by Karen Smith What is Kefir? Kefir, pronounced “Kee-fur” or “Kuh-feer” is a fermented, enzyme-rich beverage that’s filled with friendly bacteria, known as probiotics. The word kefir is derived from the Turkish word “keif,” which means “good feeling.” Probiotics are live microorganisms, such as bacteria or yeast, which provide health benefits to the host when consumed. Probiotics is derived from the Greek language meaning “pro life.” Kefir is like a drinkable yogurt—but far more nutritious—with a tangy, slightly fizzy taste. It can be made with all kinds of milk—dairy or non-dairy. Kefir has been around for hundreds of years and has many preventive and curative properties. Kefir is rich in calcium, Vitamin B12, magnesium, folate, protein, and enzymes. A large amount of good bacteria populate the milk causing harmful bacteria to be suppressed. The kefir microbes consume sugars as food, causing the milk to become sour, but in turn creating a health-filled beverage teeming with life. Kefir Benefits Kefir, as already stated above, has many benefits that are both curative and preventive. It has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. It affects many body systems and is known to treat numerous disorders:
Types of Kefir Milk Kefir vs. Water Kefir Kefir “grains” are actually not grains at all but are so called because of their appearance. Kefir grains are used to make both milk kefir and water kefir. Milk kefir grains have a creamy, cauliflower-like appearance. The grains “eat” the milk sugars (lactose) out of the milk, which may make this a perfect drink for the lactose intolerant. Cow milk is commonly used in kefir but other sources can be used as well, such as goat or sheep. Coconut milk, nut and seed milks may also be used for those who prefer a non-dairy option. Water kefir grains look like translucent crystals and are placed in sugar water. It can be made from organic sugar or coconut water. The end flavor of your water kefir will be largely determined by the type of sugar you use. Water kefir has a sweeter taste, but the longer it ferments the less sugar remains. Water kefir is also another non-dairy option. It has a lighter texture How to Make Milk Kefir
How to Make Water Kefir
Tips for Handling Kefir
Note: If you choose to purchase commercial kefir products, look for a high-quality brand that is preferably organic and low in sugar. Remember that they usually contain added sweeteners and/or other additives and may lack in the quantity of bacterial strains available. Always check the label. Sources Do you drink kefir? What benefits have you experienced from it?
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About UsHi! We're Mario and Karen, the "sunshine couple". We love each other and actually like each other too. As health enthusiasts, we share our experiences as it relates to culture, health, and faith. We hope that you are encouraged in making positive lifestyle choices for a healthier body, mind, and spirit. Archives
March 2023
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