Kefir is a popular natural probiotic that has been used for centuries due to its many health benefits. And, although it has been known for centuries, relatively recently it started to become popular worldwide. If you also take it, or if you want to start including it in your diet, here we tell you all the benefits and properties of kefir.
Kefir is a group of bacteria and yeasts that live together forming a colony. It is white and granular, with a somewhat gelatinous texture, which feeds on certain components of milk. As a result, a lactose-free fermented drink with a multitude of benefits for our health.
This drink can be taken as it is, let the kefir thicken it a little more and take it as yogurt, even use it for a multitude of recipes of all kinds. For example, smoothies, like this healthy and delicious Kiwi and Kefir Smoothie. We can also use it to make biscuits, cakes, sauces…
Did you know that in ancient times, giving kefir as a gift was like giving a blessing?
Benefits and properties of kefir
If you already take kefir on a regular basis, or you want to include it in your diet, you will know that it has a multitude of properties. Let’s take a look at them.
- One of the great benefits of kefir is its contribution of natural probiotics. These are very beneficial microorganisms for the intestine; which help to balance the intestinal flora, improve digestion, strengthen the immune system…
- Thanks to these probiotics and other compounds such as biotin or folate, kefir improves our immune system. So it is more complicated for us to get sick.
- It lowers cholesterol and blood pressure due to the probiotics, the lactic acid it produces in the milk, and the bioactive peptides it contains. But, on the other hand, drinking kefir both at breakfast and at snack time, helps us to replace other less healthy foods with kefir.
- Another benefit of kefir is that it strengthens our bone system. In addition to the calcium that milk provides, kefir also has bioactive compounds that help our body to absorb calcium correctly. Its vitamin K2 content also improves our bones and their density.
- In general, the probiotics in kefir help the absorption of the rest of the nutrients in milk, such as phosphorus, magnesium and vitamin D, to be better absorbed. But it will also improve the absorption of nutrients from other foods.
According to a study conducted at McGill University, Canada, kefir was able to reduce cancer cells by 56% in an in vitro test.
- Many studies claim that regular consumption of kefir can help reduce the risk of cancer. Because its compounds kill stomach cancer cells. According to a study conducted at McGill University, Canada, through an in vitro test, which managed to reduce cancer cells by 56%.Helps with allergies. Many allergies and respiratory problems are related to inflammatory problems in the body. And kefir, being anti-inflammatory, relieves these problems and their symptoms.Improves the skin. Our skin reflects any problem in our body. And as kefir helps our intestinal flora to have an optimal balance; this is also reflected in the skin.So it is a great ally if we suffer from acne, psoriasis or eczema. But it has also been shown that kefir carbohydrates improve wound healing and can protect connective tissue.Improves symptoms of dairy intolerance. Kefir helps break down lactose, making it easier to digest.
Possible contraindications
Although many studies support and demonstrate these benefits, and many doctors confirm them, kefir may also have some contraindications. For, like any other food, it suits each person in a different way.
- Some people may suffer from allergy or intolerance to this product. Therefore, if you notice any discomfort, discomfort, skin rashes, or even difficulty breathing, stop taking it immediately and consult your doctor.
- People taking immunosuppressive drugs or those with immune disorders should also be careful with products such as kefir. The microorganisms present in kefir may present a risk of infection in these people.
- And finally, anyone suffering from gastrointestinal diseases should also take kefir in moderation, as kefir can worsen the discomfort of these diseases.
But, as we said, these are rare cases. Even so, it is recommended to include kefir little by little. It is preferable to start taking it one day, one day not, and check that it is good for you before including it in your diet on a daily basis.
And with this we finish seeing the benefits and properties of kefir. If you liked it, remember to leave us your comments, ideas, tips… We love to read you! You can also follow us on social networks to keep up to date with all our publications. You can find us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram.
