Is kefir healthier than yogurt? Experts clear all doubts

Since probiotics such as food to include, yes or yes, in any self-respecting healthy dietWe have seen foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, kombucha and, of course, kefir parade as a product of high nutritional value and almost medicinal properties. Will taking kefir be healthier than taking yogurt?

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What are kefir and yogurt?

Both products are similar, They are considered perfect probiotic foods both to keep the gut microbiota healthy as well as being rich in vitamins and minerals. Both can be confused since they are dairy products that contain live bacteria and are obtained by fermentation.

The nutritionist of the Sensabell clinic, Vanessa Fernandes explains that "the difference between kefir and yogurt is that the latter is a fermentation of lactic acid from milk of animal origin and is made with streptococci and lactobacilli." The main difference between both products would then be their fermentation since the kefir is fermented through the action of a group of yeasts (fungi) and lactobacillus bacteria.. "Kefir can be made from milk or water and is basically fermented by bacteria such as lactobacilli. Fermentation is alcoholic acid, a little alcohol is produced, about one percent "continues Fernades" because of that small amount of alcohol children and pregnant women are not recommended to abuse kefir. "

We are already clear that both probiotic foods are similar except for their fermentation but Which would be healthier of the two? Do they have differences in benefits?

Kefir vs Yogurt

Although they seem similar products, the truth is that kefir usually presents a more liquid appearance and tastes somewhat more acidic than yogurt since it contains, as we said, more lactic acid. Kefir is more digestive, which makes it a more recommended candidate for people who are prone to stomach ailments and indigestion.. It is true that yogurt is also digestive but may still contain lactose after fermentation, an enzyme responsible for possible intolerances or digestive problems. According to the nutritionist from Sensabell “the nutritional properties are the same, they have both probiotics and if they are made without sugar they have the same benefits. For lactose intolerant, fermentation reduces the levels of lactose and can be better tolerated than other types of dairy. "

Both kefir and yogurt would therefore be a very healthy option to keep the gut microbiota healthy. The function of this flora is greater than it seems a priori since It is responsible for strengthening the immune system, keeping diseases away, optimizing metabolic processes and even controlling weight so you should pay attention to this part of the body that has already been earned in the name of "second brain".

According to nutritionist Vanessa Fernandes “if we compare kefir and yogurt these two foods would have the same properties (they both provide calcium, protein and carbohydrates), kefir is attributed many advantages, but in reality they are the same, even if it is fashionable. The downside to yogurt is that sugars and sweeteners are added to it in industrial production. ” According to this last note from the expert We always recommend you to consume yogurt and kefir without additives such as dyes and added sugars, better to always opt for the natural version and prepare it at home to your liking, with fruits, cereals, nuts, seeds … or to make sauces.

If you have trouble digesting lactose, choose kefir, and for children and pregnant women, better not to abuse it and drink yogurt instead. At a nutritional level they are similar so choose the one you like best according to its consistency and its acidity level. Enjoy your probiotics at home by including them in your diet on a regular basis to keep your microbiota healthy, it is the best you can do for your health.