Morning beverages: Scientists endorse a concoction touted for promoting skin health and improving digestive health as an alternative to tea and coffee.
Kefir, a probiotic-rich dairy beverage, is gaining popularity for its numerous health benefits. Here's why incorporating kefir into your morning routine could be a game-changer.
First and foremost, kefir supports digestive health. Drinking kefir on an empty stomach in the morning gently stimulates digestion, reducing the risk of discomfort throughout the day and improving lactose digestion [1].
Beyond gut health, kefir offers several other advantages.
Immune System Strength
Kefir's probiotics support a balanced immune response, helping to strengthen the immune system [2]. The Lactobacillus kefiri strain in kefir inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria like Salmonella, E. coli, and Helicobacter pylori [3].
Bone Health
The high bioavailability of calcium and phosphorus in kefir, enhanced by vitamin K2, increases bone mineral density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis [4].
Weight Management
The probiotics in kefir may help regulate appetite and fat storage, supporting weight management efforts [5].
Better Nutrient Absorption
The fermentation process in kefir increases the bioavailability of nutrients, making it easier for the body to absorb vitamins and minerals from foods consumed throughout the day [6].
Skin Health
A study from Korea found that regular consumption of kefir for eight weeks improves skin barrier function, increases hydration, and elasticity by reducing systemic inflammation [7].
Energy Boost
Kefir provides a smooth energy boost without increasing cortisol (stress hormone) levels and improves metabolism and B vitamin synthesis [8].
Toxin Removal
Kefir aids in the gentle removal of toxins accumulated overnight [9].
IBS and Bloating
Consumption of kefir improves symptoms of IBS and bloating [10].
Coffee Alternative
Replacing morning coffee with kefir can lead to healthy digestion, strong immunity, healthy bones, and radiant skin, according to Dr. Irina Dytkovskaya, MD, a gastroenterologist [11].
Quality Matters
When choosing natural kefir, the label should only say "Kefir," not "Kefir product" or "bioked." The ingredients should be milk (whole or skimmed) and kefir grains culture only, with no dried cultures, stabilizers, or sugar [1]. Some separation (whey on top) is normal in natural kefir and indicates its naturalness; shake before use [1]. The shelf life of natural kefir should be short, 5-14 days at +4°C, indicating live cultures [1].
In conclusion, kefir is a multifunctional morning beverage that offers benefits beyond gut health. From boosting immune function to improving bone health, aiding weight management, and enhancing nutrient absorption, kefir is a worthwhile addition to your morning routine.
References: [1] Healthline [2] Medical News Today [3] Science Direct [4] Nutrients [5] Journal of Functional Foods [6] Journal of Dairy Science [7] Journal of Medicinal Food [8] Journal of Dairy Science [9] Journal of Functional Foods [10] Journal of Functional Foods [11] Dr. Axe
- Science has shown that kefir, a probiotic-rich dairy beverage, not only supports digestive health but also strengthens the immune system [2].
- For men, incorporating kefir into their morning routine can provide benefits like improved immune response and bone health, due to the high bioavailability of calcium and phosphorus in kefir [4].
- Women can also reap advantages from consuming kefir, as it has been found to improve skin health and reduce symptoms of IBS and bloating [7, 10].
- Overall, kefir, a multifunctional beverage, also aids in energy boost, toxin removal, and boasts better nutrient absorption, making it a worthy addition to health-and-wellness routines, including fitness-and-exercise, skin-care, and both mens-health and womens-health regimens.
