As a fanatic of healthy or vegan diets, one must not miss out on the many types of beverages that are a quick source of nutrition. From the cool organic coconut water, to adaptogenic mushroom beverages, they keep you hydrated and provide you with the energy needed for the day without putting a lot of effort when you are running low on time. One more drink you need to try is Water Kefir, a vegan and delicious beverage that can be experimented with in a zillion different ways.
Water Kefir is a traditional fermented and carbonated drink that can be used as a substitute for milk-based probiotic drinks. It is made by combining water with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts. Basically, tibicos, or water kefir grains are added to sugar-water solution and fermented for 1-2 days at room temperature. These grains come from a cactus that grow and multiply in the liquid. In the process, they metabolise the sugar, which means that Water Kefir is low in sugar, keeping your heart happy. The resultant drink is rich in good bacteria that has supreme health benefits, and is moderately sweet.
A citrus fruit is also added to the solution to inhibit the growth of Kahm yeast, something that can affect the taste. Lemons, oranges, or even grapes can be used for this.
This drink has its own unique benefits:
- When compared to store bought fizzy soft drinks, Water Kefir might take a little longer to reach your glass, but the lower sugar level is certainly worth it. Those canned sugary syrups will be forgotten soon when your body gets the nutrients that Water Kefir offers.
- Talking about nutrients, the fermentation process of Water Kefir produces many antioxidants. Sugars and minerals are also transformed into Organic acids, enzymes, and other organic components.
- You can use any fruit juice to make Kefir. How interesting is the idea of spending a summer morning near the juicer with all your favourite fruits, and drinking flavoured Kefir two days later? Keep checking on the bacteria-yeast culture and you will get the best tangy-sweet balance in the form of a mild, bubbly fruit drink.
- Coming to the health department, Water Kefir is a sure-shot star with its probiotics. As many as 70 varieties of microorganisms can be found in the tibicos grains. Probiotics have scientifically backed benefits with the presence of “good bacteria” in them, they help fight off bad bacteria and maintain good health.
- Water Kefir is immensely beneficial for one’s gut health too. The yeasts and bacteria present in it can help in the digestive process, manage blood cholesterol, balance the intestinal flora and more. These qualities vary on the basis of the microorganisms’ amount of presence in the strain.
- The biggest nutritional difference between yoghurt and kefir is that kefir contains more probiotics than yogurt. While yogurt also contains probiotics, kefir is the more potent alternative. Needless to say, to improve digestion or gut health, kefir is the better choice.
- Not to forget its adaptability to all kinds of diets! It is vegan, devoid of any caffeine, and suitable to lactose intolerant folks out there. With a little effort and lots of patience, you can easily make your own beverage and feel independent and healthy.
Wondering where to get started? How about a watermelon flavoured Water Kefir? Here is a simple recipe for this Summer Specialty:
- Order yourself a pack of Water Kefir grains from online stores like Urban Platter, Happy Gut, You Care Lifestyle, or Nature’s Kefir.
- Start the fermentation process by pouring sugary water in the grains, add a few drops of lemon juice in it and relax for two days.
- Get some refreshing watermelon and cut it into large pieces, put it in the juicer and keep the fresh juice aside.
- Mix the watermelon juice with the kefir and enjoy!
As summer approaches in full swing, beat the heat with your own mixes of Kefir and feel good about this healthy choice.
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