Kefir, which is accepted as the youth secret of the Caucasus and the elixir of long and healthy life, is the number one shield of the immune system that falls in the winter months.
Kefir, which helps to strengthen the body’s immune system thanks to the probiotics in its content, namely “friendly bacteria”, is obtained as a result of fermenting milk with kefir grains. Kefir yeast is whitish in color, reminiscent of cauliflower, and consists of grains the size of a pea or hazelnut.
Kefir, which is based on the communities living in the Caucasus Mountains and is consumed in many countries of the world today, is briefly fermented milk. In some sources, it is stated that the name “kefir” is derived from the Turkish “keyif” leather. Kefir can be prepared from cow, sheep and goat milk. It tastes slightly sour as it has gone through the fermentation process. The difference from milk is that it contains more bacteria than milk, which is called “good” and helps digestion, and provides a bowel movement in a short time. At the same time, it is a very strong drink in terms of many vitamins and minerals that are known to contribute to general health.
- What are the Benefits of Kefir?
Being rich in bacteria (lactobacilli) that help digestion, kefir is an ideal drink for those with digestive problems, constipation and indigestion. The difference from milk is that it contains more probiotics and can be consumed by those with lactose intolerance. It strengthens the immune system, helps to clean the bacteria and microbes present in the digestive system, kills the bacteria called “helicobacter pylori” that causes stomach ulcers and has antibiotic properties. Vitamins B12, B1, biotin and K in kefir contribute to general health. With its high calcium and magnesium content, it protects bone health and helps prevent bone loss.
- Kefir and Immune System
Some components in kefir play a valuable role in the regulation of the immune system. Therefore, it is sufficient for various allergies caused by immune system problems and generally prevents inflammation. Studies have shown that the bacteria in kefir suppress the production of “IgE”, which causes allergic reactions in the body.
According to another study on the benefits of kefir, consuming kefir regularly prevents tumor development, and with this feature, it is shown in the middle of foods that can be used to stop the progression of cancer.
- Nutritional Value of Kefir
1 glass of kefir is about 150 calories and contains 8 grams of fat, 30 grams of cholesterol and 12 grams of carbohydrates. One glass of kefir, which is quite rich in protein, contains 8-11 grams of protein. By drinking 1 glass of kefir, you can get 10% of your daily vitamin A requirement, 30% of your calcium requirement and 4% of your vitamin C requirement. A full measure of kefir contains 125 mg of sodium, 350 mg of potassium and 4 grams of sugar.
- What’s the Difference Between Kefir and Yogurt?
Kefir and yogurt, both prepared with fermented milk, are similar in appearance. The difference in the middle of both works is that one helps in the production of probiotics and the other is a probiotic himself. In other words, while yogurt contributes to the production of probiotics with its components, kefir directly contains these microorganisms. With this feature, it offers a faster solution to digestive problems. Also, kefir contains bacteria such as lactobacillus caucasus, leuconostoc, acetobacter and streptococcus, in addition to bifidobacteria and lactobacilli, which are “good bacteria”.
- How should we consume?
You can easily drink a glass of kefir a day, which is protective against many diseases, especially cancer. You can leaven from the yeast at home or you can choose the plain types sold in the markets. If the sour taste bothers you, you can easily consume it by blending it with your favorite fruit and 1 teaspoon of vanilla. You can even add 4 tablespoons of oats and 10 almonds to this mixture for your breakfast. This mixture can also be a suitable sahur meal alternative, especially during the month of Ramadan.
