nutrition expert, founder of the GetVegetable nutrition delivery service
Should I drink kefir every day? Who should not abuse kefir?
It is believed that kefir appeared in the Caucasus: the locals discovered that if you add the enzyme of a fungus from koumiss to cow’s milk, you get a new drink. The tribes that inhabited the Caucasus mountains at that time were engaged in horse breeding, and it is they who are still considered the discoverers of kefir today.
In the XIX century, the benefits of kefir became widely known – doctors and other specialists related to medicine began to talk about it. Subsequently, kefir was produced throughout Russia. Initially, kefir fungi were taken from Kislovodsk to Moscow, and then sent to the regions.
Even people with lactose intolerance can drink kefir, as due to the special properties of the drink it is converted into lactic acid and can not cause allergic reactions in the body.
Kefir with a low fat percentage prevents the deposition of cholesterol on the walls of blood vessels and reduces the level of bad cholesterol. The only disadvantage is that vitamins and minerals in non-fat kefir are much less.
Of other useful properties, we can note its beneficial effect on the nervous system. And chromium in the composition of kefir will benefit those who are diagnosed with diabetes.
It is important to remember that kefir can be stored in the refrigerator for no more than three days – otherwise it kills useful bacteria, which can cause fermentation.
What happens if you drink kefir every day?
Bones will become stronger. This reduces the risk of fractures, especially for the elderly, whose bones are quite weak. Therefore, it is important to provide the body with the right amount of calcium, which can be done just at the expense of kefir.
Your heart will work better. Your blood pressure and the risk of atherosclerosis will decrease. It is also good for preventing tachycardia.
Your blood sugar will come to normal. Kefir will lower glucose readings, which will be especially helpful for those who suffer from diabetes.
Digestion will improve. Kefir contains probiotics – useful substances that normalize the intestinal microflora. It is also useful for those who are on a diet or watching their weight.
Cholesterol will be reduced. Thanks to probiotics, long-term consumption of kefir will lower blood cholesterol and strengthen blood vessels.