Yogurt versus kefir

[Guest guest]

This current discussion on probiotics prompted me to post this from

http://www.kefir.net/kefiryogurt.htm

" Both kefir and yogurt are cultured milk products...

....but they contain different types of beneficial bacteria. Yogurt contains

transient beneficial bacteria that keep the digestive system clean and provide

food for the friendly bacteria that reside there. But kefir can actually

colonize the intestinal tract, a feat that yogurt cannot match.

Kefir contains several major strains of friendly bacteria not commonly found in

yogurt, Lactobacillus Caucasus, Leuconostoc, Acetobacter species, and

Streptococcus species.

It also contains beneficial yeasts, such as Saccharomyces kefir and Torula

kefir, which dominate, control and eliminate destructive pathogenic yeasts in

the body. They do so by penetrating the mucosal lining where unhealthy yeast and

bacteria reside, forming a virtual SWAT team that housecleans and strengthens

the intestines. Hence, the body becomes more efficient in resisting such

pathogens as E. coli and intestinal parasites.

Kefir's active yeast and bacteria provide more nutritive value than yogurt by

helping digest the foods that you eat and by keeping the colon environment clean

and healthy.

Because the curd size of kefir is smaller than yogurt, it is also easier to

digest, which makes it a particularly excellent, nutritious food for babies, the

elderly and people experiencing chronic fatigue and digestive disorders. "

And from http://www.kefir.net/nutrit.htm

" More than just beneficial bacteria!

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 abundant in

kefir, is well known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. Because

kefir also offers an abundance of calcium and magnesium, which are also

important minerals for a healthy nervous system, kefir in the diet can have a

particularly profound calming effect on the nerves.

Kefir's ample supply of phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in our

bodies, helps utilize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for cell growth,

maintenance and energy.

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. The numerous benefits of maintaining

adequate B vitamin intake range from regulation of the kidneys, liver and

nervous system to helping relieve skin disorders, boost energy and promote

longevity. "

I have been drinking kefir for the past month and have felt a marked improvement

in my health (and I was pretty healthy before from 3 yrs on raw milk and cod

liver oil and pastured eggs and other whole foods,etc.). I am almost 8 months

pregnant (and 34 yrs old) and my energy levels improved after starting on kefir.

Elissa