Krazy for Kefir

I’d like to dedicate this post to my brother, Lawrence, who encouraged me to try Kefir and well, the rest is history!

Recently, I’ve gotten some questions and comments regarding my latest addiction–Kefir. To tell you the truth, I didn’t know much about the product until researching it to post on here–I simply liked the taste! However, finding out all of it’s health benefits has simply encouraged me to drink it s’more, if that’s even possible!

First things first, I’m not exactly sure how to pronounce it. All along, I’ve been pronouncing it KEE-fir….like Keifer Sutherland. Some people pronounce it keh-FEAR. Who knows…it’s amazing either way and it’s NOTHING to fear

What is it?

Kefir is a fermented milk product (sounds funky but so are yogurt and cheese!) that originated from the Caucasus Mountains many centuries ago. It is made by adding milk to kefir grains, composed of bacteria and yeast.

Kefir grains (Source)

What does it taste like?

The taste and texture of kefir resemble drinkable yogurt. It’s natural flavor is tart, however, it can be sweetened by adding honey, fruit, stevia and/or other sweeteners. You can also purchase kefir already sweetened.

Health Benefits:

Aids digestion and cleanses the intestinal tract: Kefir contains many different strains of beneficial bacteria and yeast, not commonly found in yogurt, that promote a healthy digestive system. Thus, it is considered a probiotic beverage. Lifeway (the brand shown in the photo below) contains 10 probiotic cultures, five times the amount found in most yogurts. ‘It also helps to colonize the intestinal bacteria and contains good yeasts that help to penetrate the intestinal wall. This penetration not only eliminates any so-called “bad yeasts” present, but also guards against parasites and helps to promote good digestion.’ It is easily digestible so it is great for those with digestive disorders although it can be beneficial for everyone (Source).

Calming effect: Kefir contains an essential amino acid, tryptophan, that has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. This can help with anxiety, ADHD, and sleep disorders (Source). If you have trouble falling asleep, it may help to drink some kefir before bed.

You can make your own kefir by purchasing grains online and fermenting it with milk, soy milk, or even water. I’ve been looking into doing this because I’m drinking it in rather large quantities nowadays So far, I’ve enjoyed it in my smoothies, with cereal and all by itself!

Tagged as: Kefir