What Are Kefir Grains And Where Do They Come From?
Kefir is a drink made from fermented milk which is similar in consistency and texture to yogurt. Kefir contains probiotics and is made when adding these kefir grains into milk. The kefir grain consists of sugars, lipids, and proteins. They are the ideal catalyst for fermentation processes similar to wheat grains or barley are when making beer.
When adding kefir grains to milk such as sheep, goat or cow, the grains will cause the milk to ferment. They also grow and can also be reused. Kefir grains will also ferment the milk substitutes like almond or soy milk. But these are liquids that will not encourage the grains to grow.
Where Do Kefir Grains Come From?
Kefir is derived from adding the kefir grains into milk, but you may be wondering where these grains originate from. Kefir grains are classified as a form of a SCOBY, which is something you may associate with kombucha. SCOBY stands for Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast, and it is from this colony that the kefir grains are formed from. It is not easy to encourage new grain production, which is why these grains are typically acquired from established colonies. Today you can buy kefir grains from health stores or online.
Who Should Try Kefir Grains?
Similar to yogurt, kefir is associated with various health benefits linked with probiotics. Kefir, however, contains a lot more bacteria strains when compared to yogurt, which colonizes your digestive tract for longer and more comprehensively. When this healthy bacteria is allowed to thrive in your digestive tract it aids with digestion, improves immunity, and can ease the symptoms linked to conditions such as IBS.
The bacteria present in kefir grains produce beneficial lactic acid that helps soothe and calm your gut lining down. Kefir is a rich source of magnesium, phosphorus, calcium, Vitamin A, B2, B12, D, and K, making this supplement great for overall nutrition.
Can You Make Your Own Kefir?
Even though it is easy to buy or find kefir products these days, it is also easy, cheap, and fast to produce your own. Homemade kefir usually also contains higher concentrations of probiotics when compared to store-bought versions. To make your own kefir, buy kefir grains, use them in dairy-based milk, especially if you want the grains to carry on growing. Allow this mixture to stand for 24 hours at room temperature. Once the fermentation process is complete, strain the grains out to keep for the next batch that you make. Once brewed, you can store kefir in your fridge similar to yogurt.
Ways To Enjoy Kefir
Kefir, once fermented can either be very thick like Greek yogurt, or it can be thinner similar to drinkable yogurt. You can add fruit to your kefir or freeze the mixture into popsicles. For an added health kick, you could add Manuka Honey, for a natural and super healthy sweet treat. Kefir is one of the best options if you are looking for a way to increase your intake of probiotics.Where do Kefir grains come from?
