Kefir is considered particularly healthy and supports digestion as well as the immune system. In the Caucasus, its homeland, kefir is called the “drink of the centenarians” because of its positive effects. But what accounts for its effect? What is kefir anyway and what ingredients does this drink have? Learn everything you need to know about kefir here.
What is kefir?
Kefir is a sour milk drink that is produced when milk is fermented in combination with kefir fungi. It was originally made from mare’s milk, but today cow’s milk is usually used. The viscous drink tastes similar to sour buttermilk, but contains carbon dioxide and therefore fizzes easily. Depending on the production process, kefir has a low alcohol content. In addition to milk kefir, there is also water kefir, which is made with the help of a sugary water solution and is similar to kombucha.
What are kefir mushrooms?
The kefir fungi used to make the dairy drink, often referred to as kefir tubers, are a mixture of yeasts and bacteria. These cause fermentation, converting milk sugar (lactose) into lactic acid, alcohol and carbon dioxide. Kefir mushrooms are available at health food stores and can be used multiple times. You can also buy kefir tubers online now.
Healthy effect of kefir
Kefir is considered very healthy because it stimulates intestinal activity and has numerous nutrients. But its effects are 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, as well as the thyroid gland.
- Kefir is also popular because of the probiotics it contains. Unlike other dairy products, such as yogurt or buttermilk, traditional kefir contains yeasts 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 defenses.
- Skim milk kefir is rich in protein, satiating, has little fat and hardly any calories. Therefore, it is 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 energy metabolism and can thus support weight loss.
- Kefir is also said to help 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.
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 uncritical as long as the drinks are consumed in moderation. Pregnant women are often 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 milk and a kefir mushroom ferment for up to two days in an airtight, room-warm and dark place. After that, the mass is strained to remove the kefir fungus again. All types of milk are suitable for kefir production – whether cow’s, sheep’s or goat’s milk. A higher fat content makes the drink creamier, and organic milk provides additional nutrients. For hygienic reasons, fresh milk should be boiled beforehand or UHT milk should be used, otherwise the kefir culture could be contaminated with germs.
Buy kefir or make it yourself?
Kefir that can be bought in stores under the name “mild kefir” differs from homemade kefir in the production process. In industrially produced kefir, bacteria and yeasts are used instead of kefir fungi. As a result, not only does the taste change, there is also no alcohol, but lactose is present. Traditional kefir, on the other hand, contains alcohol, but is almost lactose-free and therefore more suitable for people with lactose intolerance. Traditional kefir is also believed to preserve more health-promoting nutrients.
Tips for enjoying kefir the right way
Kefir is not only a refreshing drink. It is also used in numerous recipes for baking and cooking. Kefir fans should not overdo it, however: Despite its positive effects, too much kefir can be unhealthy.A permanent intake of large amounts of lactic acid bacteria can be detrimental to health, as the natural balance of the intestinal flora can be compromised. About 0.5 to 1 liter of kefir a day is recommended – this amount is healthy and supports the immune system.
