A popular anti-inflammatory beverage has been suggested to help soothe your stomach and enhance sleep. Kefir is a fermented probiotic milk drink, akin to yoghurt, packed with live bacteria beneficial for your microbiome.
Dairy-free alternatives are also available. Writer Ana Morales was advised to consume it as an evening drink to calm her stomach before bedtime. Having tried the tipple, she described it in a Vogue article as one of the "best post-dinner recommendations" for soothing both the stomach and mind.
This drink can be found in all major supermarkets like Tesco, Morrisons, and Asda, as well as at other retailers such as Boots and Holland & Barrett. You can even try making your own at home, and it can be incorporated into breakfast or dessert dishes, or used as a dip.
Kefir is also a good source of fibre, aids in relieving constipation, and boosts the immune system's ability to combat viruses and harmful bacteria. It is also linked to lower cholesterol levels. Other benefits include promoting bone density and aiding in weight loss.
However, those watching their calorie intake should note that kefir is relatively high in calories, with approximately 168 calories per 240ml serving, according to information on the Holland & Barrett website. Kefir is made using kefir grains, so it can be prepared with milk substitutes as well as cow's milk.
A study in the Frontiers in Microbiology journal discovered that kefir provides "a multitude of positive effects when consumed". The researchers highlighted a variety of benefits: "These range from improved cholesterol metabolism and wound healing, to the modulation of the immune system and microbiome."
They also discovered kefir's "significant antitumor activity" in combating different types of cancer cells. Health guru Doctor Tim Spector has praised kefir, labelling it as a "probiotic powerhouse" and suggesting having it regularly as part of your breakfast.
He remarked: "Regular consumption of fermented foods, such as kefir, has been associated with favourable effects on the gut microbiome, improving microbial diversity and composition by increasing the relative abundance of 'good' bacteria in the gut." For those looking to explore further, other fermented delights include sauerkraut, kimchi, kombucha, and sourdough bread.
Also included in the fermented category are certain cheeses, like brie de Meaux, alongside meats and sausages such as chorizo or salami.
