Working at a health food store I see all sorts of interesting products and foods. Kefir seems to be popping up all over the place lately. After reading up on the health benefits of Kefir I understand why. First, lets answer a few questions (answers courtesy of kefir.net)…
What is Kefir?
– Kefir is a cultured, enzyme-rich food filled with friendly micro-organisms that help balance your “inner ecosystem.” More nutritious and therapeutic than yogurt, it supplies complete protein, essential minerals, and valuable B vitamins.
What are the health benefits of regular Kefir consumption?
– Easily digested, it cleanses the intestines, provides beneficial bacteria and yeast, vitamins and minerals, and complete proteins. Because kefir is such a balanced and nourishing food, it contributes to a healthy immune system and has been used to help patients suffering from AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes, and cancer. Its tranquilizing effect on the nervous system has benefited many who suffer from sleep disorders, depression, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).
The regular use of kefir can help relieve all intestinal disorders, promote bowel movement, reduce flatulence and create a healthier digestive system. In addition, its cleansing effect on the whole body helps to establish a balanced inner ecosystem for optimum health and longevity.
Kefir can also help eliminate unhealthy food cravings by making the body more nourished and balanced. Its excellent nutritional content offers healing and health-maintenance benefits to people in every type of condition.
Is Kefir just full of healthy bacteria, or does it contain other beneficial vitamins and nutrients?
– In addition to beneficial bacteria and yeast, kefir contains minerals and essential amino acids that help the body with healing and maintenance functions. The complete proteins in kefir are partially digested and therefore more easily utilized by the body. Tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids abundant in kefir, is well known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. Because kefir also offers an abundance of calcium and magnesium, which are also important minerals for a healthy nervous system, kefir in the diet can have a particularly profound calming effect on the nerves.
Kefir’s ample supply of phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in our bodies, helps utilize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for cell growth, maintenance and energy.
Kefir is rich in Vitamin B12, B1, and Vitamin K. It is an excellent source of biotin, a B Vitamin which aids the body’s assimilation of other B Vitamins, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, and B12. The numerous benefits of maintaining adequate B vitamin intake range from regulation of the kidneys, liver and nervous system to helping relieve skin disorders, boost energy and promote longevity.
Now, I know what you are all thinking. “But Katrina, Kefir is made out of dairy. You can’t eat dairy….”
Well, the folks over at Turtle Mountain have done it again. They have created a line of Coconut Milk Kefir that is out of this world delicious and comes in three awesome flavors: Original, Vanilla, and Strawberry.
I can not wait to begin experimenting whith all the different flavors. Coconut Kefir Ice Cream, anyone?
I poured the Strawberry Kefir into popsicle molds.
We will have Kefir-sicles for dessert tonight! YAY!
Yesterday morning I added a few spoonfuls of the Strawberry flavor to my hot cereal, 
and this morning I switched to Vanilla.
The Kefir gave the cereal a creamy texture and a hint of sweetness that made my tummy very happy!
Thank you, Turtle Mountain, for making experiencing Kefir possible for us dairy free people!
glutenfreegidget 