Few people have not heard about the benefits of such a fermented milk product as kefir. It is obtained by fermenting milk with the addition of fungal cultures or bifidobacteria. This drink is famous for its excellent properties, however, there are many myths about it. For example, that it should not be drunk by pregnant women and given to children because of the alcohol content. Or that a monokefir diet is the most miraculous remedy for normalizing weight ... So, what is more in kefir - harm or benefit? Who really should not drink it and in what cases?

Benefit and harm to the body

It is believed that this drink was invented in the Caucasus, which has always been famous for its centenarians. The recipe for kefir was called the gift of Allah to man, so they treated it with particular reverence, passing on the method of preparation from generation to generation.

This fermented milk product It is able to provide the human body with many benefits due to its composition. In addition to traditional proteins, fats and carbohydrates, it contains:

• organic acids (including tryptophan);
• peptides;
• calcium;
• phosphorus;
• magnesium;
• B vitamins;
• vitamin D;
• a large number (about 30!) species beneficial microorganisms(bacteria, ).

But as for alcohol, it contains such an insignificant amount that it cannot harm children in any way. And the driver behind the wheel will not make drunk.

The main benefit, of course, is the action of a huge number of lactic acid bacteria, or rather, their interaction.


Regular consumption of kefir helps:

• to fight with chronic fatigue;
• normalize sleep, providing the body good rest;
• improve the production of digestive juice;
• get rid of stress and depression;
• run cleanup and restore gastrointestinal tract;
• get rid of excess fluid accumulated in the body, due to the diuretic effect;
• prevent the development of atherosclerosis;
• reduce chronic fatigue syndrome;
• prolong the youth of the body;
• clean it from toxins;
• control weight;
• quench thirst.

The list is pretty impressive. But it is far from complete. This tasty and beloved by many fermented milk product, if you drink it regularly, can do a lot more "good deeds".

• Helps fight various gastrointestinal infections due to the presence of probiotics. For example, kefiri bacteria actively fight salmonella, E. coli, Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium known as the causative agent of ulcers and gastritis. Useful microflora kefir can significantly reduce the amount of pathogenic flora in diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome.
• Prevents the development of osteoporosis. The calcium found in kefir helps prevent age-related loss of this mineral in bone tissue. And the composition of the drink contributes to the fact that calcium is absorbed by bone tissues more efficiently.
• Increases immunity. As is known, the majority of cells (about 70-80%) responsible for immune defense organisms are found in the intestines. Therefore, restoring the balance of the microflora of the gastrointestinal tract increases immunity.
• Reduces allergic manifestations up to preventing the development of asthma. The point is the same increase in immunity, which acts as a natural defense of the body.
• Eliminates attacks of nausea during toxicosis of pregnant women, and also helps the absorption of proteins and fiber, especially necessary for a woman during pregnancy.
• Increases acidity gastric juice. Therefore, for people with low acidity, kefir will be extremely useful.

Do not drink too cold kefir. Any cold product has an irritating effect on the gastrointestinal tract.

So what is harmful in kefir?

At first glance, talking about the dangers of a sour-milk drink against the background of so many of its advantages looks at least silly. In fact, there are no “perfect” products. Almost each of them has restrictions or contraindications, many are prohibited due to allergic reactions or individual intolerance.

There are a number of cases when kefir can be harmful to the body.

• Absolutely for all men, women and children, the product is harmful in a stale form. It reduces the amount beneficial flora, pathogenic increases, the concentration of alcohol increases. Therefore, you should not buy kefir in reserve. A spoiled drink can lead to serious poisoning. At the same time, it is more useful to buy “live” kefir, the shelf life of which does not exceed 2 weeks.
• A long stay on a kefir mono-diet for weight loss leads to the fact that the body systematically receives less required amount all useful substances(those contained in the drink itself are not enough for the full functioning of our organs and systems). You can acquire a decrease in immunity and metabolic disorders.
• Individual intolerance is a contraindication to the use of this product.
• It is also contraindicated in people with hyperacidity gastric juice because it contains acid.
• Kefir should not be drunk in diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, such as ulcers, gastritis, pancreatitis.
• Ban on fermented milk drink will be in the case of reflux disease (belching, heartburn, regurgitation).
• At kidney failure additional protein load when using kefir is also undesirable.
• The product is not recommended for children before the age of one year due to the risk of bloating or colic, and not because of the presence of alcohol.

Try not to eat more than one meal at a time. different types milk proteins (for example, do not drink a cheese sandwich with kefir). Colliding in our stomach, these dissimilar compounds can cause indigestion.

Kefir at night - is it useful?

The answer is unequivocal: if there are no contraindications to the use of a fermented milk drink, then yes. It has long been proven that this helps to improve the functioning of all organs and systems of a person, and ultimately to prolong his life. Since ancient times, people who regularly consume kefir before going to bed have been distinguished by longevity, youth and cheerfulness.

It is especially useful to drink kefir at night for the following categories of people.

• People suffering from constipation. Compound beneficial bacteria kefir helps to normalize the work of the intestine, rid it of toxins, improve peristalsis. At the same time, it is useful to take kefir with bran (a tablespoon per glass of drink) or with honey (one teaspoon is enough per glass).
• During a weight loss diet (not to be confused with therapeutic diets prescribed by a physician). In such a situation, a person, especially with an improperly built diet, often begins to experience bouts of hunger in the evening. Kefir is easily digestible product, which is digested much easier than other protein foods (the same meat or cheese). Namely, protein for the most part is responsible for saturation. Eating before bed is usually not recommended due to the extra load on the digestive system, since it must rest at night, providing normal sleep. Kefir, on the other hand, does not overload it, it is easily digested, leaving a feeling of satiety and comfort. In such cases, it is useful to drink kefir with bran or oatmeal. In the latter case, 3 tablespoons oatmeal crush, pour a glass of drink and let it brew for 5 minutes.
• With insomnia. The content of tryptophan in the drink contributes to the production of the hormone of happiness and general relaxation of the body.
• To improve immunity. For this purpose, it is prudent to use kefir with an apple.
• To improve the functioning of the liver and blood vessels. In this case, you need to stir a teaspoon of flaxseeds in a glass of kefir.

Do not drink fat-free kefir. During production, it undergoes enhanced processing, in which all its useful properties are lost. plain water will be more useful.

Is it possible to drink on kefir on a fasting day?

This question worries, first of all, those who monitor their weight and lead healthy lifestyle life. By arranging periodic (once a week) fasting kefir days, a person can cleanse the body of toxins, normalize blood pressure, prevent the development of many tumors, protect the body from harmful effects unfavorable environment.

Many believe that this helps to urgently lose a couple of unnecessary “kg”. However, it would be useful to clarify that such a discharge does not occur due to the miraculous burning of adipose tissue (kefir does not have such magic), but due to the removal of excess water and “deposits” of metabolic products remaining in the intestines.

Sometimes you can hear that on a fasting day, absolutely nothing but kefir should not be consumed. However, it is not. There are two types of such downloads. At the first, most rigid, only kefir is allowed at regular intervals. The second one is more democratic. Here kefir is combined with another product (with lean meat, vegetables, apples, honey). It is clear that the use of kefir alone will bring a greater effect. But at the same time, “unloading” is often akin to self-torture. Therefore, even on a "monday", if a strong feeling of hunger surging, you can eat, for example, a couple of tablespoons of wheat bran.

And even taking into account the fact that kefir quenches thirst, when using only it during the day, thirst can still arise. It has to do with metabolism. Therefore, still water in this case, you can safely drink.

Kefir is not just for drinking

The richest composition of biologically active substances has long been used in folk medicine. Healers advise to make healing remedies based on kefir for the treatment of various pathologies:

• burns;
• constipation (fresh kefir will help);
• diarrhea (use the "old" product);
• dandruff;
• alopecia;
• diabetes;
• urolithiasis;
• anemia;
• eczema;
• depriving.

Of course, such recipes should not be treated too gullibly - they definitely cannot be called a panacea, and before use, you should consult your doctor and find out if there are any contraindications. But the very fact that such recipes are passed down from generation to generation means that a certain healing effect from kefir still exists.

The wonderful properties of this product are also noticed by cosmetologists. They successfully use it, for example, as part of face masks. Kefir is able to give the skin of the face freshness, tone, elasticity, reduce its fat content, whiten dark spots and freckles, even strengthen facial muscles, thus slowing down the aging process. It perfectly nourishes and softens the skin of the feet after a pedicure with the removal of dead cells.

The effect of kefir on the hairline deserves special attention:

• nutrition and hydration of weakened hair;
• restoration of the structure of dry hair, getting rid of excessive greasiness - fatty;
• activation hair follicles, stimulation of hair growth;
• prevention of hair loss;
• recovery (hair after kefir masks look soft and shiny).

Kefir, perhaps, can be called the elixir of youth, health and longevity. This one is undeniable valuable product food must be in the diet of every person. Of course, in the absence of contraindications.

11:11

Kefir is a fermented milk product, which determines its health benefits. And she has various manifestations: everyone can discover it unique properties.

Beneficial features

For those who follow the figure and health, this is indispensable product. What is its use?

O healing properties fermented milk products are practically legendary, and for good reason. They are numerous, so it is worth considering them for individual groups persons. but there are some useful medicinal properties kefir, which are applicable to everyone. Product:

The list is far from exhaustive. You can continue it indefinitely, since only the main ones are listed. beneficial effects from use. However, certain categories have their own benefits.

What is useful for women

This product has invaluable benefit for women's health. Firstly, kefir is a recognized product,. Regular but moderate consumption has a beneficial effect on the condition hormonal background women, helps to stabilize the disturbed menstrual cycle.

Women use the beneficial properties of the product not only for internal health but also for external beauty. It can be combined with many others to form various combinations of masks for hair and skin.

For men

Men can find their benefits from drinking kefir. For instance, it contains a significant amount of protein, which is involved in the structure of the muscular corset. For those who play sports intensively, this product is necessary.

It also gives a relaxing, anti-stress effect, soothes, relieves anxiety.

For kids

The greatest value for children is kefir contains a significant amount of calcium. A growing organism needs to receive a sufficient amount of this element for successful growth and development.

It is nutritious, which allows the child to quickly get enough of it., so it is suitable as a snack, as part of breakfast or at night.

During pregnancy

The benefits of drinking kefir by pregnant women - in the content maximum number useful substances that favorably affect the development of the fetus.

Due to the diuretic effect, it relieves swelling, expelling from the body excess liquid. This is important for pregnant women, especially later dates, since swelling for them is a serious problem.

Find out from our next article what are the contraindications to the use of this product.

Have you heard about useful properties ah coconut milk? tell you in detail about healing qualities, storage conditions of the drink.

From our material, is goat's milk useful for children under one year old, is it true that it is healthier than cow's.

Is it good to drink before bed

So why is it useful to drink kefir at night? The use of kefir at night is good for the figure. Instead of eating something sweet or fatty, it is better to drink one glass of this drink. It will satisfy hunger, but will not harm the figure.

Consuming it at night enriches the body with calcium and other useful substances without burdening the intestines and stomach. It will be completely digested overnight.

Due to the fact that the stomach and intestines are not loaded at night, falling asleep will be easy, and sleep will be sound. This has a positive effect on the level of activity, mood, and the state of the nervous system.

Which one is better and more useful

There are no specific norms for the consumption of this drink. It is used for different purposes, so the volumes are different. Fat content is also different. General recommendations: can be included in breakfast, used between meals to satisfy hunger and drunk at night.

The choice of products is an individual matter. Numerous manufacturers and brands give you plenty of choice. But When choosing, pay attention to the following characteristics:

• Color. It should be milky, slightly creamy.
• The presence and content of bacteria. Bacteria normalize the work of the intestines, promote proper digestion.
• Consistency. It should not contain lumps - this is a sign of spoilage of the product.
• Taste and smell should be dairy.
• Compound. Be sure to read it. Qualitative natural drink must consist of milk, include sourdough based kefir mushroom. good sign- the presence of beneficial bifidobacteria in the composition.
• date of manufacture – the most important indicator quality. The correctness of its use depends on the date. Do not consume a product whose expiration date has expired - this can cause poisoning.

When choosing, you need to be careful and accurate. Only a quality product will give a positive effect.

Potential danger and how to avoid it

The main danger when using- poisoning with poor-quality or expired product. To avoid this, it is worth using a product with a valid expiration date. It is important to follow the rules of storage, since in heat it deteriorates faster, it becomes dangerous.

A large amount of kefir can cause liquid stool, increase the level of acidity of gastric juice. It is recommended to drink about one glass of standard size at a time.

To use or not: contraindications

Despite the high usefulness of kefir, like almost any other product, it has contraindications. They may concern:

It is worth abandoning the use if there is any doubt that the result will bring more problems than good.

Other uses

In folk medicine and cosmetology, there are several ways to use kefir. It helps keep hair and skin in excellent condition.

For hair

For oily hair the percentage of fat should be minimal, and for dry - maximum.

It must be heated to room temperature, applied to the entire surface of the hair, distributed evenly.

You can turn your head, leave it like that long time. Then rinse, comb your hair.

This will smooth out split ends., will save from the formation of new ones.

It is allowed to enter into such a mask additional components for more effect.

For facial skin

The same rule applies to skin as to hair: the drier it is, the fatter kefir is needed. The principle of action is also the same: heat the product, apply to the skin, mixing with additional ingredients (for example, with). Leave the mask on for 30 minutes. Then rinse. The skin will become radiant, healthy.

For weight loss

Kefir is known for its ability to influence the beauty of the figure.

What is useful kefir? What are its varieties? In what form is it best to use this healing drink? The answers to these questions can be found in this article.

The taste of kefir is familiar to many of us since childhood. This drink has many positive properties. First of all, it maintains and restores the intestinal microflora, providing therapeutic effect for the whole digestive tract. Also in kefir there are useful substances that strengthen the immune system and have a beneficial effect on nervous system person. Useful properties of kefir successfully used for medicinal purposes.
I invite you to the group on Subscribe.ru: Folk Wisdom, Medicine and Experience

What is useful kefir

Remedy for aging

Another well-known scientist Mechnikov I. I. said that digestion has a direct effect on aging. The wear rate of the body depends on the putrefactive processes that are actively taking place in our intestines.

For instance, digestive system birds do not have a rectum. All undigested pieces of food are simply thrown out, saving the flyer from accumulation and reproduction. pathogenic bacteria. Therefore, the blood of a bird does not carry harmful toxic substances making her life long enough. Most of these animals live much longer than elephants.

The internal structure of the ostrich also confirms the correctness of this theory. Ostriches have a rectum, exposing their body to harmful substances from within. Therefore, this bird lives an average of thirty years, and the eagle several times longer.

Mechnikov claimed that kefir can add an extra thirty years to your life span. By taking just two glasses of this drink a day, you can negate all the reactions of putrefaction in the intestines. Therefore, kefir is excellent tool for rejuvenation.

Positive effect on the intestinal microflora

Kefir is made up of many beneficial bacteria. Lactic acid streptococci, acetic bacteria and other microorganisms have a restorative effect on the intestinal microflora. The symbiosis of these bacteria is a powerful therapeutic and prophylactic able to help even with serious illnesses digestive organs.

Kefir leaves no chance for the pathogenic flora that very often develops in our intestines. Lactic acid bacteria effectively fight and destroy pathogens of various gastric and intestinal infections. Therefore, regular consumption of kefir effectively protects against various diseases intestines. Lactic acid bacteria do an excellent job with dysbacteriosis.

The assimilation of kefir occurs several times faster than regular milk. This significantly reduces the load on the digestive organs. This property is very useful, for example, for people weakened by some disease or for children. Also, kefir will benefit the elderly. Doctors allow children to drink this drink only after one year of life.

By the way, it might come in handy:

Beneficial effect on the body

A short list of useful properties of kefir:

• stimulation immune system;
• tonic effect on the whole body;
• cleansing of toxins and harmful substances of the entire digestive system;
• useful for people suffering from disorders of the nervous system;
• quenches thirst very well and quickly replenishes the lack of water in the body;
• aids in the digestion of food by stimulating the production of digestive juices;
• has a slight diuretic effect;
• prevents cancer.

The properties of kefir depend on its strength. It is customary to distinguish three types of fortress this drink: weak, medium and strong. Weak kefir has an "age" of one day, medium - two, strong - three. Its stimulating effect on the production of food enzymes depends on the strength of kefir. Also, over time, its cleansing properties increase. One-day kefir has a noticeable laxative property. But more Reviver on the contrary, it strengthens.

Also, kefir products have other species divisions. They differ in the number of bifidobacteria that are contained in one cubic centimeter of the drink. Based on this feature, there are such varieties of kefir as bifidok, bifikefir and biokefir.

This fermented milk drink has many useful properties that can be listed endlessly. It is also worth mentioning the external use of kefir to improve hair and skin. In this case, various masks and ointments are made from it. Kefir is also actively used in cooking.

Drinking kefir before bed

Drinking a glass of this at night healing drink, you can enjoy its additional positive properties.

1. You can sleep peacefully without feeling hungry. In this case, the load on the digestive tract will be minimal.
2. We all know that kefir is rich in calcium. But this mineral is best absorbed at night. Drinking kefir at night, we allow calcium to freely enter our bones and organs.
3. Evening intake of kefir is the key to a good morning appetite. And we all know that it is breakfast that should be especially hearty, but not lunch or dinner.
4. Kefir has a mild sedative effect. It relaxes the nervous system, preparing the body for good sleep. Therefore, kefir drunk before bedtime will help you sleep well and fall asleep quickly.

Kefir drunk at night should be at room temperature. Add some sugar or jam. From kefir you can make many useful and delicious drinks. For example, for weight loss, cinnamon, lemon, ginger and a little water are added to it.

Continuation of the topic - also useful.

ATTENTION:

Recipes traditional medicine most often used in combination with conventional treatment or as an adjunct to traditional treatment. Any recipe is good after consultation with a specialist.

Do not self-medicate!

Share with your friends on social networks!

The site is non-commercial, developed at the personal expense of the author and your donations. You can help!

(Even a small amount, you can enter any)
(by card, from a cell phone, Yandex money - select the one you need)

Is it good to drink kefir? Kefir is considered the most useful sour milk product.

It is produced by lactic acid and alcoholic fermentation.

Thanks to these unique processes, kefir becomes the owner of a huge amount of useful substances, about 22 types of microorganisms.

The fermented milk product kefir contains:

• vitamins A, B, PP;
• beta carotene;
• vitamins B1 B 2 B5 B 6 B 9 B12;
• choline - improves memory, is very important for the nervous system;
• macro and microelements: Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Cl, S, Fe, Zn, I, Cu, Mn, Se, Cr, F, Mo, Co.

Such a huge amount of valuable vitamins and minerals are necessary for the functioning of the body.

Kefir is of Turkish origin, kef in translation means health.

Useful properties of kefir

What is the fermented milk product kefir, depending on the fortress?

What effect the fermented milk product will have on the body depends on the strength of kefir.

The fermented milk product kefir differs in the accumulation of alcohol, carbon dioxide and in the level of acidity:

• weak is one daily;
• average - two daily;
• strong - three daily.

The greater the strength of the drink, the more actively it will cleanse the body, the stronger will be produced digestive juices.

Daily yogurt will help with constipation, and on the contrary, three daily kefir is recommended for diarrhea and increased gas formation.

Types of kefir:

• bifikefir;
• bifidoc;
• biokefir.

They differ in the number of bifidobacteria.

Bifidobacteria in kefir:

• increase immunity;
• protect from harmful effects from antibiotics;
• tone the body;
• improve bowel function;
• even reduce the risk of cancer.

If we compare kefir with milk, then the fermented milk product is absorbed much better. Therefore, it is very useful to drink kefir for children, people recovering from illnesses, the elderly.

For diabetics, kefir can be a medicine, it transfers glucose and milk sugar into other products, reducing sugar.

As you can see, kefir is a very valuable product, drink this healthy drink and you will always be healthy!

Kefir is a very tasty and no less healthy fermented milk product obtained by fermenting whole or skimmed milk with the addition of bifidobacteria or fungi. The drink has an irreplaceable immune-stimulating effect on the body, helps fight chronic fatigue and insomnia, so drinking a glass of kefir at night, preferably with the addition of cinnamon, will provide you with a good rest, while normalizing the nervous system. Kefir adequately compensates for the lack of protein and the lack of protein, it is well absorbed in the body, which allows it to be used by both adults and children. Buckwheat porridge with kefir is very useful for those who want to lose weight excess weight without causing any harm to the body. Great content useful properties of a biologically active drink has a therapeutic and preventive effect in many diseases. In order to properly use kefir, you need to familiarize yourself with its composition, benefits and possible harm.

The benefits of kefir - 10 useful properties

1. Saturates the body

   Kefir is primarily a highly nutritious fermented milk drink traditionally made from cow or goat milk. 1 serving (175 ml) of kefir contains:

   A glass of kefir has about 100 calories, 7-8 grams of carbs, and 3-6 grams of fat, depending on the type of milk used. The product also contains wide range biologically active compounds, including organic acids and peptides, so a glass of kefir drunk in the morning on an empty stomach will benefit the health of the whole organism. Kefir is very useful for pregnant women, especially homemade, if you cook it yourself from natural milk.

   14% daily allowance vitamin B12;

   19% daily allowance riboflavin (vitamin B2);

   Vitamin D in sufficient quantity.

2. Is a powerful probiotic

   Some micro-organisms can have beneficial health effects when ingested. Known as probiotics, these micro-organisms may affect health different ways, including improving digestion, controlling weight and stabilizing mental health. Kefir starter contains about 30 strains of bacteria and yeast, which makes the product a very rich source of probiotics. The very same kefir contains more than two trillion lactic acid bacteria and other microorganisms. Other fermented dairy products are made from far fewer strains and do not contain yeast.

3. Has a powerful antibacterial effect

   Some of the probiotics found in kefir are able to fight various infections. Probiotic lactobacilli "kefiri" can significantly reduce the growth of various harmful bacteria including salmonella, helicobacter pylori and E. coli. Kefiran, a special type of carbohydrate found in kefir, also has bactericidal properties.

4. Improves bone health and reduces the risk of osteoporosis

   Osteoporosis (“porous” bones) is characterized by the deterioration of bone tissue, which greatly increases the risk of fractures. This disease is a fairly common problem, especially among the elderly. Getting the body enough calcium is one of the most effective ways improve bone health; and slow the progression of osteoporosis. Kefir, made from skimmed milk, is not only an excellent source of calcium and vitamin K2. This nutritional product plays important role in calcium metabolism, bringing enormous benefits and reducing the risk of fractures by 81%. Recent animal studies have shown that kefir increases the ability of bone cells to absorb calcium. This leads to a significant increase in bone density.

5. Is a cancer prevention tool

   Researchers believe that the probiotics in fermented dairy products inhibit tumor growth by reducing the production of carcinogenic compounds, as well as by stimulating the immune system. At the same time, kefir is 40% more effective in coping with the growth cancer cells than yogurt.

6. Eliminates digestive problems

   The probiotics found in kefir help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. That is why they are very effective tool to fight various forms diarrhea. In addition, probiotics and probiotic foods help to manage many other gastrointestinal problems such as irritable bowel syndrome, stomach ulcers caused by Helicobacter pylori infection, and a number of other diseases. For this reason, a glass of kefir drunk before bedtime will benefit and improve the functioning of the entire digestive system.

7. Good for people with lactose intolerance

   Most dairy products contain a natural sugar called lactose. With age, the body of most people loses the ability to break down and absorb lactose correctly. This condition is called lactose intolerance. The lactic acid bacteria in fermented dairy products (such as kefir and yogurt) convert lactose to lactic acid, so these products contain much less lactose than milk. Because of this, kefir is generally well digested by people with lactose intolerance, at least compared to regular milk.