Kefir Health Benefits
Posted by in Smoking on June 30, 2011
Kefir is the name of a drink, which is made by fermenting milk with kefir grains. This fermented milk drink was originated in the Caucasus region. The word, ‘kefir’, however, came from two Persian words, ‘kef’, which meas foam, and ‘shir’, which means milk. Kefir grains are used in the preparation of this fermented milk drink which contains a mixture of bacteria or microorganisms and yeasts, and polysaccharides, proteins and lipids. These grains closely resemble the shape of cauliflower, and are considered as an excellent source of beneficial bacteria or probiotics. Due to the numerous kefir health benefits, and its unique microbiology, this fermented milk drink is considered as a miracle drink.
How to Make Kefir
Production of kefir requires the adding live kefir grains into the milk. While fermenting the milk, the kefir grains grow, and propagate new grains. Usually, milk of cow, sheep and goat are used to make kefir. However, milk can be replaced by its common substitutes like coconut milk, rice milk and soy milk to prepare kefir. Kefir can also ferment fruit juice, coconut water and beer wort. Traditionally, it is prepared in skin bag, which is stirred from time to time to ensure that the milk and the kefir grains mix properly. Fermentation of milk or its substitutes will ultimately, produce a yogurt like, sour and slightly alcoholic beverage. The fermented liquid is then separated from the kefir grains, with the help of a strainer to get the kefir drink.
Kefir Health Benefits
Kefir health benefits are numerous, which can be mainly attributed to the large number of beneficial microorganisms found in kefir grains. These beneficial microorganisms can play a vital role in improving general health and well being of an individual, by promoting digestive health. Kefir can also provide some important vitamins and amino acids. A few of the most important health benefits of kefir are: Read the rest of this entry »