The health benefits of kefir

Kefir is a fermented drink made using kefir grains. Kefir grains are not actually grains but small gelatinous beads that contain a variety of bacteria and yeasts.

Although traditionally kefir was a milk-based drink, a little like a sour, slightly fizzy, runny yoghurt, you can also make a non-dairy option using water kefir. Water kefir and milk kefir differ not just in their use, but water kefir also has fewer bacteria and yeast strains.

You can purchase a variety of kefir drinks commercially but it is simple to make at home too. The grains can be used indefinitely; simply add them to milk or a sugar solution and leave to ferment in a warm place for 24-48 hours.

Kefir has numerous health benefits due to the probiotics it contains. It helps with gut health, improves digestion and can help with treating IBS and diarrhoea.