Diseases Protected by Kefir
The beneficial properties of kefir have been known since ancient times. Modern doctors recommend drinking kefir for diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, liver, pancreas, and obesity. The reason why kefir is considered healthy is because it contains probiotics and other beneficial substances. In this article we will tell you who benefits from kefir and what its health benefits are.
Kefir helps with digestive problems
It is known that kefir is beneficial for the gastrointestinal tract: kefir contains beneficial microorganisms that have a positive effect on digestion and help with gastrointestinal diseases. Studies have shown that consuming probiotics (found in large quantities in kefir) helps with diarrhea, as well as digestive problems caused by antibiotics and recovery from a course of antibiotics.
Due to its antibacterial properties, kefir is recommended for gastrointestinal disorders caused by the bacterium Helicobacter pylori, such as stomach and duodenal ulcers. In addition, kefir should be drunk for diseases such as irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.
Bottom line: data on the effects of kefir on the digestive organs is not final and requires additional research, however, practice has shown that kefir helps with many gastrointestinal diseases – this is mainly due to the presence of probiotics. At the same time, kefir is not recommended for people suffering from high acidity. It is also worth remembering that fresh kefir has laxative properties, while “old” kefir has the opposite effect.
Kefir has antibacterial properties
Since kefir is a strong probiotic, it contains many beneficial bacteria. Some of these bacteria help protect the body from infections caused by harmful microorganisms. For example, the class of beneficial bacteria Lactobacillus kefiri inhibits the growth of E. coli, Helicobacter and salmonella.
Kefir reduces the risk of osteoporosis
One of the main problems, especially among older women, is osteoporosis. To avoid it, it is necessary to ensure a sufficient level of calcium, which is contained in excess in kefir. In addition, kefir contains vitamin K2, which is involved in calcium metabolism, as well as phosphorus, which is necessary for bone health.
Kefir is effective in protecting against cancer
Cancer is one of the most dangerous and serious diseases, the causes of which remain unclear. At the same time, there are products that have protective properties that prevent the emergence and development of cancer cells. Kefir is one of these products.
Probiotics contained in kefir not only increase the body’s defenses, but also reduce the level of production of carcinogenic substances. This effect prevents the development of malignant tumors. According to a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Foods, probiotics contained in kefir inhibit the growth of cells that cause breast cancer.
Kefir is effective for allergies and asthma
Unfortunately, allergies are a very common disease today. According to some reports, kefir helps prevent allergies due to the presence of an element such as polysaccharide. Studies conducted on animals have confirmed that kefir is useful for allergies and asthma, as it helps eliminate inflammatory processes.
Kefir is well tolerated by people with lactose intolerance
People with lactose intolerance cannot consume milk as it can cause nausea, diarrhea, and even vomiting. In this case, you can replace milk with fermented milk products such as yogurt and kefir.
In one study, people who were lactose intolerant were given milk, kefir, and yogurt. When consuming kefir, bloating was 71% less than when consuming milk. Among study participants who consumed yogurt instead of milk, the rate of bloating was 54% less.
Kefir is indispensable for weight loss and for cleansing the body.
Digestion produces metabolic by-products that accumulate in the body and can have a negative impact on overall health, causing headaches, fatigue and even allergies. Regular consumption of kefir, due to the content of beneficial bacteria in it, ensures a constant and uninterrupted process of cleansing the body of harmful substances.
In addition, kefir is useful for weight loss: it contains few calories, while at the same time it is perfectly satiating.
Kefir has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system
The intestinal microflora is important for the body to be healthy and all processes to proceed smoothly. Changes in the intestinal microflora can affect the functioning of all organs of the body, including the heart and blood vessels. Vitamin K2, which is found in kefir, helps prevent platelet buildup in the arteries and heart disease, and kefir polysaccharide helps lower blood pressure and serum cholesterol.
What else you need to know about kefir:
- Young children can be given kefir only after reaching 8 months, and then only in special “children’s” brands.
- Kefir is not recommended for pregnant women and nursing mothers due to the ethyl alcohol content in it.
Finally, it is worth noting that kefir is a truly unique fermented milk product. However, the benefits and harms of kefir for each individual person may differ, depending on the individual characteristics of the body. If you have any doubts about the benefits or harm of kefir for your health, be sure to consult with your doctor.