Kefir: benefits and harm to the human body

Kefir is a fermented milk product obtained by fermentation of cow's milk. To obtain the desired consistency, live bacteria are used. This is an environmentally friendly bacterial supplement, so the finished product contains useful micro and macro elements. Kefir is suitable as a separate drink or as an adjunct in the preparation of culinary dishes, including confectionery masterpieces. The drink is popular in Russia, Ukraine, Europe and even America.

What is kefir

Kefir is a drink whose history begins in the North Caucasus. The product was invented in the 20th century, after which it went from private dairy production to industrial, which made it popular around the world.

Kefir refers to fermented milk products by adding to the composition of milk bacteria that can change the structure of the drink, saturate it with air bubbles, increasing the level of acidity. The drink is actively used as a separate food to normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract, digestive system, and liver. There are different types of kefir, depending on the method of preparation, fat content and additives, therefore, based on personal preferences, you can choose not only tasty, but also healthy drink.

Kinds

Kefir is a universal product in terms of cooking technology, so depending on the needs, health status and taste preferences of customers, manufacturers are improving the line of the drink. There are several criteria to classify it.

According to the degree of fat content:

1. Fatty. The composition has 1; 2.5; 3% fat.
2. Greasy. At the heart of only skim milk, so kefir refers to diet drinks.

By the amount of alcohol:

• Strong. The product of mass consumption is 0.6% alcohol.
• Middle. For therapeutic use - 0.4% alcohol.
• Weak. A specifically therapeutic product is 0.2% alcohol.

By cooking time:

• One day. The aging time after fermentation is 1 day.
• Two day. The exposure time is 2 days.
• Three day. The exposure time is 3 days.

By type of additives:

• Fruit. With additives of peeled fruit syrups.
• Protein. With the addition of milk powder.
• Special. With the addition of skimmed milk powder and sodium caseinate.
• Vitamin. With the addition of vitamin C.
• Biokefir. With the addition of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Each type of kefir has its own rules and requirements in the manufacture, therefore, the GOST and DSTU standards are initially refined to comply with their standards.

What is the difference between kefir ...

Kefir is a fermented milk product created on the basis of cow's milk, but due to the variety of bacteria and microelements, there are a large number of drinks that are similar to each other in structure and taste. Many people confuse kefir with fermented baked milk, bio-ether or even low-fat yogurt, believing that this is one product, but at different stages of readiness. In fact, not only the technology is different, but also the benefits, so each species should be considered individually for the difference with kefir.

From ryazhenka

Ryazhenka is a traditional product of Slavic cuisine, which was known in ancient times. With it, you quenched thirst, cured diseases and simply put it on the table as a treat. It is believed that for the first time the product, which in common people is called a ham, a zavadavanka and a clapper, was invented in Ukraine. Scientists proved that back in the 17th century, housewives put small clay pots with milk and cream on the stove, to which they added a little sour cream as a starter product. So the drink, when languishing, changed its structure and acidity, due to which the result was still known fermented baked milk.

The main difference between kefir and ryazhenka is its low calorie content due to the relatively small amount of fat in the composition. Fermented baked milk refers to fatty drinks, and it does not have the ability to reduce fat content, as in the case of kefir, since then the composition of the product will not correspond to the norm.

For those who adhere to proper nutrition or want to lose weight, kefir is best suited, and for lovers of a rich milk-creamy taste with a hint of acid - fermented baked milk.

From yogurt

The main difference between yogurt and kefir is the different microorganisms used for starter culture. Two types of bacteria are used to prepare yogurt: Bulgarian stick and thermophilic staphylococcus, but for the preparation of kefir, more complex bacterial compounds are needed that can bring the product to the desired structure.

The manufacturing techniques of yogurt and kefir are similar, but in the end, through the use of different bacteria, separate products are created. But yogurt and kefir are equally useful and good for the diet, so if you use a low-fat composition, you can buy and use them when losing weight.

From yogurt

For the production of yogurt, yeast and lactic acid bacteria are used, which allow the product to ferment to obtain the desired structure and taste. A slight sourness is the main difference between yogurt and kefir, which, due to the active milk bacteria in the composition, can slightly pinch the tongue. It is believed that high-quality and natural kefir should literally “play with needles” in the mouth, as this is a natural effect. Many people mistakenly believe that such an effect is the cause of poor-quality composition, in fact, this is a good indicator.

The main difference between yogurt and kefir is the composition, since the use of different bacteria changes the structure of the drink.

From biokefir

The most common misconception is that kefir and biokefir are identical products that do not have much difference between themselves. In fact, experts distinguish many differences.

1. Composition. The first and most important thing is the different compositions of kefir and biokefir. In bio-ether, live lactobacilli and bifidobacteria are present, which positively affect the internal organs of a person, namely: the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system. Improving microflora and eliminating pathogenic microelements allows you to remove pain in the stomach and to establish its normal functioning.
2. Cost. Be that as it may, the cost of biokefir is several times higher than usual due to additional bacteria in the composition, capable of preserving the “living” structure of the fermented milk product.
3. Shelf life. Biokefir can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 5 days, because after this period all useful trace elements are destroyed, which eliminates the general benefit of the drink. And ordinary kefir can be stored for more than a week, provided that the correct temperature is observed.
4. Nutritional value. Biokefir is suitable for people who have problems with the assimilation of fermented milk products, since active bacteria contribute to the “soothing” of irritated walls of the intestines and stomach.
5. Calorie content. Biokefir and ordinary kefir are products of almost the same calorie content and fat content, but the first gets energy value due to low-fat products, and the second - by adding high-fat cream.

You can select a product depending on individual requirements, but in any case it is important to take into account the characteristics of your body and the composition of kefir.

Composition and calorie content

Despite the fact that kefir is a fermented milk product created on the basis of cow's milk and its derivatives (cream, sour cream or sourdough) with the addition of live yeast bacteria, due to the fact that cow's milk has a high fat content, it is quite high in calories. Therefore, it is important for people who monitor their diet and calories consumed to understand exactly what the energy value of the product and the ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates are:

• calorie content - 53 kcal / 100 ml;
• proteins - 2.9 g;
• fats - 2.5 g;
• carbohydrates - 4 g.

But calorie content can vary depending on the fat content of kefir, so in the fattest (3.2%) product there will be 58 kcal, and in non-fat - up to 28 kcal.

Fat-free kefir is an important component of the diet of a person who wants to lose weight, because with a low calorie content the optimal ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates is provided, so satiety is felt for several hours. This is a good alternative for a snack or lunch. In addition, fruits or berries can be added to kefir to diversify the taste.

What is useful kefir

Probiotics are the main advantage of kefir, so it has become very popular among people who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Improving digestion and strengthening the immune system can withstand the appearance of intestinal diseases. The benefits for men and women are separately noted, therefore special care is required when considering both the composition and advantages of the product.

For women

The female body is a complex mechanism that requires constant maintenance due to a balanced diet, adherence to sleep and wakefulness, timely medical examination. Kefir helps in the treatment of thrush, in the care of hair and skin, while losing weight by accelerating the metabolism and improving the digestive system, so that all toxins and toxins are eliminated from the body.

For men

According to statistics, men are more likely to encounter cardiovascular diseases than the fair half of humanity. And also, they often have cases of neurological diseases, therefore, to maintain the general tone of the body, compliance with nutrition rules is required. Kefir is an important sour-milk product in the male diet, as it brings many benefits.

1. Fatal cholesterol is excreted from the body, which makes it possible to conduct excellent prevention of cardiovascular diseases and the occurrence of blood clots in the circulatory system.
2. Sleep and psychoemotional state are restored, stress is prevented.
3. Kefir removes toxins from the digestive system, thereby restoring its normal functioning and the opportunity to lose weight. Due to the low fat content and high concentration of animal protein, the product is suitable for men who monitor their physical shape and want to gain muscle mass.

But each organism is individual: what benefits one person is another problem.The state of the digestive system (intestines, stomach, pancreas), liver, gall bladder is taken into account.

The benefits and harms of kefir at night

Many girls and men, when losing weight, replace the last daily meal with kefir, which is not always approved by nutritionists and gastroenterologists. But each situation is individual, so you can highlight the main benefit and harm of kefir, drunk at night.

Benefit

1. The feeling of hunger is eliminated.
2. The metabolism is accelerated, therefore, during sleep, the body burns fat deposits more efficiently.
3. The production of gastric juice is stimulated, therefore, in the morning, after breakfast, lightness and comfort are felt.
4. Due to lactobacilli in the composition of kefir, which tend to be absorbed only in a calm state of the human body, a nightly reception will be very useful.
5. Kefir is recommended at night for those who suffer from constipation, since the active entry into action of sour-milk bacteria makes it easy to empty in the morning.
6. The immunostimulating effect eliminates the feeling of fatigue, so sleep will be sound and healthy.

Harm

1. If there are problems with the gastrointestinal tract, a glass of kefir drunk on an empty stomach can lead to an upset stomach.
2. Kefir is obtained as a result of fermentation, so it contains a small proportion of alcohol, depending on the fat content. This can cause discomfort in the form of a bloated stomach and an acid sensation in the mouth.
3. Sour-milk products are a safe diuretic, so kefir, taken at night, can cause multiple awakenings due to the urge to go to the toilet.
4. The protein, which is present in the composition of kefir, can slow down the recovery process, so the next morning headaches and muscle cramps appear.

Each person has the right to decide independently whether to replace kefir with dinner or not, since it is important to take into account the individual characteristics of the digestive system and taste preferences.

Is it good to drink kefir in the morning on an empty stomach

Breakfast is the main daily meal, which should be nutritious, satisfying and healthy, so that until lunch or the second breakfast, satiety is preserved, and until the end of the day - energy. For breakfast, carbohydrates are allowed, as human energy and stamina throughout the day depend on them. Kefir is a suitable food product in the morning.

1. Accelerates the digestive system, so that the food consumed will be digested faster.
2. Regulates the microflora of the body.
3. In a short time it supplies the body with a large amount of protein, therefore stagnation of lactic acid in the muscles is excluded.
4. Soothes the nervous system and normalizes the psycho-emotional state.
5. It removes toxins and toxins, speeds up the digestive system.

At what age can you give kefir to a child

Kefir is a natural dairy product that is suitable for baby food. Pediatricians recommend starting to feed the child with small portions of kefir from 8 months of age, if there are no medical contraindications. The main forbidden factor is considered a violation of the digestive system, dysbiosis.

It is better for the child to give a low-fat product to avoid indigestion and bloating.

Is kefir possible for breastfeeding

Kefir is an authorized product for breastfeeding, but it has a pronounced taste, which subsequently affects mother's milk. It is important to monitor the child so that he does not have an allergic reaction or indigestion. Newborns are prone to dysbiosis and lactose intolerance, so the initial consultation with the doctor and careful monitoring of the baby's condition is the main answer to the question of whether kefir is allowed during breastfeeding.

Kefir during pregnancy: whether and what is useful

Pregnancy is a period of hormonal restructuring of the body and its special need for vitamins and minerals, so high-quality nutritious foods should be in the diet. Dairy and sour-milk products must be present, as they improve the functioning of the digestive tract, promote the elimination of toxins and toxins, and also prevent constipation, which is considered a common problem for expectant mothers. Kefir is recommended in such cases:

• with dysbiosis and vaginosis;
• weakened immunity;
• a feeling of chronic fatigue;
• problems with the digestive tract.

An individual consultation with the treating doctor will help you decide whether kefir can be drunk, when and in what quantity, in order to avoid health problems for both the mother and her unborn child.

How to drink kefir for weight loss

For many, losing weight is a complete restriction in nutrition, but in fact it is just a balanced diet that provides maximum benefits for the body. To lose weight and normalize the body when using kefir, you need to follow the rules.

1. Do not drink a very cold or warm drink. Kefir at room temperature is best.
2. The daily norm is 200-400 ml.
3. It is useful in order to lose weight and remove toxins from the body to drink kefir in the evening, before bedtime, and in the morning, after waking up.
4. With dysbiosis, you can drink kefir before meals to restore the microflora of the body.

Kefir in medicine

Kefir is a nutritious and useful sour-milk product that not only satisfies hunger, but also has a beneficial effect on the systems in the body. There are several medical problems when kefir is not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also an opportunity to alleviate the condition.

With diabetes

With diabetes, kefir is useful for such reasons:

• blood sugar decreases;
• the gastrointestinal tract improves;
• the general condition of the body improves;
• the immune system is strengthened.

Important: kefir glycemic index 1% -2.5% - 25 units.

With pancreatitis

With pancreatitis, kefir is useful because of a decrease in acidity and relieve inflammation. But with an exacerbation of the disease, it is contraindicated due to the alkaline structure. Only after a ten-day period can the pancreas be restored with the help of dairy products. The main requirement is the minimum fat content of the product.

With gastritis

The use of kefir is indicated for the treatment of erosive gastritis, since the acid-base structure favorably affects the digestive system, eliminates inflammation in the stomach cavity, and also lowers the pH level.

For the intestines

Constipation or disorder, accompanied by severe pain and pain in the intestines, is a common problem arising from an unbalanced diet and lack of regimen. A daily drink of kefir on an empty stomach or at night before bedtime - the ability to "make" the stomach and remove toxins from the intestines. The elasticity of the intestinal walls improves, so the problem of bloating and flatulence is eliminated.

For constipation

The stagnation of organic waste in the body, and constipation in the common people, is a physiological problem that requires an operational solution to avoid intoxication of the body. Regular drinking of kefir allows you to normalize the stool, avoiding digestive problems.

With gout

Kefir contains a lot of useful trace elements, vitamins and minerals, therefore, the structure of bone tissue is improved, which eliminates the pain of gout. But, given the high acidity of the product, you must first consult with your doctor to avoid an adverse reaction.

With colitis

The situation is considered individually, as flatulence and intolerance to the intestines of lactose with colitis can cause deterioration. If, after drinking kefir, one feels better and eliminates the appearance of gastrointestinal problems, it is important to include the product in the diet in order to saturate the body with useful micro- and macrocells.

With hemorrhoids

For the treatment of hemorrhoids, the presence of at least 3 glasses of kefir is required in the diet, since it improves the microflora of not only the stomach, but also the intestines, so the inflammatory syndrome is removed and the proliferation of hemorrhoids is prevented. A medium and high fat product is suitable due to a sufficient concentration of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

With cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an inflammatory process in the gallbladder that can be easily eliminated by eating foods with a moderate acid-base balance. Kefir is one of the most effective dietary products, so irritation is removed and the general condition of the liver and gall bladder is normalized.

With a stomach ulcer

Kefir helps to reduce acidity in the stomach, so the general condition is facilitated and the work of the digestive tract is normalized. But kefir of low fat content is best suited, as it provides a mild effect on the body.

In case of poisoning

Fatty kefir is used to eliminate the toxins that caused poisoning. It flushes the stomach and intestines, including removing bacteria that cause nausea, vomiting, pain and general malaise.

For heartburn

Kefir contains a protein of animal origin, so it neutralizes excess acidity, due to which heartburn is eliminated. But it is important to drink it in small sips, so that the gastric juice of an acceptable pH level is gradually developed.

With thrush
Sour-milk products, including kefir, contribute to the destruction of Candida fungus, therefore, there is a destructive effect on thrush. It is recommended to drink kefir not only for treatment, but also as a prophylaxis so as not to encounter such an unpleasant intimate problem.

Recipes of traditional medicine based on kefir

With pneumonia

One of the most dangerous diseases of the respiratory system is pneumonia or pneumonia. In most cases, it manifests itself with severe symptoms, including high body temperature, cough, chills, shortness of breath and chest pain. A timely visit to a specialist helps to avoid negative consequences, however, in the early stages of the disease, the patient's condition can be significantly alleviated without the use of medications. For these purposes, it is permissible to use a warming compress of cottage cheese and kefir, prepared as follows:

1. Small cottage cheese is mixed with kefir (150 g of cottage cheese per 0.5 cup of kefir).
2. The resulting mixture is spread on a linen towel and placed on the chest.
3. To enhance the warming effect, the compress is covered with a woolen scarf from above.
4. As cooling, the lactic gruel is replaced with fresh. To avoid burns, the mixture should not be hot.

For headache

Regardless of the nature and causes of the headache (fatigue, anemia, pressure drops, etc.), kefir is an effective folk remedy for its prevention and treatment. A healthy sour-milk drink is consumed one glass twice a day (in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before bedtime). The duration of such therapy is 1-1.5 weeks, and for this period a frequent stay in the fresh air is recommended (preferably away from the bustle of the city).

With hemorrhoids

Traditional medicine offers a simple but very effective way to treat hemorrhoids:

1. A daily drink of yogurt half a cup three times a day.
2. Applications for the protruding nodes and cones: a mixture of kefir, natural honey and thick rice broth (1: 1/2: 1) is spread on a thoroughly washed sheet of plantain and applied to the sore spot.

To combat this unpleasant disease was more effective, healers strongly recommend abandoning certain foods: mustard, onions, brown bread, legumes, cabbage, hot peppers.

For diarrhea

A quick and proven recipe will help to quickly get rid of diarrhea: strong (three-day) kefir is mixed with 200 g of chopped walnuts. Take half a glass 3-4 times a day until the stool is completely normalized (usually no more than 5 days).

With anemia

Many people do not realize that kefir is able not only to normalize the digestive system, but also successfully deal with mild forms of anemia. To increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood and improve overall health, you can use the following recipes:

1. A glass of fermented milk drink is mixed with 1 tsp. sugar, drink three times a day half an hour before meals.
2. Thoroughly mix a glass of kefir, one beaten egg, 1 tbsp. natural honey, half a glass of warm milk and 2 tbsp. l gelatin. Such a cocktail is drunk three times a day 1-2 hours before a meal.

With nausea

With nausea caused by pregnancy or overeating fatty foods, it is not necessary to fight with medications. An effective and safe remedy can be ordinary kefir. To relieve unpleasant symptoms, they drink it for 2-3 tablespoons. every 20-30 minutes. Such therapy is carried out for 3-5 days, if necessary, the course is repeated after a couple of days off.

With heart disease

Traditionally, traditional healers with the help of kefir have treated many cardiovascular diseases. For example, according to the healers, atherosclerosis is easily treated by daily consumption of 0.5 l of fermented milk drink. In combination with fruit-nut mixtures, the healing effect increases, which helps to clean the walls of blood vessels from salt deposits and unload the body as a whole.

From overwork and weakness

The inhabitants of the North Caucasus from generation to generation pass the recipe for a tool to cope with overwork and give vitality to a tired body. The secret of the miraculous potion is simple: 2 cups of three-day kefir, beaten raw egg and half a glass of grated nuts (almonds and walnuts) are thoroughly mixed. The mixture is taken three times a day for half a cup 2 hours before meals.

For burns

Kefir has established itself as an effective folk remedy for the treatment of mild burns. A fermented milk drink is mixed with a beaten egg, the resulting anti-burn mixture is applied to the affected area. The procedure is carried out regularly, to reduce unpleasant symptoms and complete healing of damaged tissues.

From bruises and bruises

Cold kefir is an excellent emergency aid for bruises. Its timely use as a compress will help to avoid the development of bruising and a large bruise, as well as prevent the possible occurrence of the inflammatory process of the damaged area. Sour-milk drink is applied to the bruised place, changing dressings as it warms up.

Kefir in cosmetology

The beauty and health of the skin, the strength and shine of the hair can be supported not only by professional cosmetics, but also by homemade products based on kefir.

Hair Mask

Kefir allows you to eliminate oily hair and nourish the roots with useful substances, which stimulates blood circulation in the places of hair follicles. The most effective is a mask based on a fermented milk product to combat excessive fat content.

• Kefir.
• 1 yolk.
• Dry mustard.
• Honey.
• Almond or burdock oil.
• Rosemary or lemon essential oil.

All ingredients are mixed and evenly distributed in strands. Additionally, the mixture is rubbed into the roots, and the head is left in this form for 20-30 minutes. Then everything is washed off with shampoo. Additionally, you can spread the ends of your hair with argan or coconut oil.

Mask for the face

Beautiful face skin with kefir is a reality, if you properly prepare a mask based on it. The most effective is the following recipe:

• Kefir.
• Yolk.
• Vodka.
• Lemon juice.

All ingredients are mixed and applied to the face in a uniform layer. No need to hold the product for more than 15 minutes, as this time will be enough to saturate the skin and improve complexion.

Harm and contraindications

Kefir has contraindications and can cause health problems. Specialists highlight several negative aspects when using it:

1. Alcohol is present in the composition, therefore, if you drink more than a liter of kefir, you can damage the general condition, as there will be an effect of mild intoxication.
2. An allergy to lactose is a direct contraindication to the use of kefir, so it is important to undergo an examination.
3. In older people, dairy products can cause stomach problems, so it is recommended to use kefir in a small amount and not more than twice a week.
4. Individual intolerance to fermented milk products.

What can be prepared from kefir

In cooking, kefir has proved itself on the positive side, as this is an opportunity to treat yourself and your household with not only healthy, but also delicious food.

1. Fritters. Hash browns are a traditional dish that can be quickly cooked if you have kefir and flour at home. A small amount of ingredients and minimal cooking time is the advantage of lush and delicious fritters.
2. Pancakes. Kefir pancakes are a great alternative to milk. Sour-milk product provides the opportunity to make “openwork” sweet or salty pancakes, depending on the filling. In addition, the taste and beauty of the finished dish are provided.
3. Manna. Favorite children's dish, prepared on the basis of semolina porridge, with the addition of a sweet filler in the form of cherry, strawberry, apricot or any other jam and breading. This is a type of casserole where, instead of milk, you can use kefir, which will make the structure of the dish more tender, soft and pleasant.
4. Cupcakes To make muffins, you need to extinguish soda with vinegar or use sour cream to obtain the friability and porosity of the dish. If there is no soda or sour cream, you can use kefir, since in addition it allows you to make muffins soft and tasty. But it is important to observe the proportions so as not to make the dough too soft and loose, as the muffins should keep their shape.

What can replace kefir in baking

Kefir in baking is used to obtain the porous and airy structure of the finished cake, cookies or muffins. If necessary, you can replace kefir with fat sour cream, preferably homemade. You can also use table soda slaked with vinegar.

Is it possible to drink vodka with kefir

The most proven ancient way to relieve symptoms the next morning after a good alcoholic evening is kefir. If you drink every glass of vodka with a large amount of kefir, then the absorption effect is created in the stomach, so the next morning eliminates nausea, dizziness and headache, which is considered an important advantage.

Is it possible to give kefir to dogs and cats

To dogs and cats, kefir is useful due to the beneficial fermented milk bacteria in the composition, but a fat-free product is best suited, as it does not have high acidity and helps to strengthen the digestive tract and digestive system.An important property is the fact that the product gives an anti-inflammatory effect, so the animal is more easily rehabilitated after surgery.

How to make kefir at home

Kefir can not only be purchased in the store, but also made independently, taking into account the proportions and all the subtleties of cooking. The most simple and at the same time convenient is considered a recipe based on such products:

• a liter of milk of any fat content (homemade is best suited);
• as sourdough, purchased sour cream or kefir is suitable - 2 tsp.

The milk is brought to a boil and cools to a temperature of 38–40ºC. Then, kefir or sour cream is added to the jar of milk (depending on the type of sourdough), and everything is well mixed. The jar is covered with gauze and just clogged with a lid. It remains only for a day to put the prepared milk mixture in a warm dark place. After this time, kefir is ready for use!

How much can and how to store kefir

Each type of kefir has its own expiration date, which is indicated by the manufacturer on the package, but it is important to create the right conditions for preserving the benefits and taste of the product. And for this you need to adhere to some requirements.

1. The optimum temperature for storing kefir is from -2 to +3 degrees. Therefore, given that the refrigerator is usually set to a standard temperature of +5 degrees, it is recommended to store kefir on a shelf near a source of cold.
2. In a cold place, kefir can be stored for no more than 10 days, and biokefir - 5 days.
3. There must be an airtight packaging to avoid violation of temperature conditions and direct entry of harmful bacteria into the product.

Interesting facts about kefir

Kefir has an interesting history of appearance and popularization in many countries. There are facts that directly influenced the distribution of the product.

1. Calcium from kefir is more easily absorbed by the body than from milk.
2. Kefir contributes to nervous calm, therefore, before important events, it is recommended to drink a glass of fermented milk product.
3. The drink was first invented by the population living at the foot of the Caucasian Elbrus.

Kefir is a valuable product created on the basis of cow's milk, which benefits the whole body. The main thing is to choose the right product, store and use it in accordance with the rules.

Photo of kefir