Although it has long been known that this is a very healthy food and easily assimilated by the body, the kefir still remains a great unknown for many people. That is why today we want to talk about the properties and health benefits of kefir.

What is kefir?

Kefir a mixture of non – pathogenic bacteria and yeasts when coupled with milk or water -the two methods elaboration- ferments and gives a substance with very similar to yogurt texture. Despite their similarity, there are many people who consider healthier kefir, both for its high content of nutrients and probiotics, such as how beneficial it is for the digestion and intestinal health.

Benefits of Kefir health

Here we have major health benefits of kefir:

– Kefir is a fantastic source of nutrients

In just 175 ml of drink kefir we found the following nutrients:

– 6 grams of protein

– 20% of the RDA of calcium

– 20% of phosphorus daily recommended Vitamin – B12 : 14% of the RDA – Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 19% of the recommended daily dose – Magnesium: 5% of the recommended daily dose – Large amount of vitamin D

All this in a little more than 100 calories, 8 grams of carbohydrates and from 3 to 6 grams of fat, depending on the milk used. Also, kefir contains a variety of bioactive, including organic acids and peptides that benefit health.

– Kefir is more powerful probiotic yoghurt

Certain microorganisms can be beneficial to health when ingested. Known as probiotics, these microorganisms can affect health in many ways, including digestion, weight control and mental health.

Although yogurt is the best known of the western diet probiotic food, kefir is a much more powerful source. We should note that the kefir grains contain about 30 strains of bacteria and yeast, so we have a source of rich and varied probiotics.

– It has powerful antibacterial properties

Some probiotics such as kefir protect against infection. Studies have shown that it can inhibit the growth of certain harmful bacteria such as Salmonella, E. coli and Helicobacter pylori. Also, the kefiran, a type of carbohydrate present in kefir, also has antibacterial properties.

– Improved bone health and reduces the risk of osteoporosis

The osteoporosis is characterized by the progressive deterioration of bone tissue, being an increasingly common problem in Western countries. Although it is more common among older women, it can occur much earlier, and carries an increased risk of bone fractures.

The most appropriate to improve bone health and also slow the progression of osteoporosis way is to ingest the necessary amount of calcium plus vitamin D, which is essential for absorption.

Besides being a great source of calcium, kefir also has a lot of vitamin K2. This nutrient plays a vital role in calcium metabolism to the point that has been shown to dramatically reduce fractures. Recent studies have also shown that kefir in animal’s increases calcium absorption by bone cells, thereby improving bone density and helping prevent fractures.

Within a few days the second part of this special will bring you new features and benefits of kefir.