Unfortunately, I find more and more cases when consulting people with gastrointestinal symptoms but without a clear diagnosis. At this point, foods that can help the microorganisms in our gut are more popular than ever.
Among these foods that can help our microorganisms are probiotics, and in them we find kefir. Today we can find it easily in any supermarket at a very reasonable price. It's worth it, isn't it?
What is kefir?
Kefir is a fermented milk drink produced by fermenting milk with kefir cultures (few grains), which contain beneficial bacteria and yeasts. During this fermentation, microorganisms convert sugars naturally present in milk into lactic acid.
Because of this acid, kefir is a slightly acidic drink with a unique and refreshing taste. The nutritional content of this drink depends on the composition of the milk and grains used, the fermentation process and storage conditions.
It is important to differentiate between kefir and yogurt, because they are not the same thing. Yogurt starts from acidic fermentation and kefir from acidic-alcoholic fermentation. It's similar, but not the same.
The 6 reasons why I recommend kefir as a nutritionist
As I told you, the grains from which this fermented drink is made contain a complex mixture of bacteria and yeasts. We find in this drink minerals, sugars, carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, catechins, vanillin… and other substances.
You will see that it is a very complete drink and contains many ingredients that play different roles in our bodies.
- Source of probiotics: It contains a large amount of these microorganisms. These can benefit our gut health and strengthen our immune system.
- Improving digestive health: As I mentioned, these probiotics help maintain the balance of intestinal bacteria, improving digestion and alleviating potential gastrointestinal symptoms associated with diseases.
- Strengthens the immune system: It can help fight infections and diseases.
- It contains essential nutrients: As I told you, it contains a lot of essential nutrients.
- Improves digestion and lactose tolerance: This fact will be especially important in people with lactose intolerance.
- Reduces cholesterol
How can I incorporate kefir into my diet?
Well, fortunately nowadays, it's pretty easy. We can find it in almost all supermarkets with an average price of 1.5 to 3 euros. Because it looks very similar to yogurt, its uses are similar:
- Like a refreshing drink
- Mix it in a bowl with fruit and/or grains
- Use it in preparing juice
- Add it to recipes such as crepes, gingerbread, bread…
“Infuriatingly humble social media buff. Twitter advocate. Writer. Internet nerd.”
