Fat-free kefir: benefits and harms
Fat-free kefir: benefits and harms
Anonim

All types of dairy products contain useful substances that improve the overall tone of the body. Kefir is an indispensable product not only for adherents of proper nutrition, but also for people suffering from diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and cardiovascular system.

Low-fat dairy products are quickly digested and do not leave heaviness in the stomach. Everyone knows that a glass of yogurt is the best dinner. Due to its low calorie content, the drink is used for weight loss purposes, and the richness of useful substances makes it an excellent snack for athletes.

On the shelves of supermarkets you can find dairy products of different fat content. Processed kefir seems to be the most useful option, however, it has a number of disadvantages that should not be overlooked. After all, many nutritionists advise to prefer unprocessed foods.

Useful substances

Kefir is rich in minerals and vitamins even more than ordinary milk, as many of them are formed during the fermentation process. The product is rich in calcium, which helps strengthen bones, teeth and nails, and choline, which helps to normalize cholesterol levels. ExceptIn addition, kefir contains potassium, phosphorus, manganese, chromium and copper in small concentrations.

Fat-free kefir
Fat-free kefir

The drink contains a significant amount of vitamins A, E, H, C, D and group B. The bacteria and amino acids contained in kefir have a positive effect on the body.

Nutritional value

All dairy products are rich in nutrients. However, the body absorbs the proteins contained in low-fat kefir better than those that we get through ordinary milk.

When choosing a drink, it is important to pay attention to the packaging with the nutritional value table. There are no noticeable differences between kefir of different types, even in the number of calories contained.

Nutritional substances (per 100 g)

0% 2, 5% 3, 2%
Proteins 2, 8g 2, 8g 2, 8g
Fats 0, 3 g 2.5g 3, 2 g
Carbohydrates 4, 0 g 4, 0 g 4, 0 g
Calories 30 kcal 50 kcal 55 kcal

Benefits of natural kefir

It's important to understand that low-percentage dairy products are not necessarily he althy. Fats are just as importantsubstance like proteins and carbohydrates. Insufficient use of this component can lead to a deterioration in the general condition of the body, metabolic disorders and diseases of the cardiovascular system. Many experts believe that an ordinary drink has a better effect on the body than fat-free kefir. The benefits and harms of the latter have their own nuances.

best low fat kefir
best low fat kefir

Positive Impact

The useful substances contained in the product have a positive effect on the state of the body and help to cope with many diseases. Regular consumption of kefir helps to remove toxins from the body, and the bacteria contained in it will help improve metabolism and restore microflora. For this reason, the drink is recommended for people with gastrointestinal disorders. The product also strengthens the immune system, helps to cope with sleep disorders and nervous disorders.

In particular, fat-free kefir (0-1%) has some features of the effect on the body. It is much lighter than an ordinary drink and is recommended for use by the elderly, as well as patients with atherosclerosis, hypertension and obesity.

The effect of fat-free kefir on the figure

Dairy based diets are very popular. The calorie content of fat-free kefir is low - from 25 to 35 kcal per 100 grams, and therefore it can be safely consumed for dinner or as a snack. In addition, the product improves metabolism and promotes the destruction of extra pounds. There are many diets using this drink. Alsoit is useful to arrange fasting days on which it is allowed to use exclusively low-fat kefir. This is a great way to cleanse the body of excess toxins.

Drink fat-free kefir
Drink fat-free kefir

People involved in sports are recommended to drink fat-free kefir after exercise. The fact is that dairy products contain a large amount of proteins that are actively involved in increasing muscle mass.

Harm fat-free kefir

The product itself cannot negatively affect the body of an adult he althy person, but there are a number of contraindications. In addition to allergy sufferers, kefir should not be drunk by those who are sick with ulcers, pancreatitis and gastritis with an increased level of acidity, as it irritates the walls of the stomach. In addition, it is not recommended to give a drink to a child in large quantities due to the high concentration of s alts in it, especially for babies under 8 months old. It is advisable to purchase dairy products for children with a special label.

Fat-free kefir. Benefit and harm
Fat-free kefir. Benefit and harm

Fat-free kefir does not bring as much benefit to the body as natural, as it contains fewer vitamins, so doctors recommend drinking an ordinary drink for people who have no contraindications. In addition, in the process of its preparation, the amount of natural substances in the liquid is reduced. Processed kefir contains trans fats, which in large doses contribute to the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system.

When is it good to drink kefir?

Product renders miscellaneouseffects on the body (depending on the time of its storage). In case of stomach diseases associated with a high level of acidity, it is important to consider that the longer kefir is stored, the more acidic it becomes. A fresh drink has a laxative effect, while a three-day drink strengthens. Considering that kefir in packages contains various additives, this rule is more likely to apply to a product prepared at home.

Fat-free kefir, yogurt
Fat-free kefir, yogurt

Alternative uses

Fat-free kefir can be used not only as a drink, but also as an ingredient for diet meals. The product is used as a base for smoothies and light desserts. It can also be used as a salad dressing instead of oil and harmful additives. In addition, fat-free kefir is an effective ingredient in natural hair and face masks. It is good for people with oily skin.

Calorie fat-free kefir
Calorie fat-free kefir

How to choose kefir?

When buying dairy products, it is important to pay attention to the label. If the composition of a natural drink can be predicted, then fat-free kefir may contain harmful additives. The fact is that in the process of processing the product loses its taste, which is often compensated by various substances - flavors and sweeteners. Together with fats, the liquid loses its thick consistency, which is why manufacturers add starch, gum, pectin and agar to the drink.

The best fat-free kefir contains only milk and sourdough. The liquid must behomogeneous - without lumps and layers. It is important to pay attention to the name of the product on the package - although the kefir product contains beneficial bacteria, it has significant differences from a natural drink. The expiration date on the label should not exceed seven days - this indicates that harmful preservatives have not been added to the liquid.

Skimmed milk kefir
Skimmed milk kefir

How to make your own drink?

Fat-free kefir, yogurt and other dairy products can be made at home if you buy a starter culture in the store. Instead, an already prepared product is also used. It is necessary to purchase a starter exclusively based on kefir fungi. It requires certain storage conditions, which are indicated on the packaging.

To make a light kefir, skimmed milk as a base will be enough - no re-processing is necessary. Of the dishes for cooking, you only need a saucepan and a jar. First you need to boil the milk and let it cool to 30-40 degrees, and then add the right amount of sourdough to the pan. The resulting liquid must be poured into a jar, wrapped in a towel and put in a warm place. Kefir will be ready in a day.

Recommended: