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11 Amazing Benefits of This One “Grainy” Drink
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9. Improves Allergy and Asthma Symptoms
Allergic reactions are an inflammatory response by the body from normally harmless environmental compounds. Those who have oversensitive immune systems are much more prone to allergies, which can also provoke problems such as asthma. Animal studies have shown that kefir suppresses these inflammatory responses by the body that is related to allergy and asthma attacks. Although human studies need to be conducted, this is a promising start regarding allergic reactions and kefir’s ability to help quell symptoms. Find out surprising asthma statistics.
10. Protects Against Cancer
One of the leading causes of death, cancer is a disease that is feared around the world. Cancer is an uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells that can occur anywhere in the body. Fermented dairy products contain powerful probiotics that are thought to inhibit tumor growth by stimulating the body’s own natural immune system and reduce carcinogenic agents. One study found that a kefir extract reduced the number of breast cancer cells by more than 55 percent, when compared to yogurt extract, which only reduced cancerous cells by 14 percent. Studies have yet to be done on humans, but this is another example of the health benefits that can be derived from kefir.
SEE ALSO: 15 Ways to Eat Your Way to a Stronger Immune System
11. Super Easy to Make at Home
Alright, so this isn’t necessarily a health benefit, but it certainly is a wallet friendly benefit! If you have a hard time finding kefir, if you want to save some bucks, or if you simply like making your own foods, kefir is really easy to make at home. You could mix some fresh fruit from your organic store or your own garden and have a super tasty, super healthy drink or dessert anytime you like.
Kefir grains are for sale at many health food stores but if you can’t find any, they are readily available online. Simply put one or two tablespoons of the kefir grains in a small jar, then add 2 cups of full fat cow’s milk or goat milk. Milk from grass fed cows is the healthiest. Be sure to leave at least one inch of space at the top of the jar. The more kefir grains you use the faster the process will be. If you want your kefir to be thicker, exchange one cup of the milk for one cup of cream. Put on the lid and allow the jar to sit, out of direct sunlight, at room temperature for 12 to 36 hours. That’s it! Yes, it’s that simple! How will you know if it’s ready? Your milk should start to look clumpy. Strain out the kefir grains and put them in a new jar with milk and you are ready to make your next batch!
If you decide to buy kefir, look for a high-quality brand that is organic and low in sugar. You can flavor it yourself at home, which will go a long way towards limiting the amount of sugar in your kefir. Kefir is also best kept in glass bottles. Bottoms up!
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