Secrets of the Superhuman Food Pyramid: Pros and Cons of Kefir

Kefir is a fermented drink made from the milk of cows, goats, or sheep. It is made by placing the liquid of choice in a non-reactive and acid-proof container, and then directly added with kefir grains, called as such because of their characteristic granulated appearance. The kefir grains, which comprise of a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast, will be agitated in the container twice a day to ensure even exposure to the symbiotic colony so as to produce a creamier drink. After the fermentation process, which usually lasts for 24 hours, the kefir grains are taken out by straining. These can be frozen and used as a starter for subsequent kefir production. The fermented drink can then be consumed as a beverage or as an ingredient in a variety of recipes.

No doubt a healthy drink, moderate consumption of kefir is recommended for a number of reasons.

Read further and discover more about the pros and cons of kefir and why the Superhuman Food Pyramid recommends moderate consumption of this source of hydration to help in your quest to Become Superhuman.

Kefir Benefits:

Kefir has been for centuries taken for its overall positive effects on the immune system. Long known to contain potent amounts of protein and calcium, it is a good source of vitamin K2 as well. A product of bacterial fermentation, vitamin K2 can also be found in other fermented foods and beverages like natto, kimchi, kombucha, and yogurt.

Vitamin K and its class of vitamins like vitamin K2 have long been thought of as only crucial for blood clotting. However, evidence is mounting that vitamin K2 has an array of other functions and has been found essential for optimal brain function. Adequate intake of this particular vitamin has also been found to help lower the odds of developing coronary heart disease. Vitamin K2 intake from food has been linked with reduced risk of developing cancer, and specifically shows preventive and even therapeutic effects on breast cancer and potentially on prostate cancer as well.

Fermented beverages such as kefir have abundant natural sugar enzymes as well. These enzymes aid in breaking down complex sugars in the bowels, resulting in reduced incidence of bloating and gas. The probiotic bacteria in kefir have demonstrated antiallergenic properties as well. And last but not the least, individuals with lactose intolerance may fare better with kefir as it appears consumption improves both tolerance and digestion of lactose.

Kefir Risks:

Kefir naturally contains tyramine and histamine, which are both produced during the process of bacterial fermentation. Individuals with Mastocytosis and therefore have to strictly adhere to a histamine- and tyramine-restricted diet have to steer clear of kefir. Individuals who have histamine intolerance must avoid kefir consumption as well since doing so may result in adverse health effects. Also, those taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors to treat depression must avoid drinking kefir as this fermented drink’s high tyramine content may cause dangerous blood pressure spikes. Both tyramine and histamine are associated with migraines as well and so those who suffer from acute or chronic migraine should stay away from drinking kefir as well.

In the next post, I’ll tell you the pros and cons of sports drinks and why you should drink them moderately to help in your quest to Become Superhuman.

In the meantime, if you care to jump ahead, here is a complete listing of drinks to avoid as well as consume regularly and moderately on the Superhuman Food Pyramid:

Drink:

• Filtered Water
• Soda Water
• Coconut Water
• Kombucha
• Greens Drinks or Powders

Moderate:

• Non-Caffeinated Teas
• Coconut Milk
• Raw, Grass-Fed Cow or Goat’s Milk
• Kefir
• Sports Drinks
• Smoothies (With Natural Ingredients)
• Arabica Coffee Regular and Decaf
• Caffeinated Tea (includes Green Tea)
• Anti-Oxidant Drinks or Powders
• Rice Milk

Avoid:

• Almond Milk
• Red Wine
• Energy Drinks
• Flavored Waters
• Soda
• Soy Milk
• Regular Cow’s Milk
• Instant Coffee
• Blended Coffee
• Lattes
• Mochas
• Beer
• Mixed Drinks
• Hard Alcohol

If you have questions, comments or feedback about the pros and cons of kefir, the Superhuman Food Pyramid, this website, or other aspects of Becoming Superhuman, then leave your thoughts below, as well as any tips you have on the pros and cons of kefir.