13/02/2024
Daily Kefir
Have you noticed that fewer and fewer people double-blink when you mention Kefir as part of your healthy regime? Fermented foods are becoming so popular that items like Kefir and Kombucha can be picked up in the local supermarket.
Whether you are new to the world of fermented drinks or so familiar with them that you culture your own, there's no doubt that including these beverages in your daily diet can reap health benefits.
Kefir is a fermented drink (a combination of bacteria and yeasts) similar to yoghurt and contains up to 30 different strains of gut-friendly bacteria. It can be made using any kind of cow, sheep, goat, rice or coconut milk. It can even be made using coconut water.
Taking a glass a day is fantastic for:
🍓 Providing gut-friendly microbes to your digestive system which help with metabolic processes and gastrointestinal issues like IBS.
🍓 Boosting the immune system - friendly gut microbes help to fight against pathogenic bacteria.
🍓 Building bone strength - kefir made with whole-fat dairy is a calcium-rich food. More importantly, the probiotics improve nutrient absorption, such as vitamin D, calcium, magnesium and K2 (which is very important for guiding calcium to the bones).
🍓 Supporting the largest organ of the body - your skin! Your skin is the second-largest microbial host in the body. Kefir helps bring back support to your frontline defence, strengthening this protective layer while also helping with systemic skin issues and inflammation.
🍓 Helping the gut to produce your happy hormone! Research indicates that 90% of our serotonin, or happy hormone, is produced in our gut and by our friendly gut bacteria. Happy gut, happy mind!
When is the best time to drink Kefir?
This is a personal preference. Some studies suggest that an essential amino acid found in Kefir, Tryptophan, is great for calming the mind, so for those who have difficulty getting to sleep or staying asleep, taking a glass of Kefir milk before bed is recommended.
However, because Kefir works on the digestive system, it may have the opposite effect and keep you awake at night. If you find the latter is more common, then switch to having kefir at a different time of the day.
If you struggle with gut issues, a glass of kefir before breakfast in the morning will help support your system.
And if you are simply keen to improve your overall well-being in 2024, then consider a glass of kefir instead of afternoon tea.
If you would like some advice on gut health, natural healing, or acupuncture, get in touch. I offer one-to-one consultations from our clinic in Clonskeagh, Dublin 14.
