Five useful properties of kefir that you might not know about
Kefir is a fermented drink obtained from cow, goat, or sheep milk by fermentation using special kefir fungi. Due to the high content of probiotics and other nutrients important for our body, kefir has many beneficial properties. Here are some of them.
Supports gastrointestinal health
A small study by scientists from the Stanford University School of Medicine (USA) showed that regular consumption of fermented foods, including kefir, significantly increases the diversity of intestinal bacteria, which, in turn, improves the digestive tract and strengthens the digestive tract the immune system. Plus, having a good gut microbiome has a positive effect on brain function and mental health.
Strengthens bones
Kefir is rich in probiotics, calcium, and vitamin D. These substances play an important role in strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis. Researchers from Taiwan tested how kefir consumption affects patients with osteoporosis.
The results showed that subjects who drank kefir for six months experienced significant increases in bone mineral density, as opposed to those who took only calcium supplements.
It helps control blood sugar levels
Another important property of kefir is the ability to regulate blood glucose levels. This is confirmed by a study by scientists from the University of Tabriz (Iran). The experiment was carried out among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.
It was found that participants who drank kefir had a decrease in fasting blood glucose and HbA1C (glycated haemoglobin), a measure of the average blood sugar over a long period.
PS For kefir to lower glucose levels, it is important to drink it without added sugar.
Has antibacterial properties
Kefir contains the polysaccharide kefiran, which has antibacterial and wound-healing properties and helps lower blood pressure and the level of “bad” cholesterol.
In addition to this unique type of carbohydrate, kefir contains the probiotics Lactobacillus kefiri, which inhibit the growth of some harmful bacteria, including Salmonella.
Promotes weight loss
Kefir, especially fat-free, is a fairly low-calorie, high-protein food, so eating it can help you lose weight. For example, if you want to lose weight, you can replace one of the meals with a couple of glasses of kefir: it is great for filling, but at the same time, it is easily absorbed and does not cause heaviness in the stomach.
