store it in a warm spot for no less than 15 to 48 hours. Keep the jar out of direct sunlight. As the blend begins to isolate, shake the container a couple of times.
Strain the mixture into another container once it has thickened and cover it tightly. The mixture can be kept in the refrigerator for up to a week.
How is kefir consumed?
Kefir can be drunk similarly as yogurt or milk. It can be added to smoothies, poured over cereal and oats, or eaten with fresh, seasonal fruits.
Kefir has many benefits and can be a healthy addition to your diet. However, keep in mind that its high probiotic content can initially cause gas or bloating. Therefore, enjoy this nutritious milk product in moderation to ensure your safety.
