1. Kefir is a fantastic source of many nutrients

Kefir originated from parts of Eastern Europe and Southwest Asia. Its name comes from the Turkish word “keyif,” which refers to feeling good after eating.This is a fermented drink, traditionally made with cow’s milk or goat’s milk. It is made by adding kefir grains to the milk. These are not cereal grains, but grain-like colonies of yeast and lactic acid bacteria that resemble a cauliflower in appearance.Over approximately 24 hours, the microorganisms in the kefir grains multiply and ferment the sugars in the milk, turning it into kefir. Then, the grains are removed from the liquid and can be used again.In other words, kefir is the drink, but kefir grains are the starter culture that used to produce the beverage.The grains’ lactic acid bacteria turn the milk’s lactose into lactic acid. This is what makes kefir taste sour like yogurt — but it has a thinner consistency.

A 1 cup servingTrusted Source of low fat kefir contains:

• Protein: 9 grams
• Calcium: 36% of the daily value (DV) for adults
• Phosphorus: 20% of the DV
• Vitamin B12: 29% of the DV
• Riboflavin (B2): 25% of the DV
• Magnesium: 7% of the DV
• Vitamin D: 12% of the DV

• In addition, kefir has about 104 calories, 11.6 grams of carbs, and 2–3 grams of fat, depending on the type of milk used.
• Kefir also contains a wide variety of bioactive compounds, including organic acids and peptides that contribute to its health benefits.
• Dairy-free versions of kefir can be made with coconut water, coconut milk, or other sweet liquids. These will not have the same nutrient profile as dairy-based kefir. 

2. Kefir is a more powerful probiotic than yogurt

• Some microorganisms can have beneficial effects on health when ingested.
• Known as probiotics, these microorganisms may influence health in numerous ways, aiding digestion, weight management, and mental health.
• Yogurt is the best-known probiotic foodin the Western diet, but kefir is actually a much more potent source.
• Kefir grains contain up to 61 strainsof bacteria and yeasts, making them a very rich and diverse probiotic source, though this diversity may vary.
• Other fermented dairy products are made from far fewer strains and don’t contain any yeasts.
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3. Kefir has potent antibacterial properties

Certain probiotics in kefir are believed to protect against infections.

This includes the probiotic Lactobacillus kefiri, which is unique to kefir.

Studies demonstrate that this probiotic can inhibit the growth of various harmful bacteria, including Salmonella, Helicobacter pylori, and E. coli.

Kefiran, a type of carbohydrate present in kefir, also has antibacterial properties.

4. Kefir can improve bone health and lower the risk of osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is characterized by deterioration of bone tissue and is a major concern in Western countries. It is especially common among older women and dramatically raises the risk of fractures.

Ensuring an adequate calcium intake is one of the most effective ways to improve bone healthand slow the progression of osteoporosis.

Full fat kefir is not only a great source of calcium but also vitamin K2 — which plays a central role in calcium metabolism.

Animal studies associate kefir with increased calcium absorption in bone cells. This leads to improved bone density, which should help prevent fractures.

5. Kefir may be protective against cancer

Cancer is one of the world’s leading causes of death. It occurs when abnormal cells in your body grow uncontrollably, such as in a tumor.

The probiotics in fermented dairy products are believed toTrusted Source reduce tumor growth by stimulating your immune system. So, it is possible that kefir may fight cancer.

This protective role has been demonstrated in test-tube studies.

One older studyTrusted Source found that kefir extract reduced the number of human breast cancer cells by 56%, compared with only 14% for yogurt extract.

Keep in mind that human studies are needed before firm conclusions can be made.

6. Kefir’s probiotics may help with various digestive concerns

Probiotics such as kefir can help restore the balance of friendly bacteria in your gut.

This is why they are highly effective at treating many forms of diarrhea.

What’s more, ample evidence suggests that probiotics and probiotic foods can alleviate many digestive concerns.

These include irritable bowel syndrome, ulcers caused by H. pylori infection, and many others.

For this reason, kefir may be useful if you have trouble with digestion.

7. Kefir is low in lactose 

Regular dairy foods contain a natural sugar called lactose.

Many people, especially adults, are unable to break down and digest lactose properly. This condition is called lactose intolerance.

The lactic acid bacteria in fermented dairy foods — like kefir and yogurt — turn the lactose into lactic acid, so these foods are much lower in lactose than milk.

They also contain enzymes that can help break down the lactose even further.

That’s why kefir is generally well tolerated by people with lactose intolerance, at least compared with regular milk.

Keep in mind that it is possible to make kefir that is 100% lactose-free by using coconut water, fruit juice, or another nondairy beverage.

8. Kefir may improve allergy and asthma symptoms

Allergic reactions are caused by inflammatory responses against certain foods or substances.

People with an oversensitive immune system are more prone to allergies, which can provoke conditions like asthma.

In animal studies, kefir has been shown to suppress inflammatory responses related to allergiesand asthma.

Human studies are needed to better explore these effects.

The Bottom Line :

Kefir is a healthy fermented food with a consistency comparable to drinkable yogurt.

This product is traditionally made from dairy milk, but plenty of nondairy options are available.

Studies suggest that it supports your immune system, aids in digestive problems, improves bone health, and may even combat cancer.

Get started with kefir today to make the most of this tasty, sour drink.