Kefir has been around for centuries. It is believed to have been invented in the Balkans thousands of years ago, even though it was not known of around the world. It did not arrive in European countries until about a century ago and has had wavering periods of popularity during its history. However, there are many benefits that can be attained by adding this to your diet. Here you will learn about the most well-known benefits and why it has grown in popularity yet again. You can also visit sites like Live Kefir Company for more kefir information. 

First, it is important to understand exactly what kefir is. It is a milk-based drink that can be made using cow or goats’ milk. It is a fermented drink, meaning that it is given time to allow the yeast and probiotics to multiply. Due to it being fermented it can taste somewhat like alcohol, especially when it is made with water instead of milk and can even contain small amounts of alcohol. If you are allergic to alcohol or wish to abstain from its consumption it is important to know whether the product that you purchase contains any. It also contains mesophilic symbiotic culture, which is also known as kefir grains and other types of bacteria, which are known to be beneficial to the digestive system.

When kefir is made with milk it is much like a yogurt drink and depending on the optional ingredients that can be added, it can be overly sweet and delicious. The original version, however, is more likely to be described as tart. When it is made without milk it is less likely to be sweet, and may be carbonated, which is partly due to the reaction of its ingredients. While it is not particularly tasty, maybe people do enjoy drinking it.

The nutritional content of this drink is remarkably high. It contains calcium, B vitamins, potassium, magnesium and is packed with protein. These are all nutrients that are essential for good health. Calcium helps to maintain bone strength and density, potassium is important for muscle health, the nervous system and maintains the fluid balance in the body. Protein is also important to ensure the health of muscles and plays a role in several metabolic processes. 

B vitamins provide healthy energy, enhance brain function and are critical for countless other processes in the body. Magnesium is yet another essential nutrient in which most people are deficient in. It does not contain a great deal but is worth noting. Many people are deficient in potassium and B vitamins, which makes this drink a great option to supplement anyone’s diet. Kefir that does not contain milk does not have nearly the nutritional benefits but is a great option for those that are lactose intolerant.

Kefir also contains probiotics that provide several benefits. One of the most important of these is that it improves the health of the digestive system. This is because the bacteria help to regulate the levels of other bacteria that is present in the digestive track. This can improve regularity and the consistency of bowel movements. It can also reduce bloating and gas along with other digestive issues. The impact can be so pronounced that those beginning a regimen of kefir are advised to start by only drinking it every other day to transition smoothly into its effects. 

While many people describe kefir as being like yogurt it is far more potent. Yogurt typically contains 3-6 probiotics, depending on the brand. This drink, however, can contain up to 61 different types of bacteria. This means that it delivers are far more beneficial punch to the digestive system. Interestingly, it also has antibacterial qualities. Research shows that those that consume this drink on a regular basis are less prone to a wide range of infections. 

Some studies also show that it may protect people from the risk of developing cancer. Cancer essentially is the uncontrolled multiplication of damaged cells in the body. This can lead to tumors and other issues. The body’s immune system is what can stop this from occurring and the probiotics found in the drink help to stimulate the immune system. This also means that those that consume this drink are less likely to be susceptible to the flu and other viruses.

There are many other benefits that are derived from consuming kefir on a regular basis that have been confirmed by several scientific studies. Therefore, the drink has yet again seen a growth in its popularity. If you have not yet given this drink a try now is the time to do so. It can be purchased in many health foods stores and even some grocery stores. If you are so inclined, you can even make your own at home with the help of instructions that can be found online.