Kefir: composition, useful properties and contraindications.

Kefir is a dairy product obtained by fermentation of cow's milk. Live bacteria are used to obtain the desired consistency. It is an environmentally friendly bacterial additive, so the finished product contains beneficial micro- and macronutrients. Kefir is suitable as a separate drink or as a supplement in the preparation of culinary dishes, including confectionery masterpieces. The drink is popular in Russia, Ukraine, Europe and even America.

What is kefir

Kefir is a drink, the history of which begins in the North Caucasus. The product was invented in the XX century, after which it passed from private dairy industries to industrial ones, thanks to which it has developed popularity all over the world.

Kefir refers to sour milk products due to the addition of lactic bacteria that can change the structure of the drink by filling it with air bubbles, increasing the level of acidity. The drink is actively used as a separate food to normalize the gastrointestinal tract, digestive system and liver. There are different types of kefir depending on the method of preparation, fat content and additives, so based on personal preferences you can choose not only tasty but also useful drink.

Types

Kefir is a universal product in terms of cooking technology, so depending on the need, health and taste preferences of buyers manufacturers improve the line of beverage. There are several criteria for classifying it.

According to the degree of fatness:

1. Fatty. The composition has 1; 2.5%; 3% fat content.
2. Nonfat. It is based only on skimmed milk, so kefir refers to diet drinks.

Alcohol content:

• Strong. A product of mass consumption - 0.6% alcohol.
• Medium. For therapeutic use - 0.4% alcohol.
• Weak. Specific therapeutic product - 0,2% alcohol.

By preparation time:

• One-day. Maturation time after fermentation - 1 day.
• Two days. Maturation time - 2 days.
• Three days. Aging time - 3 days.

By type of additives:

• Fruit. With the addition of purified fruit syrups.
• Protein. With the addition of milk powder.
• Special. With the addition of skimmed milk powder and sodium caseinate.
• Vitamin. With addition of vitamin C.
• Biokefir. With the addition of lactobacilli and bifidobacteria.

Each type of kefir has its own rules and requirements for the manufacture, so initially there is a clarification of norms GOST and DSTU for compliance with their standards.

What is the difference between kefir

Kefir is a dairy product created on the basis of cow's milk, but due to the variety of bacteria and microelements there are a large number of drinks that are similar to each other in structure and taste. Many people confuse kefir with ryazhenka, biokefir or even skim yogurt, thinking that they are the same product, but at different stages of readiness. In fact, not only the technology is different, but also the benefits, so each type should be considered individually for the difference with kefir.

From Ryazhenka.

Ryazhenka is a traditional product of Slavic cuisine, which was known in ancient times. It was used to quench thirst, treat illnesses and simply put on the table as a treat. It is believed that the product, which in common people called parukha, zavdavanka and kolotukha, was first invented in Ukraine. Scientists have proved that in XVII century housewives put small clay pots with milk and cream on the stove, in which they added a little sour cream as a starter. In this way the drink changed its structure and acidity, which resulted in the still famous ryazhenka.

The main difference between kefir and ryazhenka is its low caloric content due to a relatively small amount of fat in its composition. Ryazhenka refers to fatty beverages, and it has no opportunity to reduce the fat content, as in the case of kefir, because then the composition of the product will not meet the norm.

For those who adhere to the right diet or want to lose weight, the best choice is kefir, and for fans of a rich dairy and creamy taste with a hint of acidity - ryazhenka.

From yogurt

The main difference between yogurt and kefir is the different microorganisms used for sourdough. Two types of bacteria are used to make yogurt: bacillus and thermophilic staphylococcus aureus, but kefir requires more complex bacterial compounds that can bring the product to the desired structure.

Yogurt and kefir are made in similar ways, but they end up making separate products with different bacteria. But yogurt and kefir are equally beneficial and good for the diet, so if you use a nonfat composition, you can purchase and consume them for weight loss.

From sour milk

The production of sour milk uses yeast and lactic acid bacteria to allow the product to ferment for the right structure and flavor. A slight sourness is the main difference between sour milk and kefir, which can tingle on the tongue due to the active lactic bacteria in its composition. It is believed that high-quality and natural kefir should literally "play with needles" in the mouth, because it is a natural effect. Many people mistakenly believe that such an effect is the cause of poor quality composition, in fact, it is a good indicator.

The main difference between sour milk and kefir is the composition, as the use of different bacteria changes the structure of the drink.

From biokefir

The most common misconception is that kefir and biokefir are identical products that have no particular difference between them. In fact, experts distinguish many differences.

1. Composition. The first and most important is the different compositions of kefir and biokefir. In biokefir are present live lacto- and bifidobacteria, which have a positive effect on human internal organs, namely the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system. Improvement of microflora and elimination of pathogenic microelements allows to remove painful sensations in the stomach and to establish its normal functioning.
2. Cost. Be that as it may, the cost of biokefir is several times higher than usual just because of the additional bacteria in the composition, able to preserve the "live" structure of the sour-milk product.
3. Shelf life. Biokefir can be stored in the refrigerator no more than 5 days, because after that period all the useful microelements are destroyed, so that the overall usefulness of the drink is lost. A regular kefir can be stored for more than a week at the correct temperature.
4. Nutritional value. Biokefir is suitable for people who have problems with digestion of dairy products, as the active bacteria help to "soothe" the irritated walls of the intestine and stomach.
5. Caloric value. Biokefir and regular kefir are products of almost the same caloric and fat content, but the first gets the energy value due to non-fat products, and the second - due to the addition of cream of high fat content.

You can choose a product depending on individual requirements, but in any case, it is important to consider the characteristics of your body and the composition of kefir.

Composition and calories

Despite the fact that kefir is a dairy product created on the basis of cow's milk and its derivatives (cream, sour cream or sourdough) with the addition of live yeast bacteria, due to the high fat content of cow's milk it is quite caloric. Therefore, people who monitor their diet and the calories consumed, it is important to understand exactly what the energy value of the product and the ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates are:

• calories - 53 kcal/100 ml;
• proteins - 2.9 g;
• fats - 2,5 g;
• Carbohydrates - 4 g.

But the calories may vary depending on the fat content of kefir, so the most fat (3.2%) product will have 58 kcal, and in skimmed - up to 28 kcal.

Skimmed kefir is an important component of the diet of a person who wants to lose weight, as its low caloric content provides an optimal ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates, so you feel satiated for several hours. This is a good alternative for a snack or second breakfast. In addition, you can add fruits or berries to the kefir to diversify the taste.

Why is kefir good for you?

Probiotics are the main advantage of kefir, thanks to which it has become very popular among people who have problems with the gastrointestinal tract. Improving digestion and strengthening the immune system can resist the emergence of intestinal diseases. The benefits for men and women are noted separately, so special care is required when considering both the composition and benefits of the product.

For women

The female body is a complex mechanism that requires constant maintenance through a balanced diet, compliance with sleep and wakefulness regimes, timely medical examinations. Kefir helps in the treatment of thrush, hair and skin care, weight loss by speeding up the metabolism and improve the digestive system, thereby removing from the body all the toxins.

For men

According to statistics, men are more often faced with cardiovascular disease than the beautiful half of humanity. And also they often have cases of neurological diseases, so to maintain the overall tone of the body requires compliance with the rules of nutrition. Kefir is an important dairy product in the men's diet, because it brings many benefits.

1. It removes harmful cholesterol from the body, so you have the opportunity to conduct an excellent prevention of cardiovascular disease and blood clots in the circulatory system.
2. Sleep and psycho-emotional state are restored, and stresses are prevented.
3. Kefir removes toxins from the digestive system, which restores its normal functioning and makes it possible to lose excess weight. Due to its low fat content and high concentration of animal protein, the product is suitable for men who monitor their physical shape and want to gain muscle mass.

But every body is different: what is good for one person can be a problem for another. The condition of the digestive system (intestines, stomach, pancreas), liver, gallbladder is taken into account.

The benefits and harms of kefir at night

Many girls and men when losing weight, the last daily meal is replaced by kefir, which is not always approved by nutritionists and gastroenterologists. But every situation is different, so you can highlight the main benefits and harms of kefir drunk at bedtime.

Benefits

1. The feeling of hunger is eliminated.
2. The metabolism is accelerated, so the body burns fat deposits more effectively during sleep.
3. Stimulates the production of gastric juice, so you feel light and comfortable in the morning after breakfast.
4. Due to the lactobacilli in kefir, which have the property to be digested only when the human body is calm, the night intake will be very useful.
5. Kefir is recommended for those who suffer from constipation at night, because the active action of lactic bacteria allows you to empty yourself in the morning with ease.
6. Immunostimulatory action eliminates the feeling of fatigue, so the sleep will be strong and healthy.

Harms

1. If you have gastrointestinal problems, drinking a glass of kefir on an empty stomach can lead to an upset stomach.
2. Kefir is obtained as a result of fermentation, so it contains a small proportion of alcohol, depending on the fat content. This can cause discomfort in the form of bloating of the stomach and a feeling of acid in the mouth.
3. Dairy products are a safe diuretic, so drinking kefir at night can cause repeated awakenings with urges to go to the toilet.
4. The protein that is present in kefir can slow down the recovery process of the body, so in the morning there are headaches and muscle spasms.

Each person has the right to decide for themselves whether to replace dinner with kefir or not, as it is important to consider the individual characteristics of the digestive system and taste preferences.

Is it useful to drink kefir in the morning on an empty stomach?

Breakfast is the main meal of the day and should be nutritious, nourishing and healthy, so that satiety is maintained until lunch or a second breakfast and energy for the rest of the day. Carbohydrates are allowed for breakfast because they determine a person's energy and stamina during the day. Kefir is a suitable product for eating in the first half of the day.

1. It speeds up the work of the digestive system, so that the food consumed will be digested faster.
2. It regulates the body's microflora.
3. In a short time it supplies the body with a large amount of protein, so it eliminates the stagnation of lactic acid in the muscles.
4. Calms the nervous system and normalizes the psycho-emotional state.
5. It removes toxins, accelerates the digestive system.

At what age can you give kefir baby

Kefir is a natural dairy product that is suitable for children's nutrition. Doctors pediatricians recommend starting to feed your child small portions of kefir from the age of 8 months, if there are no medical contraindications. The main forbidden factor is considered to be a disorder of the digestive system, dysbacteriosis.

It is better to give the baby a product with low fat content to avoid upset and bloating of the stomach.

Can kefir be breastfed?

Kefir is an allowed product when breastfeeding, but it has a pronounced taste, which subsequently affects the mother's milk. It is important to monitor your baby so that he does not have an allergic reaction or upset stomach. Newborns are prone to dysbacteriosis and lactose intolerance, so an initial consultation with a doctor and careful monitoring of the child's condition is the main answer to the question of whether kefir is allowed when breastfeeding.

Kefir during pregnancy: is it possible and what is useful

Pregnancy - this is a period of hormonal restructuring of the body and its special need for vitamins and useful trace elements, so the diet must be nutritious products of high quality. Dairy and fermented milk products must be present, because they improve the function of the gastrointestinal tract, promote the excretion of toxins, as well as prevent the appearance of constipation, which is considered a frequent problem of expectant mothers. Kefir is recommended in such cases:

• For dysbacteriosis and vaginosis;
• a weakened immune system;
• A feeling of chronic fatigue;
• Gastrointestinal problems.

Individual consultation with the attending doctor will decide whether kefir is allowed, when and in what quantity it is better to drink to avoid health problems for both the mother and her unborn child.

How to drink kefir for weight loss

For many, losing weight is a complete dietary restriction, but in fact it is simply a balanced diet that provides maximum benefits to the body. To lose weight and normalize the body when drinking kefir, you need to follow the rules.

1. You should not drink the drink too cold or too warm. Kefir at room temperature is best.
2. The daily norm is 200-400 ml.
3. In order to lose weight and eliminate toxins from the body, it is useful to drink kefir in the evening, before going to bed, and in the morning after waking up.
4. With dysbacteriosis, you can drink kefir before meals to restore the body's microflora.

Kefir in medicine

Kefir is a nutritious and healthy dairy product, which allows not only to satisfy hunger, but also to have a beneficial effect on the systems in the body. There are several medical problems where kefir is not only a way to satisfy hunger, but also an opportunity to alleviate the condition.

For Diabetes Mellitus

In diabetes, kefir is useful for the following reasons:

• lowers blood sugar;
• Improves the function of the gastrointestinal tract;
• The general condition of the body improves;
• strengthens the immune system.

Important: glycemic index of kefir 1%-2.5% - 25 units.

In pancreatitis

In pancreatitis, kefir is useful because it reduces acidity and relieves inflammation. But it is contraindicated during an exacerbation of the disease because of its alkaline structure. Only after a ten-day period, it is possible to restore the work of the pancreas with the help of fermented milk products. The main requirement is the minimum fat content of the product.

With gastritis

For the treatment of erosive gastritis, the use of kefir is shown, as the acid-alkaline structure favorably affects the work of the digestive system, eliminates inflammation in the stomach cavity, as well as reduces the pH level.

For bowel

Constipation or disorders accompanied by severe stiffness and pain in the bowel area is a common problem arising from an unbalanced diet and lack of regimen. Drinking kefir daily on an empty stomach or at night before going to bed is an opportunity to "wind up" the stomach and remove toxins from the intestines. The elasticity of the walls of the intestine improves, so it eliminates such a problem as bloating and flatulence.

With constipation

Stagnation of organic waste in the body, or constipation in common parlance, is a physiological problem that requires a prompt solution to avoid intoxication of the body. Drinking kefir regularly allows you to normalize the stool, avoiding digestive problems.

In case of gout.

Kefir contains many useful trace elements, vitamins and minerals, so it improves the structure of bone tissue, thus eliminating the pain of gout. But given the high acidity of the product, you should consult with your doctor beforehand to avoid an adverse reaction.

In colitis.

The situation is considered individually, because flatulence and intestinal lactose intolerance in colitis can cause a deterioration. If after drinking kefir, the well-being improves and the appearance of GI problems is excluded, it is important to include the product in the diet to saturate the body with useful micro- and macronutrients.

For hemorrhoids

The treatment of hemorrhoids requires the presence in the diet of at least 3 glasses of kefir, because it improves the microflora not only of the stomach, but also of the intestines, so the inflammatory syndrome is relieved and the proliferation of hemorrhoidal nodes is prevented. Suitable product of medium to high fat content due to a sufficient concentration of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

For cholecystitis

Cholecystitis is an inflammatory process in the gallbladder, which can be easily eliminated by eating foods with a moderate acid-base balance. Kefir refers to the most effective dietary products, so it relieves irritation and normalizes the overall condition of the liver and gallbladder.

In case of stomach ulcers.

Kefir helps to reduce acidity in the stomach, so the general condition is relieved and the work of the gastrointestinal tract is normalized. But low-fat kefir is best, as it provides a mild effect on the body.

For poisoning

To remove the toxins that caused the poisoning, use fat kefir. It flushes the stomach and intestines, including the removal of bacteria that provoke nausea, vomiting, gagging and general malaise.

For heartburn.

Kefir contains protein of animal origin, so it neutralizes excess acidity, which eliminates heartburn. But it is important to drink it in small sips to gradually produce gastric juice of an acceptable pH level.

For thrush.
Acidic milk products, including kefir, contribute to the destruction of Candida fungus, so it has a devastating effect on thrush. It is recommended to drink kefir not only for treatment, but also as a prevention, so as not to face such an unpleasant intimate problem.

Kefir-based folk medicine recipes

With pneumonia

One of the most dangerous diseases of the respiratory system is pneumonia or pneumonia. In most cases, it manifests itself with severe symptoms, including high body temperature, cough, chills, shortness of breath, and pain in the chest. Avoiding the negative effects helps to avoid timely contact with a specialist, but in the early stages of the disease you can greatly ease the condition of the patient without the use of drugs. For this purpose, it is acceptable to use a warming compress of cottage cheese and kefir, prepared as follows:

1. Shallow cottage cheese is mixed with kefir (150 g of cottage cheese for 0.5 cup of kefir).
2. On a linen towel lay the resulting mixture and place it on the chest.
3. To strengthen the warming effect of the compress top cover with a woolen scarf.
4. As it cools, the lactic acid pulp is replaced by a fresh one. To avoid burns, the mixture should not be hot.

For headaches

Regardless of the nature and causes of headaches (fatigue, anemia, pressure fluctuations, etc.), an effective folk remedy for its prevention and treatment is kefir. Useful fermented milk drink is consumed by one glass twice a day (in the morning on an empty stomach and in the evening before going to bed). The duration of this therapy is 1-1.5 weeks, and for this period is recommended to be in the fresh air (preferably away from the bustle of the city).

Hemorrhoids

Folk medicine offers a simple but very effective way to treat hemorrhoids:

1. Daily drinking kefir half a glass three times a day.
2. Applications on the protruding nodes and bumps: a mixture of kefir, natural honey and thick rice broth (1:1/2:1) are smeared on a thoroughly washed plantain leaf and applied to the sore spot.

To fight with such an unpleasant disease was more effective, healers strongly recommend to give up some products: mustard, onions, black bread, legumes, cabbage, hot peppers.

From diarrhea

Quickly get rid of diarrhea will help an easy and proven recipe: Strong (three days) kefir is mixed with 200 grams of chopped walnuts. Take half a glass 3-4 times a day until complete normalization of stools (usually not more than 5 days).

With anemia

Many people do not realize that kefir can not only normalize the digestive system, but also successfully fight mild forms of anemia. To increase the level of hemoglobin in the blood and improve overall health, you can use the following recipes:

1. A glass of fermented milk drink is mixed with 1 tsp. sugar, drink three times a day for half an hour before meals.
2. Carefully mix a glass of kefir, one beaten egg, 1 tbsp. natural honey, half a glass of warm milk and 2 tbsp. gelatin. Such a cocktail is drunk three times a day 1-2 hours before a meal.

With nausea

With nausea caused by pregnancy or overeating fatty foods, it is not necessary to fight with medications. Kefir can be an effective and safe remedy. To relieve unpleasant symptoms, drink it 2-3 tablespoons every 20-30 minutes. Such therapy is carried out for 3-5 days, if necessary, the course is repeated after a couple of days break.

When suffering from heart disease

From time immemorial, folk healers have treated many cardiovascular diseases with kefir. For example, according to herbalists, atherosclerosis is easily cured by daily consumption of 0.5 liters of sour-milk drink. In combination with fruit and nut mixtures, the healing effect increases, which contributes to the purification of the walls of blood vessels from salt deposits and unloading of the body as a whole.

From overwork and weakness

Residents of the Northern Caucasus from generation to generation has passed down a recipe that allows you to cope with overwork and give vitality to a tired body. The secret of the miraculous potion is simple: thoroughly mix two glasses of three-day kefir, beaten raw egg and half a glass of grated nuts (almonds and walnuts). The mixture is taken three times a day for half a cup 2 hours before a meal.

For burns

Kefir has proven itself as an effective folk remedy for light burns. The fermented milk drink is mixed with whipped eggs, the resulting anti-burn mixture is applied to the affected area. The procedure is carried out regularly, until the reduction of unpleasant symptoms and complete healing of the damaged tissues.

For bruises and bruises.

Cold kefir is an excellent emergency aid for bruises. Its timely application as a compress will help avoid the development of bruising and a large bruise, as well as prevent the possible occurrence of an inflammatory process of the damaged area. The sour milk drink is applied to the bruised area, changing the dressing as it heats up.

Kefir in cosmetology

The beauty and health of the skin, strength and shine of the hair can be maintained not only with professional cosmetics, but also with home remedies based on kefir.

Hair mask

Kefir allows you to eliminate the greasiness of hair and infuse the roots with useful substances, thanks to which blood circulation is stimulated in the areas of hair follicles. The most effective is considered a mask based on the sour milk product to combat excessive greasiness.

• Kefir.
• 1 egg yolk.
• Dry mustard.
• Honey.
• Almond or burdock oil.
• Rosemary or lemon essential oil.

All ingredients are mixed and evenly distributed on the strands. Additionally, the mixture is rubbed into the roots, and the head is left in this form for 20-30 minutes. Then everything is washed off with a shampoo. Additionally, you can put on the ends of the hair argan or coconut oil.

Facial Mask

Beautiful facial skin with kefir is a reality, if you properly prepare a mask on its basis. The most effective recipe is considered to be the following:

• Kefir.
• Yolk.
• Vodka.
• Lemon juice.

All the ingredients are mixed and applied to the face in an even layer. It is not necessary to keep the remedy for more than 15 minutes, as this time will be enough to saturate the skin and improve the complexion.

Harms and contraindications

Kefir has contraindications and can cause health problems. Experts highlight several negative aspects when using it:

1. There is alcohol in the composition, so if you drink more than a liter of kefir, you can harm the overall condition, as there will be an effect of mild intoxication.
2. Lactose allergy is a direct contraindication to the consumption of kefir, so it is important to be examined.
3. In the elderly, fermented dairy products can cause stomach problems, so it is recommended to consume kefir in small quantities and no more than twice a week.
4. Individual intolerance to dairy products.

What can be cooked from kefir

In cooking, kefir has proved itself in a positive way, as it is an opportunity to pamper yourself and the household with not only healthy, but also tasty food.

1. Fritters. Fritters are a traditional dish that can be quickly prepared if you have kefir and flour at home. A small amount of ingredients and minimal cooking time are an advantage of puffy and tasty fritters.
2. Pancakes. Pancakes with kefir are a great alternative to milk. The fermented milk product provides an opportunity to make "openwork" sweet or salty pancakes depending on the filling. In addition, the taste and beauty of the finished dish are provided.
3. Mannik. A favorite children's dish made on the basis of semolina, with the addition of a sweet filling in the form of cherry, strawberry, apricot or any other jam and breading. This is a type of casserole, where instead of milk you can use kefir, which will make the structure of the dish more delicate, soft and pleasant.
4. Muffins. To make muffins, you need to quench the baking soda with vinegar or use sour cream to make the dish loose and porous. If there is no baking soda or sour cream, you can use kefir, as it additionally makes the muffins soft and tasty. But it is important to respect the proportions, so as not to make the dough too soft and loose, as the muffins should hold their shape.

What you can replace kefir in baked goods

Kefir in baking is used to get a porous and airy structure of the finished pie, cookies or muffins. If necessary, you can replace the kefir with fat sour cream, preferably homemade. And you can also use table soda dissolved in vinegar.

Can you drink vodka with kefir?

The most proven old-fashioned way to relieve symptoms the morning after a good alcoholic evening is kefir. If every shot of vodka is washed down with plenty of kefir, an absorption effect is created in the stomach, so nausea, dizziness and headaches are eliminated the morning after, which is considered an important benefit.

Can dogs and cats be given kefir?

Dogs and cats kefir is useful due to the beneficial lactic bacteria in the composition, but the best is a non-fat product, as it has no high acidity and helps to strengthen the gastrointestinal tract and digestive system. An important property is also considered that the product gives an anti-inflammatory effect, so the animal is easier to rehabilitate after surgery.

How to make kefir at home

Kefir can not only be purchased in the store, but also to make your own, if you take into account the proportions and all the subtleties of preparation. The most simple and at the same time convenient recipe is considered based on the following products:

• A liter of milk of any fat content (home milk is best);
• 2 tsp. of purchased sour cream or kefir will do as a starter.

Bring the milk to the boil and cool it to a temperature of 38-40ºC. Then kefir or sour cream (depending on the type of starter) is added to the jar with the milk, and everything is mixed well. The jar is covered with gauze and simply sealed with a lid. It remains only a day to put the prepared milk mixture in a warm, dark place. After this time, kefir is ready for use!

How much kefir you can and how much to store

Each type of kefir has its own shelf life, which is indicated by the manufacturer on the package, but it is important to create the right conditions to preserve the benefits and taste of the product. And for this you need to adhere to some requirements.

1. The optimal temperature for storing kefir is from -2 to +3 degrees. Therefore, given that the refrigerator, as a rule, is set to a standard temperature of +5 degrees, it is recommended to store kefir on a shelf near the source of cold.
2. In a cold place kefir can be stored up to 10 days, but biokefir - 5 days.
3. It is obligatory to have an airtight package to avoid violation of temperature conditions and direct entry of harmful bacteria into the product.

Interesting facts about kefir

Kefir has an interesting history of appearance and popularization in many countries. There are facts that directly influenced the distribution of the product.

1. Calcium from kefir is easier for the body to absorb than from milk.
2. Kefir helps to calm the nerves, so it is recommended to drink a glass of sour milk product before important events.
3. The drink was first invented by the population living in the foothills of the Caucasian Mount Elbrus.

Kefir is a valuable product created on the basis of cow's milk, which brings benefits to the whole body. The main thing is to choose the product correctly, store and use it according to the rules.

Kefir photo