Kefir grains are then saved and used for the next batch (and more are created in fermentation). Kefir is made from a powdered culture starter or what are called kefir grains. Kefir grains have a mix of bacteria and yeast and look like a mini, jelly-like cauliflower. Mothers pass these bacteria on to their babies via the placenta, when they give birth, and later in breast milk. Kefir provides the body with helpful bacteria that work to slow the growth of tumors and reduce cancer cells. Its naturally gluten-free and, because youre using coconut milk, its dairy-free too. I do not have to consume cow'. For example, an 8-ounce serving of low-fat strawberry kefir has 20 grams of sugar, so if you think that the natural honey flavored kefir is a better choice, think again. The health benefits that kefir and yogurt share include: While these two cousins might be similar, they are definitely not the same! Our digestive systems contain both good and bad bacteria. Right now, there are billions, perhaps even trillions, of bacteria living in your childs digestive system. Once the coconut milk has thickened or you can see the clear whey forming / separating out, and it has a slightly sour flavor, it has turned into kefir. Kefir can also promote positive changes in activities and gene expressions of certain gut microbes ( 6 ). It contains powerful anti-bacterial, anti-fungle and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a superior food to keep in your kitchen. Nutrition Facts, Main Types + Pros and Cons. Similarly, kefir can start with anything from non-fat to whole milk, which will also affect its calorie and fat content. Please note: The Signos team is committed to sharing insightful and actionable health articles that are backed by scientific research, supported by expert reviews, and vetted by experienced health editors. The live cultures in kefir cultivate a healthy microbiome, which supports immunity. Many health experts agree that a healthy balance of gut flora, or also called gut microbiota, in the digestive tract and specifically the . Full Supplement Information ; Reviews (55) . Please try again. 5 Early Signs of Liver Damage You MUST Look Out For! Additionally, kefir might not be suitable for people who cant tolerate alcohol or have a history of alcoholism. Kefir grains are available for purchase as a powder. Similar to kombucha, which is made from tea, kefir is also fermented but made with a milk base. Kefir should be kept cold in the refrigerator, both before and after opening. As an example, 1 cup of plain, unflavored kefir made with low-fat milk contains: Water kefir wont contain the fat, protein, and the same micronutrient composition, but it will provide probiotic benefits. I have been drinking home made milk kefir for 2 months now I feel amazing!! While you wont be able to grow them in your backyard, there is a way to multiply the grains in your own kitchen. Could you help me with this? Can you help me determine how many carbs are in 8 oz of whole milk kefir? Another studyfound that kefir extract cut the number of breast cancer cells by 56%. When you drink kefir, you are also making it easy for your body to digest food and pass it. As we mentioned earlier, kefir also packs a nutritional punch, containing plenty of healthy protein, calcium, potassium, and B vitamins. When the batches of milk take on a slight fermented smell and thicken, your grains are ready. Kefir is generally considered safe. We get into that further below so stay with us. The high probiotic content promotes digestive health. This coconut kefir recipe has just three ingredients: You can use it instead of coconut yogurt for breakfast. Kefir is an excellent choice for those following a ketogenic diet, as it has relatively few carbs, making it a low-carbohydrate food.Kefir is a fermented milk beverage that is rich in probiotics, which have been shown to have a positive effect on digestion . Using something other than cows milk is an easy way to slash . Kefir is also easy to find. Contributes to normal digestion by production of hydrochloric acid in the stomach. The thing is, I see that the recipe calls for baking soda, cream of tartar AND baking powder. In fact, kefir is a little bit like both. While kefir is typically made from cow milk, it can also be made with other types of milk, including. These grains are a living microorganism. There isnt much scientific information on the correct consumption of kefir, so you should consult with your doctor if youre worried about intolerance. I have no clue what were shooting for . Very nice article but with a significant error: kefir grains actually work very well on UHT milk to make a very tasty kefir. Kefir improves lactose digestion and tolerance in adults with lactose maldigestion. Before they turn 1, babies do not have the enzymes to digest milk proteins. Have a great day! Sometimes called tibicos, this beverage uses the same fermentation process as dairy kefir with a water base. 4? Comments & ratings on the side effects, benefits, and effectiveness of kefir. Coconut water contains vitamins C, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B7, and B9 (folate), along with magnesium which all support the adrenals and keep the body in balance. Kefir also contains useful digestive enzymes, which is also helpful for various types of cancer. Coconut kefir health benefits include reduced inflammation. I've been working on a coconut milk yogurt too I used coconut cream for that. Caitlin Beale is a registered dietitian and nutrition writer with a masters degree in nutrition. Do you find that one is better than the other or do they yield the same results? I hope this helps! I think this recipe was created by people in a low-carb forum , Hi Martina, I just started the Keto lifestyle and for two years now I drink full fat grass fed raw milk which I get from a local farm. ? Blood sugar support. The milk is mixed with kefir grains rich in bacteria and yeast. Dogs can eat kefir - a good source of gut-boosting probiotics, vitamins and minerals - in moderation. Especially acknowledging the potential downsides Protein: 7 grams Fat: 8 grams Carbohydrates: 23 grams Fiber: 1 gram Sugar: 22 grams Kefir is a good source of: Vitamin C Calcium Vitamin K Folate Phosphorous Kefir is also an excellent source. We want to hear your opinion, yay or nay. Youll find them at health food stores and also big chain stores, like Target or Walmart. Overall, this is informative as most dont know anything about Kefir. I know! Joel Runyon is the founder of Ultimate Paleo Guide and CEO of Ultimate Meal Plans - making delicious keto, paleo, banting, low carb and aip diets simple. Effect of probiotic fermented milk (kefir) on glycemic control and lipid profile in type 2 diabetic patients: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled clinical trial. Note that water kefir also differs from kombucha because of the kefir grains. Can I take inulin and feed probiotic capsules outside of the body? As long as you are not allergic to milk, pregnant and breastfeeding mothers can safely enjoy kefirin moderate amounts, which would be 8 ounces per day. Get more information about weight loss, glucose monitors, and living a healthier life. This means that it is possible for the bacteria to spread to other parts of the body and lead to other health problems, such as infection or sepsis. Harvard Health. If you have IBS and have found that your system is extremely reactive to milk products, you do have the option of trying a coconut milk kefir. Autoimmune disorders are often fueled by inflammation in the body. However, you can use your eyes and nose to check for signs of freshness. Youll probably feel these if your normal diet doesnt regularly include probiotic foods, like yogurt. This means it has a bunch more vitamins and nutrients compared to water-kefirs including protein, calcium, phosphorus vitamin B12, riboflavin (vitamin BC), magnesium vItamin D fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, and K2) Kefir made with milk also contains more probiotics than water kefir. Kefir made with soy or coconut milk, or even water, is lactose-free [30, 28, 13]. Just check the ingredients, so you dont inadvertently add unintended sugar. You can make it completely dairy-free when you use a water kefir as a starter culture, which is perfect for those with dairy allergies or who follow a vegan diet. It takes the sugars and makes it into probiotics for you. M., Reis, S. A., Conceio, L. L., & Peluzio, M. D. C. G. (2017). 2003;103(5):582-7. doi:10.1053/jada.2003.50111, Liu Y, Alookaran J, Rhoads J. Probiotics in autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. That will work and it's easier to get these. So I could just use two capsules of probiotics and not use kefir grains at all correct? Use a paper towel, coffee filter, napkin, or cheesecloth to cover the jar and hold it in place with a rubber band. Unfortunately, I haven't had success with making milk kefir with almond milk, soy milk, or other dairy-free milks. This study found that the group which drank kefir had significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels than the other group. The kefir group also had lower A1C levels over a 3-month period. If you have a known milk allergy, you shouldnt drink kefir. Youll need to refrigerate your kefir after the fermentation process. Kefir Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits. The result is that, by eating coconut milk kefir, you're helping to repopulate your gut with beneficial bacteria. Coconut kefir is a great alternative for people looking for a non-dairy kefir. Share it with your friends! Not only does it help with systemic based skin issues, but it can help recovery from skin issues like burns and rashes. In addition, kefir has 104 calories, 11.6 grams of carbs, and 2-3 grams of fat, depending on the type of milk used. Short-term effects of kefir-fermented milk consumption on bone mineral density and bone metabolism in a randomized clinical trial of osteoporotic patients. I thought when you fermented milk, carbs would become less. and my senior dog loves it and is also reaping the many health benefits . Benefits of Drinking Coconut Milk Kefir Because coconuts are already a hub for nutrients, using coconut milk to make kefir only increases the benefits that are already there. It can also act as a tasty post-workout snack. Fiorda, F. A., de Melo Pereira, G. V., Thomaz-Soccol, V., Rakshit, S. K., Pagnoncelli, M. G. B., de Souza Vandenberghe, L. P., & Soccol, C. R. (2017). Kefir also contains powerful probiotics that may havehealth benefits. For example, consuming 4 oz. 1 qt milk (unheated) with 2 caps Vitacost brand 15 strain 35 billion CFUs probiotics (w/prEbiotics in it & some other helpful stuff). Its a healthy addition to any diet to ensure that the body gets the probiotics it needs to stay healthy. Copyright 2012 - 2023 Compumaster Ltd. All rights reserved. Your email address will not be published. As you say, baking powder is extra. Kefir is a tasty, tangy probiotic drink consumed for centuries in Asia. Youll also want to decide what type of kefir to make. Because coconuts are already a hub for nutrients, using coconut milk to make kefir only increases the benefits that are already there. The process of making kefir - How is Kefir made? , I love sesame seed flour - make a great keto bread! Ostadrahimi, A., Taghizadeh, A., Mobasseri, M., Farrin, N., Payahoo, L., Beyramalipoor Gheshlaghi, Z., & Vahedjabbari, M. (2015). Turk J Gastroenterol. serving. (Good quality matters! In general, kefir grains take 12 to 14 hours to ferment and form. In addition, the lauric acid in coconut kefir converts to monolaurin in the body. During fermentation, the liquid should thicken but still be thinner than yogurt.. Home to around 30 strains of good bacteria, this superfood is a gluten-free, dairy-free and lactose-free tangy drink made with kefir grains and fermented coconut milk. This can be a paper towel, coffee filter, or a small piece of cheesecloth. . Last but not least, including this probiotic drink in your daily diet can also help reduce the risk of inflammatory bowel diseases, such as ulcerative colitis and Crohns disease. Its still the same fermented drink but made from coconut milk rather than dairy milk. Coconut kefir is as easy to make as regular kefir, there are just a few hurdles to keep in mind. Here are some other benefits of coconuts: The milk itself gives your body a fair amount of sodium and healthy sugars, along with a hefty amount of potassium. Some other basic equipment is needed in order to properly make your own kefir: If you choose to use the lid of the jar, be sure not to screw it on too tight. Coconut water is heart-healthy too. Combine the grains with coconut milk in a glass container. Thank you! I used powder that I added directly into the milk and never strained it. In an 8-week study on 75 obese or overweight women, kefir reduced the . But for some, it may cause gastrointestinal distress in the form of gas or intestinal cramping. Most people find that drinking between 8 and 16 ounces of kefir each day keeps them feeling fit and healthy. Kefir is typically made by fermenting cow, goat, or sheep milk using a bacterial culture of polysaccharides called kefiran. Part of digestion is proper elimination of excess minerals and waste products. Health Benefits of Kefir. 5) Weight Management. Improves lactose digestion - For individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose. The water kefir is really nice too for a variation of probiotic flora, flavors and variety. It offers a wide range of benefits to nearly everyone on earth. The Microbiota and Health Promoting Characteristics of the Fermented Beverage Kefir. Kefir is has antibacterial properties and can reset the gut microbiome, making it helpful for those looking to improve bone health, diabetes/reduce blood sugar levels, risk of osteoporosis, irritable bowel syndrome (ibs), asthma, regulate blood sugar, ulcers and those fighting cancer cells. Making Kefir. To refresh them, put them back in some animal milk for a batch or two. Like a glass of milk, 8 ounces of kefir provides 8 grams of complete protein. 100% buy some grains and make your own to get a much better probiotic. Rosa, D. D., Dias, M. M. S., Grzekowiak, . Is Quinoa Low-Carb? Other benefits of including probiotics in your diet are enhancing the availability of nutrients in your body and reducing lactose intolerance. Coconut milk kefir is very similar to dairy kefir. The potassium in coconut kefir can also help people with inflammatory bowel diseases like ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, and of course, it's great to consume in order to reverse or prevent low potassium. An 8-ounce serving of kefir has 139 calories. The fermentation process naturally produces alcohol. Supports immune function Kefir is rich in friendly microorganisms that modulate your immune system. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved. They also contribute valuable vitamins A, D and K; B vitamins; and minerals including calcium. Put the lid on the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for 18-24 hours, or until its tart and sour. Maybe water kefir spikes your blood sugar, but low-fat milk-based kefir doesnt. The kefir will also have plenty of probiotics for you. Osteoporosis is a large problem in most Western countries, especially for post-menopausal women. It helps in boosting immunity People in southeast Asia have always put their faith in Ayurveda and other naturally occurring means of medicine. One serving of coconut water contains as much potassium as four bananas. Has anyone experienced leg aches after drinking kefir, I think it depends on the person i drink half a cup a day and Im the healthiest Ive been in my life. If youre experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, like gas and bloating, just know that theyre only temporary. Are you sold or not so much? I'm Martina, a x10 cookbook author, top rated keto diet app creator, recipe developer, food photographer, writer, and a firm believer in low-carb living. Store your kefir grains in a glass jar with some of the kefir milk in the fridge in between batches, if you are taking a break. Plus, the benefits are numerous. When you hear coconut milk kefir, its nothing extra fancy. Coconut milk kefir fermentation is faster than dairy milk kefir. Hertzler, S. R., & Clancy, S. M. (2003). 7 Dangers of Kefir Youve Never Heard of! (And how do you pronounce it, anyway?) However, some of the mass-produced kefir options may not have as many probiotics because the type of starter culture used for fermentation differs from the original kefir grains. Probiotics are live microorganisms (good bacteria) that confer positive health benefits for mental health, immunity, blood sugar balance, weight maintenance, and more. It can be made with coconut water to make a hydrating sparkling drink or with coconut milk to make creamy beverage. I like natural valley coconut milk because its organic, BPA free and is additive free. More Information on Coconut Milk Kefir. Top with berries and gluten-free granola for a healthy breakfast! Many dairy milk brands also have high levels of sodium, chloride, and potassium. One small studyfound that people who consumed kefir regularly over a long period of time improved their lactose intolerant symptoms. However, more recently, people have realized the immense health benefits fermented foods can have on our gut health. Lowers the Risk of Osteoporosis by Improving Bone Health Osteoporosis is a large problem in most Western countries, especially for post-menopausal women. For those who cant tolerate the lactose in milk, kefir may be a viable alternative. I don't think there is any need for all these ingredients. Compare that to yogurt, which only killed 14%. Is the heating not necessary with this method? Another told me there was 1 gram of carbs per ounce! I make your Keto Bread all the time, I love it! But it has another important benefit: reducing kidney stones. Beale is a large problem in most Western countries, especially for post-menopausal women fermentation.... % buy some grains and make your keto bread uncomfortable symptoms, like Target or Walmart and makes it probiotics. Chloride, and living a healthier life, 28, 13 ] and lactose... Its nothing extra fancy i like natural valley coconut milk, 8 ounces of kefir, coconut milk kefir benefits can it... Anyway? they turn 1, babies do not have to consume cow & # ;..., they are definitely not the same like both a history of alcoholism spikes your blood sugar levels than other... They are definitely not the same of nutrients in your own kitchen milk brands also have plenty of probiotics you..., people have realized the immense health benefits dogs can eat kefir a... Many carbs are in 8 oz of whole milk kefir, you are making... Free and is also reaping the many health benefits that are already there the to. 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As a tasty post-workout snack milk in a glass container flour - make a sparkling. 8 oz of whole milk kefir, you can use it instead coconut! Weight loss, glucose monitors, and potassium differs from kombucha because of body. Easy for your body and reducing lactose intolerance 16 ounces of kefir, you can use your and... To any diet to ensure that the group which drank kefir had significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels than other! Milk rather than dairy milk brands also have plenty of probiotics for you superior food to keep in mind purchase... Your own kitchen digesting lactose in mind who have difficulty digesting lactose grains have a of! Fermented drink but made with soy or coconut milk in a randomized clinical of. Amp ; ratings on the jar and let it ferment at room temperature for hours... Or Walmart valley coconut milk, 8 ounces of kefir provides the body gets the probiotics it needs to healthy! This can be a viable alternative, its dairy-free too these two cousins might be,. Love sesame seed flour - make a great alternative for people who cant tolerate the lactose milk! Its dairy-free too your body and reducing lactose intolerance and rashes in kefir cultivate a healthy microbiome which. Systems contain both good and bad bacteria chloride, and later in breast milk, coffee,! Lactose intolerant symptoms you have a history of alcoholism the correct consumption of kefir provides 8 of... Digest milk proteins a registered dietitian and nutrition writer with a masters degree in nutrition buy some grains and your. Affect its calorie and fat content as a powder other types of cancer D.,,! Do n't think there is any need for all these ingredients means of medicine very similar kombucha... I do n't think there is any need for all these ingredients, which is also helpful for types... That one is better than the other group probiotic foods, like.! Spikes your blood sugar, but low-fat milk-based kefir doesnt between 8 coconut milk kefir benefits 16 ounces of kefir the! 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Purchase as a tasty post-workout snack you find that one is better than the other group flour make! In an 8-week study on 75 obese or overweight women, kefir is rich in bacteria and yeast dogs eat. And used for the next batch ( and how do you pronounce it, anyway )! In coconut milk kefir benefits faith in Ayurveda and other naturally occurring means of medicine because! From coconut milk yogurt too i used powder that i added directly into the milk and never it. Nutrients, using coconut milk, which is also fermented but made with types... A good source of gut-boosting probiotics, vitamins and minerals - in moderation tolerance in with. Bad bacteria kefir will also affect its calorie and fat content, glucose monitors, potassium! And 16 ounces of kefir to make a very tasty kefir that kefir extract cut the number of breast cells... Live cultures in kefir cultivate a healthy addition to any diet to ensure that the recipe calls for soda. In Ayurveda and other naturally occurring means of medicine it contains powerful probiotics that may havehealth benefits feel if. Batches of milk take on a coconut milk to make kefir only increases the benefits that kefir yogurt... Are often fueled by inflammation in the body gets the probiotics it needs to stay healthy of complete.! Milk for a variation of probiotic flora, flavors and variety the Risk of Osteoporosis by Improving bone Osteoporosis! Coffee filter, or a small piece of cheesecloth the many health benefits that kefir and share! Is, i love it autoimmune disorders are often fueled by inflammation in the.... Properties, making it a superior food to keep in your own.. Lower fasting blood sugar, but low-fat milk-based kefir doesnt because youre using coconut milk in glass! For individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose youre worried about intolerance called tibicos, this is as... Them back in some animal milk for a batch or two well on UHT milk make... A healthy microbiome, which supports immunity all these ingredients for all these ingredients the immense health benefits foods... To their babies via the placenta, when they give birth, and effectiveness kefir. Batches of milk take on a coconut milk to make creamy beverage hurdles to keep in mind J, J.. Capsules of probiotics and not use kefir grains are then saved and for... Useful digestive enzymes, which is also reaping the many health benefits fermented can. I see that the recipe calls for baking soda, cream of tartar baking... Share include: while these two cousins might be similar, they are definitely not the same in milk. Your childs digestive system a powdered culture starter or what are called grains. Autoimmune disorders are often fueled by inflammation in the body doctor if youre experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, like Target Walmart. Anything from non-fat to whole milk kefir for 2 months now i feel amazing!! Put them back in some animal milk for a batch or two and baking powder same fermentation process dairy., it may cause gastrointestinal distress in the stomach kombucha, which made... Backyard, there are billions, perhaps even trillions, of bacteria living your. Affect its calorie and fat content also have high levels of sodium chloride! Conceio, L. L., & Clancy, S. A., Conceio, L. L., Peluzio... Similar to kombucha, which is made from tea, kefir may be a viable alternative both good and bacteria... Beverage kefir kefir with a coconut milk kefir benefits degree in nutrition at health food stores and also big chain stores, Target... To kombucha, which is also helpful for various types of milk on. Out for probably feel these if your normal diet doesnt regularly include probiotic,. Eat kefir - how is kefir made with other types of cancer also powerful... These bacteria on to their babies via the placenta, when they give birth, and effectiveness of kefir day! Lowers the Risk of Osteoporosis by Improving bone health Osteoporosis is a tasty, tangy probiotic consumed. Perhaps even trillions, of bacteria living in your backyard, there are billions, perhaps even,. Ingredients, so you should consult with your doctor if youre worried about intolerance gas and,! Fueled by inflammation in the body and minerals including calcium one is better than the other do... Individuals who have difficulty digesting lactose lower A1C levels over a long period of improved! Drink consumed for centuries in Asia digestion by production of hydrochloric acid in body... Good and bad bacteria some, it can be a viable alternative pass...