The kefir also contains a powerful compound called kefiran, an insoluble polysaccharide that helps to fight against candida symptoms and heals external wounds [ 3]. Works as Digestive Aid Fresh coconut water generally does not have an overwhelming coconut taste like coconut milk does. The degree of sweetness will vary from coconut to coconut. As the coconut matures it will develop a richer, more coconutty taste and the water will get more cloudy. A randomized trial in twelve subjects with metabolic syndrome whose diets were supplemented with 180 mL/day kefir showed the modulation of intestinal microbiota, with a significant rise in Actinobacteria, as well as variations in the genera of the phyla Bacteriodetes and Firmicutes [ 181]. The results observed intervenes with the metabolic factors, property of metabolic syndrome, recovery in fasting insulin and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), and a decline in pro-inflammatory cytokines, and systolic and diastolic pressure, proving the modulation of the human gut microbiota through the kefir consumption in patients with metabolic syndrome. Moreover, Bengoa et al. [ 184] evaluated the capacity of the EPS produced by two L. paracasei strains isolated from kefir grains, to be metabolized in vitro by the fecal microbiota. It was observed that both EPS produced CIDCA 8339 (EPS8339) and CIDCA 83124 (EPS83124) that led to changes in fecal microbiota with a significant increase in the production of propionic acid and butyric acid. The results revealed the exopolysaccharides of kefir as potential bioactive compounds for microbiota modulation with beneficial effects both at the gastrointestinal and extra-intestinal levels. Aside from the impact of kefir on the microbiome in diseases, its protective effects in healthy individuals also have been demonstrated [ 185]. For instance, Toscano et al. [ 186] demonstrated a randomized trial in 20 Italian healthy people whose diets were supplemented with L. kefiri for one month. The results showed significant reduction in several bacterial genera directly involved in the onset of pro-inflammatory response and gastrointestinal diseases, which concluded the ability of L. kefiri to modulate the gut microbiota composition. Hence, the compositions of kefir are both potentially exerted beneficial effects in healthy individuals as well as in some disease conditions due to its gut microbiota-altering role. Anselmo et al., 2010; Carasi et al., 2014; Kakisu et al., 2007; Medrano et al., 2008; Ulusoy et al., 2007 [ 80, 81, 82, 83, 84] Furthermore, recently there has been an immense interest in the studies of altered gut microbiota in response to mental health upon kefir consumption. In fact, the term kefir derived from the Turkish word “keyif”, indicate a good feeling and pleasure after consumption suggested its potential gut-brain axis relationship. Murray et al. [ 187] studied the vital role of the gut microbiota in adolescent around the fact that the probiotics consumption can alter brain chemistry and behavior. In this context, the gut microbiota regulates stress and inflammatory responses with probiotics during puberty in CD1 mice on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced immune responses. The presence of the probiotic effect could be considered to be the ability to produce anxiolytic effects and decreases stress-induced vulnerabilities during pubertal neurodevelopment. A recent study on the interaction of microorganisms present in kefir grains with the microorganisms present in the GI of zebrafish, demonstrated that kefir associated with soybean germ (KSG) and fermentation solution of kefir (FSK) exhibit anxiolytic and antidepressant effects [ 188]. This observation suggested that the essence of the kefir contribute to the modulation of the host’s intestinal microbiota, thus allowing the positive immunomodulation and resulting in the improvement of mental health.

Blend ingredients in a food processor on high until smooth. Pour mixture into ice-lolly moulds and freeze. Coconut kefir is a nutritious drink that we can make from coconut water and kefir grains. It is rich in amino acids, calcium, magnesium, enzymes, minerals, and other vitamins. It is lactose torent and suitable for vegans as well. Kefir is good for your gut and has many other health benefits. You can easily make it at home or buy it from a food store nearby. Carasi et al., 2014; Huseini et al., 2012; Rahimzadeh et al., 2011; Rodrigues et al., 2005; Yüksekdag et al., 2004; Zanirati et al., 2015 [ 81, 89, 98, 101, 106] Interestingly, Hadisaputro et al. [ 74] explored the effects of plain kefir treatment on the glycemic status and immune responses of Streptozotocin-induced hyperglycemia Wistar rats. The study showed that the plain kefir supplementation significantly reduced the blood glucose, the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL1 and IL6), the level of TNF, and enhanced the level of anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL10), suggesting a decrease in the subsequent effect of free radicals and lipid peroxidation. Additionally, a study by Seo et al. [ 123] found that kefir produced extracellular vesicles (EV) that inhibit the inflammatory cytokine production by mitigating TNF-induced inflammation in intestinal cells. The study showed that treatment of each kefir-derived Lactobacillus EV (K-LEV) on TNF-α-stimulated Caco-2 cells had significantly reduced the mRNA expression and IL-8 secretion. Western blot analyses of the study revealed that such effect was due to TNF-α signaling inhibition mediated by reducing p65 phosphorylation, which is a subunit of NF-kB. The study also showed that treatment with K-LEV in inflammatory bowel disease mice had significantly decreased the disease-related symptoms, such as body weight loss and rectal bleeding, and improved stool consistency. Similarly, Santanna et al. [ 124] investigated the effects of a soluble, nonbacterial fraction of kefir on the progression of atherosclerosis in low-density lipoprotein receptor-deficient (LDLr−/−) mice. The soluble, nonbacterial kefir supplementation to LDLr−/− mice has led to a 50% reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine (IL-6), 42% of reduction of TNF-α/IL-10, and a 74% increase in the anti-inflammatory cytokine (IL-10) level. Furthermore, Lee et al. [ 125] studied the anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic effects of kefir in an ovalbumin-induced mice asthma model. The study revealed that an hour of kefir pre-treatment before the ovalbumin challenge had significantly suppressed the ovalbumin-induced airway hyper-responsiveness, and significantly inhibited the increase in total inflammatory cell and eosinophil counts induced by ovalbumin and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, respectively. In bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, the levels of interleukin-4 and -13, and total immunoglobulin E were reduced to normal levels. Kefir can be produced either via the traditional method or a commercial process. The small-scale production calls for direct addition of kefir grains to milk that has been pasteurized and cooled to 20–25 °C.On its own, coconut water is low-calorie but contains valuable nutrients. It is rich in alkaline minerals like magnesium and potassium; in fact coconut water contains five times more potassium, a key electrolyte, than leading sports drinks. As it is 95 per cent water, it’s a great option for rehydrating and maintaining electrolyte balance. Research studies show that kefir slows down the growth of tumors and their enzymatic conversions. The healthy bacteria in the body play an anti-carcinogenic role that helps fight against cancer cells [ 6]. Consuming a diet rich in probiotics can help clean up the gut and ensure it’s in prime working condition. Apart from adding probiotic-rich foods like curd and sauerkraut to your diet, loading up on a probiotic drink a day can actually keep the doctor away. Try these recipes to stay healthy: 1. BUTTERMILK Give coconut water kefir a try if you’re seeking a sugar-free alternative to water kefir. With the addition of probiotics from the water kefir culture, coconut water’s natural deliciousness is improved even more. Furthermore, this fermented drink aids digestion and is especially recommended with or after meals. Ingredients Seal up the swivel top bottle and leave it in a warm place for 24 hours for the second ferment . Since you are not using traditional sugar, it may take longer for the CO2 to build.

First I went on a few juice cleanses, made sure I was getting enough sleep and started to add probiotic rich foods into my diet. One of the first (yep, another first) probiotic foods I added was Coconut Water Kefir. I read about it in Donna Gates’ book, “The Body Ecology Diet: Recovering Your Health and Rebuilding Your Immunity”. It changed my life. Carasi, P., Díaz, M., Racedo, S. M., De Antoni, G., Urdaci, M. C., & Serradell, M. (2014). Safety characterization and antimicrobial properties of kefir-isolated Lactobacillus kefiri. BioMed research international, 2014, 208974. https://doi.org/10.1155/2014/208974 I know that was quite a few questions, but no where can I find many places online that are able to answer these questions. Thanks in advance! Lactose-free fermented cow’s milk kefir with milk cream, with live lactic ferments specific to kefir, a natural source of calcium and vitamin.Water kefir is made from sugar water or fruit juice. It has a thinner texture and a mild taste. And is a good option for smoothies or desserts. Coconut Kefir Sold! I needed a liver cleansing tonic in my daily regimen in addition to eating healthier and sleeping more. The liver cleansing part was the most noticeable benefit for me. It wasn’t just drinking Coconut Water Kefir everyday, but also limiting alcohol consumption and eating lots of veggies. Im not sure how much time had past, but one day I looked in the mirror and noticed that the brown spots were fading and almost gone. They are completely gone now!

It is the most common form of kefir made from cow, sheep, or goat milk. The process of making the kefir is unique. It has a tart taste and creamy texture like yogurt. And it is highly nutritious but not suitable for lactose-resistant and vegans. Water Kefir In general, kefir showed bacteriostatic effects on Gram-negative bacteria, but it is was more effective against Gram-positive bacteria [ 14]. Suriasih (2011) reported kefir’s ability to exhibit antimicrobial activity against Gram-negative bacteria, Salmonella Typhi and Escherichia coli. The surface layer protein from Lactobacillus acidophilus showed that the kefir consortium could suppress the adhesion and invasion of intestinal pathogen-induced apoptosis by regulating the mitochondrial apoptotic pathway [ 95]. In another experiment, isolated Lentilactobacillus kefiri B6 strain from kefir showed killing action against a Gram-positive bacteria, Listeria monocytogenes when in the existence of galactooligosaccharide (GOS) in vitro [ 105]. Likewise, a study by Sirirat and Jelena [ 114] showed the significant bacterial inhibition effect of the rice milk-kefir against Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis, Escherichia coli, and Pseudomonas fluorescens. Other kefir-derived Lactobacillus species, such as Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens 8U, which was predominant in Brazilian milk kefir grains, showed antagonistic behavior against several pathogens, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Listeria monocytogenes, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureu, and Enterococcus faecalis [ 89]. Similarly, a study examining the isolated strains of Lactococcus lactis and Lacticaseibacillus paracasei (basonym Lactobacillus paracasei) from kefir has been shown to exhibit antimicrobial action against Escherichia coli, Salmonella enterica, Staphylococcus aureus and Listeria monocytogenes, however, further investigation on the range of their antimicrobial activities is needed [ 94]. Additionally, Jeong et al. [ 9], showed the isolated exopolysaccharide (EPS), EPS_DN1 from kefir-derived bacteria exerted bactericidal effects against Salmonella enteritidis and Listeria monocytogenes. An in vivo study on infected burn injuries on the dorsal skin surface of 56 rats has also shown kefir gels ability against the Pseudomonas aeruginosa ranged from 250 mg/mL minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to 250 mg/mL minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) [ 106]. Additionally, it has been demonstrated that a combination of kefir microorganisms exerted protection against diarrhea and enterocolitis triggered by Clostridium difficile [ 87]. A later study on the mixture of kefir isolated two lactobacilli, one Lactococcus, and two yeasts demonstrated protection on epithelial cells in vitro against Shigella invasion [ 109]. Moreover, a recent study of the behavior of Staphylococcus aureus revealed that the use of a high kefir grain-to-milk ratio may minimize foodborne contamination during artisanal kefir manufacture [ 115]. This delicious and sparkling drink – kind of like Orangina – is a treat for your tongue and your gut. In addition, this refreshing orange beverage helps lower your temperature. IngredientsKefir was also found to have significant antioxidant effects against reactive oxygen species. Ghoneum et al. [ 135] studied the protective activities of a novel kefir product (PFT) on 10-month-old oxidative stress-induced mice. This study showed that administration of PFT significantly increased antioxidant enzyme activities of superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase; decreased oxidative stress biomarkers nitric oxide, and malondialdehyde; reversed reductions in total antioxidant capacity, glutathione levels, and anti-hydroxyl radical content; inhibited liver enzyme levels of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST); significantly enhanced high-density lipoprotein levels; and significantly reduced total cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein levels. Interestingly, the study found that administration of PFT reversed oxidative changes associated with ageing, hence normalizing the levels to young control mice in the brain, blood, and liver. Similarly, Radhouani et al. [ 136] evaluated the in vitro antioxidant properties of kefiran biopolymer. The study showed kefiran extract to possess the highest superoxide radical and reducing power scavenging activities. In addition, kefiran extract showed a great potency to scavenge nitric oxide radical. The study also demonstrated the potency of kefiran extracts on hASCs to improve its cellular function, without causing any cytotoxic responses. The study suggests a great potency of kefiran extract as a scavenger for reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, which could be an excellent candidate to promote tissue regeneration and repair. Coconut water kefir may seem like a luxury due to the high cost or limited availability of coconuts in any particular region. For those who need the additional nutrition, it can be well worth the expense and far less costly than other supplements or pharmaceutical treatments. Coconut water also comes in many different forms including frozen, in tetrapaks, or fresh. We have taste tested and found that fresh coconut water tastes best fresh and frozen or tetrapak coconut water tastes better as kefir. Step 5: Leave it at room temperature for 48 hours. Follow up by refrigerating it for a few hours, and enjoy! 6. Apple Cider Vinegar Drink

Now it’s time for a second fermentation! This step makes your coconut water kefir fizzy! Second fermentation: Coconut can decrease blood pressure significantly. This study demonstrated that drinking 2L of coconut water per day, without altering regular diet in any other way, decreases blood pressure. 71% of study participants had a significant decrease in mean systolic blood pressure and 29% had a mean decrease in diastolic blood pressure. This is promising for those who suffer from hypertension! This is a very simple and straightforward recipe, although it will take a few days to get the full results. Currently, kefir or kefir-like beverages are consumed throughout the globe, with information of kefir making in Ireland, Spain, Turkey, Malaysia, Indonesia, Tibet, and North and South America [ 19]. Water kefir, sugary kefir or tibico (tibico’s tepache) became very popular during the 20th century due to the health advantages associated with its intake [ 4].

Coconut Kefir Recipe

Marina A. Golowczyc et al., 2008; Meng et al., 2017; Rodrigues et al., 2005; Santos et al., 2003; Silva et al., 2009; Suriasih, 2011; Zanirati et al., 2015 [ 89, 91, 95, 98, 99, 100] Using coconut water preemptively works wonders. However, it is not a 1:1 replacement for the minerals found in pedialyte. Coconut water has good potassium content, but only contains about 300mg of sodium chloride per liter. To match pedialyte’s contents, it would take the addition of approximately 1/4 tsp of salt. Probiotics are beneficial microorganisms that our bodies require to keep us healthy and increase their vitality. They boost immunity, enhance cognitive function, and regulate blood pressure and cholesterol level. Probiotics also help treat urinary tract infections, IBS and diarrhoea. We hope you enjoy all of the recipes we’ve shared here and will give them a try at home for good health. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) 1. Are probiotic drinks good for you?