Kefir is great for the gut health, and it is even better when it is organic!
Kefir is a fermented milk product consumed either as a cold beverage or along with cereals or used in baked products. It is thought to aid in digestion and calm upset stomachs.
Kefir boasts live strains of cultures (for example Yeo Valley Kefir includes 14 live strains of cultures), contributing to the biodiversity of our gut microbes, known as the microbiome. Similar to the importance of biodiversity in nature, a diverse range of gut microbes supports overall gut health.
The bacteria in kefir aid in "pre-digesting" food, making the nutrients in dairy easier for our bodies to absorb. Additionally, the fermentation process reduces lactose in dairy kefir, enhancing lactose digestion while preserving essential nutrients such as Vitamin B12, Iodine, Vitamin A, and Riboflavin.
Choosing organic kefir comes with extra perks for your health. When you go organic, you avoid pesticides that can mess with your gut and lead to health problems. Organic produce, especially when it's less processed or fermented, is packed with special fibers that can get lost during regular processing.
These fibers give your gut a great workout and help produce something called 'short-chain fatty acids.' These fatty acids are like superfood for the cells in your colon, keeping them happy and healthy. So, by opting for organic kefir, you're not just sipping a tasty drink – you're giving your gut a boost!
Images: Yeo Valley
Source:
1. Why organic is better for your gut: https://betterfood.co.uk/why-organic-is-better-for-your-gut/#microbiome
2. Kefir: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/nursing-and-health-professions/kefir
3. Yeo Valley: What’s so good about Kefir? https://www.yeovalley.co.uk/blog/whats-so-good-about-kefir