All the necessary supplies for fermenting

We always start with WHY …. what makes this different? And then there is WHAT is it really???

As my patients know, I am not one to jump on the next new fad in social nutrition. Just like the medicine I practice, there are traditions in nutrition that date back to the history of nations. Kefir is one of those great treasures. Coming from the northern slopes of the Caucasian Mountains, it was once called the ‘Grains of the Prophet,” believed that Mohammed gave the grains to the Othodox people to protect their strength. Kefir grains were regarded as part of the family's and tribe's wealth and they were passed on from generation to generation.

SO what is exactly kefir??? The “grains” are gelatinous white or yellow particles that contain bacteria/yeast mixture clumped together with casein and complex sugars. It contains several major strains of friendly bacteria not commonly found such as Lactobacillus Caucasus, Leuconostoc, Acetobacter species, and Streptococcus species. There are also beneficial yeasts, such as Saccharomyces kefir and Torula kefir, which dominate, control and eliminate destructive pathogenic yeasts in the body. They do so by penetrating the mucosal lining where unhealthy yeast and bacteria reside, forming a virtual SWAT team that housecleans and strengthens the intestines.

Let us break down some basic nutritional facts from a 6 oz serving: 6g protein, 20% of calcium, 20% of Phosphorus, 14% Vitamin B12, 19% of B2, 5% of magnesium, and Vitamin D. In addition there have been several studies have shown that kefir and its constituents have antimicrobial, antitumor, anticarcinogenic and immunomodulatory activity and also improve lactose digestion, among others.

The U.S. National Library of Medicine has listed these common uses also:

1. Kefir contains 30 – 50major strains of friendly bacteria not commonly found in yogurt, kefir is a turbo charged energy-anti-biotic-colonic cleanser drink. Yogurt is a mild nutrient rich drink that pre-digests the lactose helping the body better assimilate the good stuff.

2. Digestion – Kefir can help you digest everything. Kefir’s active yeast, good bacteria and excess digestive enzymes provide more nutritive value than yogurt by helping digest the foods you eat. Constipation is a thing of the past. If you drink Kefir at night no acid reflux.

3. Eliminates constipation

4. Reduces or eliminates allergies

5. Reduces or eliminates asthma symptoms

6. Reduces or eliminates cold and flu illnesses

7. Cures acne

8. Treats yeast infections

9. Promotes a natural “good” feeling

10. Effective as the strongest natural antibiotic without side effects

11. Replenishes the body with good bacteria after antibiotic use

12. Treats diarrhea

13. Aids lactose intolerance

14. Promotes deep sleep