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You have probably already come across this name in store aisles or on Instagram: kefir, this fermented drink that promises wonders for our immunity. But honestly, is it a real health shield or just another trend in the wellness world?
Kefir: an ancestral fizz with a unique taste
This drink is a somewhat effervescent cousin of drinkable yogurt, with that little tangy taste that surprises. It is made from kefir grains, those little strange pearls full of yeasts and bacteria. It is this microbial mix that gives it its punch.
In 2025, it continues to seduce, especially those looking to improve their digestion and immunity naturally. Its success is somewhat reminiscent of kombucha, the sparkling fermented drink.
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Probiotics galore, but not all equal
Kefir contains about fifty different strains of bacteria and yeasts. Sounds like a dream team for your microbiota, right? Except… we don’t yet know which strains really work to strengthen our immune system.
Dr. Jean-Jacques Raynaud, gastroenterologist, reminds us that the effects can vary from one bottle to another and from one recipe to another. This bacterial melting pot is fascinating but also somewhat scientifically unclear.
For now, we therefore keep a touch of skepticism: kefir promises a lot, but its real immune virtues still need to be proven by solid studies. Don’t consider it a magic potion (even if you sometimes dream of it).
Kefir, a friend to your gut and your immunity?
It is clear that probiotics play a role in digestion, promoting a balanced microbiota. And a healthy microbiota means a more capable immune system to block intruders. That holds true.
However, every body is unique, and kefir, with its microbial diversity, can act differently depending on the person. A kind of delicate partnership between you and these little living bacteria.
In 2025, research continues on these famous microbe-health-immunity links. Meanwhile, including kefir in one’s diet remains a good option, provided you don’t expect an instant miracle.
Consume kefir, but with caution
If you like the taste, that’s already something. One or two glasses a day can fit into a healthy diet without issue. But drinking too much can cause discomfort like bloating.
Another important detail: this drink contains a bit of natural alcohol due to fermentation and especially living bacteria. So, pregnant women and people with a fragile immune system would do better to abstain as a precaution.
Kefir, an asset among others for top immunity
Between us, immunity is not just about a drink, no matter how trendy it is. Kefir is a nice companion, but it does not replace a healthy lifestyle: sleep, physical activity, a balanced diet with fruits and vegetables.
So, why not see it as a little extra touch in your routine, a bit like a favorite playlist that boosts your mood? Kefir can provide a slight boost, but the real strength mainly comes from your lifestyle habits.
Does kefir suit everyone?
Not really. Pregnant women and immunocompromised individuals should avoid kefir because of the live bacteria and the natural alcohol it contains.
How much kefir can you drink per day?
One to two glasses per day are enough to include this drink in a balanced diet without risk of bloating.
Is kefir really better than yogurt?
It contains more varieties of probiotics than classic yogurt, but its health effects still need scientific confirmation.
Can kefir replace medicines to boost immunity?
Absolutely not. It is a natural dietary supplement and should not replace medical treatment or good hygiene practices.
How to recognize good kefir?
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Prefer natural kefir, minimally processed, with visible grains, and if possible homemade to guarantee freshness and probiotic diversity.
