What is Kefir and Why is it Better than Yogurt?

June 3, 2017 admin

Kefir (pronounced “kee-fer”) is a yogurt-like, cultured milk product and no relation to your favorite badass actor, and former “24” star, Kiefer Sutherland. This fermented milk drink originated in the north Caucasus Mountains region and its popularity has spread significantly over the past few decades. Traditional kefir use to be made and stored in goatskin bags and then hung near a doorway where it would be jostled by any person passing through. This primitive, yet ingenious, method of storage would keep the young kefir well mixed but also safe from the elements.

The process of making kefir is quite simple and one can easily make kefir at home with minimal effort. The finished “kefir product” is a slightly thinner, yet delicious, yogurt-like substance. Like yogurt, kefir is somewhat tart and tangy. Unlike yogurt, kefir takes six times longer to ferment (14-18 hours vs. 2.5-3 hours). However, it is this extended fermentation that gives kefir the “upper hand” in terms of benefits when compared to your everyday yogurt.

Kefir and Yogurt: Similar but Different

Kefir and yogurt are both cultured milk products
They are both rich in protein, calcium, B vitamins and potassium
They have a similar tart, slightly sour taste but can be flavored or mixed with fruit
They both help improve lactose digestion because the live cultures used to make them help break down milk sugars

This is where the similarities between kefir and yogurt end. It is also where kefir, and its benefits, over normal yogurt become very clear.

Amazing Benefits of Kefir over Normal Yogurt

Those with Lactose Intolerance can Rejoice: Lactose intolerance can cause nasty symptoms including diarrhea, nausea, and abdominal cramps when eating or drinking foods containing lactose. However, the extended fermentation period of kefir makes it approximately 99% lactose-free. The kefir grains, or starter culture, used literally feast on the lactose in the milk allowing the good bacteria to grow.
Crazy-better Probiotic Benefits: Kefir contains at least three times the number of probiotic cultures than yogurt. To make kefir, milk is fermented with a mixture of as many as 30 different types of good, probiotic bacteria and yeasts; most yogurts are made using only a few.
Supports Increased Bone Strength: One of the many byproducts of the nutrient content and probiotic boost you get from Kefir is stronger bones. Kefir is high in calcium, vitamin K, and the probiotics help improve nutrient absorption.
Helps Supercharge your Digestive Tract: The heavy dose of probiotics found in kefir will make your digestive tract healthier and more efficient. The probiotic compounds will help increase your good bacteria and fight off troublesome pathogens.
Kefir Helps Improve Allergy Reactions: Studies have shown that kefir can reduce inflammatory cells that disrupt lung function and air passages that could be clogged with mucus buildup. In addition, the probiotics present in kefir might also play a role in reducing allergic reactions in the first place.
Helps Support Better Skin Health: Unhealthy balances in your gut can cause or contribute to all kinds of skin issues including acne, rashes, and eczema. Kefir’s heavy dose of probiotics can help improve your gut health and therefore improve or prevent these skin problems.
Less Sugar, Carbs, and Calories than Normal Yogurt: Another great benefit of kefir over yogurt is its sugar content which is reduced in part by the extended fermentation process. Kefir (depending on base milk used) contains only about 3 grams of sugar while yogurt typically has 6 to 8 grams or more.
Easier to Digest than Yogurt: The curd size of kefir is smaller than yogurt and therefore, it is easier to digest. This makes it an excellent source of food for babies, the elderly, and people with preexisting digestive disorders.

How to Take your Kefir?

Due to its slightly thinner consistency, kefir can be utilized in much more ways than your typical yogurt. Buy kefir grains, a starter kit, or freeze-dried kefir powder to make your first batch right at home. You can then use your homemade kefir in the following ways:

The benefits of kefir and the ways that you can use it are endless. Next time you think of reaching for that sugar-filled, store bought yogurt, think KEFIR instead. Your body will thank you! Check out the great benefits of supplements (that actually work) and Turmeric as well.