Kefir~For Your Health

Kefir is pronounced keh f é-er [as in keh in kettle, and fear].

Kefir, the miracle food, is known as a superb probiotic source. With rich probiotic content, it automatically has a positive effect on our bodies. Kefir is a fermented milk drink. The word kefir is said to have originated from the Turkish word "Keif" which means "good feeling".

Kefir is a fermented milk drink that consists of either cow, goat or sheep milk mixed with kefir granules. These granules contain good bacteria and yeasts, along with proteins, lipids and sugars. The resulting product is a tart drink similar to yogurt, yet provides a whole host of extra benefits that yogurt doesn't have.

Puts your body in balance

Kefir is a complete food that balances the body. Like yoghurt, it contains benficial bacteria that cleanses the intestinal tract. However, it contains even more of the probiotic bacteria than yoghurt.

It also helps to colonize the intestinal bacteria and contains good yeasts that help to penetrate the intestinal wall. This penetration not only eliminates any so-called "bad yeasts" present, but also guards against parasites and helps to promote good digestion.

Kefir has been shown to reduce flatulence and reduces the symptoms of many digestive disorders. It helps to promote the immune systems of individuals,and contains a whole host of other proteins and essential amino acids for health. One of these is Tryptophan, which is known for its calming effect on the nervous system. Calcium and magnesium are abundant in kefir, as well, and these are well known nervous system boosters.

Engery, immunity and longevity.

Other nutritional benefits include phosphorus, a well known mineral that helps break down carbohydrates, proteins and fats, as well as promoting cellular growth, health and energy and also is rich in vitamins B1, B12, K and biotin. All these vitamins are implicated with promoting liver, kidney and nervous system health. They are also connected to relieving many skin disorders, providing energy and promoting longevity. This could be important to those who suffer immunodeficient diseases and the elderly. Kefir has been shown to guard against illnesses such as cancer, chronic fatigue and herpes and due to its nutritious nature, has been shown to decrease food cravings in many individuals, by balancing blood sugar.

How to enjoy Kefir…

shake me...

drink me...

love me...

be healthy...

feel good...

be happy!

We are so excited about the Kefir grains, as a family of four we are making and consuming six cups a day and we have been feeling good! We love Smoothies made with Kefir. We are looking at the cheese recipes, using Kefir as the starter. Our affair with Kefir has just begun so look for updates and recipes using kefir. True Kefir grain is hard to come by, unless you know someone who is growing the grain...you're in luck...If you want some grain I can share with you.

Banana and strawberry kefir smoothie I small ripe banana 6 ripe strawberries 1 cup Kefir Chop the fruit and place all ingredients in blender and mix for 10 seconds Alternative soft fruits could be raspberries, blueberries or kiwis, nectarines or peaches in any combination you like! Chocolate Kefir smoothie 1 Cup Kefir 1 tbs raw cocoa powder 1 tbs agave nectar or honey sprinkling of raw cacao nibs This is great for chocolate lovers and delicious.