A Healthy Turkish Drink: Kefir

Famous among many nations, kefir is one of Turkey’s most famous and healthiest drinks. This bitter and sour tasting drink is made out of special yeasts and the fermentation process of the kefir grains. Basically, kefir is made out of the combination of different types of milk gathered from cows, goats, or sheep and the kefir grain, which is a particular type of symbiotic culture. One more thing that makes kefir this special is its low lactose values. As lactose is broken into different chemicals during its fermentation process, it provides less lactose content when compared to other dairy products. This symbiotic culture was greatly appreciated by the common folk, mostly in the North Caucus. With its cauliflower-like structure, it was believed that the drink made out of this grain, kefir, had incredible healing powers and was used with great care.

Kefir has its own place in various cultures, but the homeland and superior production of such known kefir is credited to Karachay and Balkar Turkic families. Karachay family was among the most famous families that produced kefir with utmost care. Production of kefir dates as early as the 18^th century. Kefir gained popularity during the 20^th century when a man with a Turkish background who lived in Russia sent her wife to sell this mesmerizing drink in Moscow. Kefir then saw its prominent rise in the whole world. It became one of the most consumed beverages in the Soviet Union and shared its influence in Europe, United States, and especially Japan. Now, kefir is extensively used globally, but Turkey is one of the countries that produce significant amounts of kefir.

As kefir is a dairy product on its own basis, its main benefit comes from its power to strengthen bones. Kefir is recommended for people of all ages in order to keep a firm and strong bone structure. Along with its benefits to the bones, kefir has rich values of different types of minerals and calcium that are needed for the human body. Especially during childhood, kefir acts in incredible ways for kids to build up their bone structure, growth, and immunity in the healthiest way. Apart from kids, consumption of kefir prevents the elderly from suffering from bone-sourced diseases such as osteoporosis.

This magnificent drink comes with countless benefits and is recommended to be consumed by everyone, but make sure to be advised about your kefir consumption to a medical professional. Let us take a brief look at some of the most incredible benefits of kefir consumption: Kefir regulates and organizes your digestive system, prevents muscle spasms, empowers the nerve system, strengthens your immunity system, cleans out blood, prevents anemia and produces high amount of blood, cleans your skin, helps you lose weight, lowers down cholesterol levels, treats many lung and liver-based diseases, helps migraine, establishes a better sleep quality, speeds up your recoveries, and many more.

Kefir is a dairy product that is easily reachable as it is found in almost all Turkish markets. Kefir holds an essential place in Turkish culture and the production of such beverage is briefly respected among the common folk. As packaged ready-to-drink kefirs are sold in markets, you can also find kefir grain easily here in Turkey, so you could make it the way you prefer. Also, kefir is used in many different dishes such as soups, bread, and salads. If you wish to add something healthy to your diet, kefir is your best choice.