Nutrition Tip - KefirKefir is a cultured dairy product, similar to yogurt, with amazing health attributes. It has similar properties to yogurt but also contains several major strains of friendly bacteria not often found in yogurt. Kefir's active yeast and bacteria provide more nutritive value than yogurt by helping digest the foods that you eat. The beneficial yeast helps control destructive pathogenic yeasts in the body by cleaning and strengthening the intestines. As a result, the body becomes more efficient in resisting such pathogens as E. coli and intestinal parasites.In addition to beneficial bacteria and yeast, kefir contains minerals and essential amino acids that help the body with healing and maintenance functions. The complete proteins in kefir are partially digested and therefore more easily utilized by the body. Tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids found in kefir, is well known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. Because kefir also contains calcium and magnesium, which are important minerals for a healthy nervous system, adding kefir to your diet can produce calming effect on the nerves. As such, it is a great food choice for anyone with sleep disorders, depression, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder). Kefir is rich in Vitamin B12, B1, and Vitamin K. It is an excellent source of biotin, a B Vitamin which aids the body's assimilation of other B Vitamins, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, and B12. Adequate B vitamin intake is important for the regulation of the kidneys, liver and nervous system, improves skin disorders, and boosts energy. For anyone with a lactose intolerance, the beneficial yeast and bacteria provide lactase, an enzyme, which consumes most of the lactose left after the culturing process. Because the curd size of kefir is smaller than yogurt, it is also easier to digest, which makes it a great food for babies, invalids and the elderly, as well as a remedy for digestive disorders. Because kefir is such a balanced and nourishing food and has an excellent nutritional profile, it offers many healing and health-maintenance benefits to people in every type of condition. Some other incentives to add kefir to your regular diet are:
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