Why kefir is so healthy

Kefir is considered to be particularly healthy and supports digestion and the immune system. In the Caucasus, his homeland, kefir is called the “drink of centenarians” because of its positive effects. But what is its effect? What is kefir and what ingredients does this drink contain? Find out everything you need to know about kefir here.

What is kefir?

Kefir is a  sour milk drink  that is created during the fermentation of  milk  in conjunction with kefir fungi. Originally it was made from mare’s milk, today mostly cow’s milk is used. The thick drink tastes similarly sour to  buttermilk , but contains carbon dioxide and is therefore slightly fizzy.

Depending on the manufacturing process, kefir has a low alcohol content. In addition to milk kefir, there is also  water kefir,  which is made using a sugary water solution and is similar to kombucha.

What are kefir mushrooms?

The kefir fungi used to make the milk drink, often referred to as kefir grains, are a mixture of yeast and bacteria. These cause fermentation, in which milk sugar (lactose) is converted into lactic acid, alcohol and carbonic acid.

Kefir mushrooms are available at health food stores and can be used multiple times. You can now also buy kefir grains online.

Healthy effects of kefir

Kefir is considered very healthy because it stimulates intestinal activity and   has numerous nutrients . But its effect is even more diverse:

• Kefir contains a lot of protein, vitamins A and D, B vitamins and  folic acid . It also provides calcium, magnesium,  iron  and  iodine . These are important for bones and teeth, muscles, nerves and the thyroid gland.
• Kefir is also popular because of the probiotics it contains .  In contrast to other dairy products such as yoghurt or buttermilk, traditional kefir  also contains yeast and acetic acid bacteria in addition to  lactic acid bacteria. In the large intestine, these microorganisms support the intestinal flora, eliminate pathogens and thus strengthen the immune system. 
• Skimmed milk kefir is high in protein, filling, has little fat and hardly any calories.  It is therefore often used in  diets – for example in shakes, with fresh fruit or pureed vegetables. At the same time, a healthy intestinal flora has a positive effect on the energy metabolism and can thus support weight loss.
• Kefir is also said to help you have beautiful skin – not only because an intact intestinal flora plays an important role in the fight against  pimples  and blackheads. Kefir is also used in cleansing and moisturizing face masks.

In addition, kefir is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect, lower blood pressure and protect the intestines from diseases.

Kefir in pregnancy

Due to the fermentation process, traditional kefir has an alcohol content of 0.3 to 2 percent. Similar to non-alcoholic beer or fruit juices, this amount is considered non-critical as long as the drinks are consumed in moderation.

Often pregnant women are even recommended to drink a glass of kefir every day because of its high folic acid content. The vitamin supports cell development, which is why it is needed more during pregnancy.

Production of kefir

If you want to make kefir yourself, you have to let the milk and a kefir mushroom ferment in an airtight, room-temperature and dark place for up to two days. The mass is then strained to remove the kefir fungus.

All types of milk are suitable for making kefir   – whether cow’s, sheep’s or goat’s milk. A higher fat content makes the drink creamier, organic milk provides additional nutrients. For reasons of hygiene, fresh milk should be boiled beforehand or UHT milk should be used, otherwise the kefir culture could be contaminated with germs.

By the way: Alternatively, kefir can also be made without grains from high-quality, purchased kefir.

Buy kefir or make it yourself?

The kefir sold under the name “mild kefir” differs in the manufacturing process from home-made kefir. In the case of  industrially produced kefir,  bacteria and yeast are used instead of kefir fungi. As a result, not only does the taste change, it also contains no alcohol, but lactose.

Traditional kefir, on the other hand, contains alcohol, but is almost lactose-free and therefore   better suited for people with a lactose intolerance . It is believed that traditional kefir also contains more health-promoting nutrients.

Tips on how to enjoy kefir properly

Kefir is not just a refreshing drink. It is also used in numerous recipes for baking and cooking.

However, kefir fans should not overdo it: Despite its positive effect,  too much kefir can  be unhealthy. Long-term intake of large amounts of lactic acid bacteria can be harmful to health, since the natural balance of the intestinal flora can be endangered. About 0.5 to 1 liter of kefir a day is recommended – this amount is healthy and supports the immune system.