A guide to water kefir, a powerful probiotic

blood regulation, immune defence and weight management. Research has shown that there are many different health benefits that come as a result of drinking water kefir, which are as follows:

Boost immune function

Due to its high concentration of good bacteria, regularly consuming water kefir can help to boost your immune system. The high probiotic content can aid in reducing inflammation and help fight off less friendly bacteria that may attack your immune system during illness. 

Rich in beneficial bacteria

Studies have shown that one glass of water kefir contains up to 2.5 billion good microorganisms, with the main categories being yeast, lactic acid and acetic acid. These diverse microorganisms have many positive probiotic benefits that can help to restore the natural balance of bacteria in the gut. 

May help fight cancer cells

While research surrounding this claim is limited to test-tube studies, some research on the benefits of water kefir suggests that it has the potential to decrease the growth of certain types of cancer. One particular study found that kefir was effective at blocking the growth of breast cancer cells and others have shown that it could be beneficial against colon and blood cancer as well. However, more research is still needed around this topic before scientific claims can be made on how kefir may impact the growth and development of cancer cells.

Suitable for all diets

Unlike traditional kefir which is made from milk, water kefir is naturally dairy-free, making it suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or following a vegan diet. Water kefir is also naturally caffeine free unlike other probiotic drinks such as kombucha, therefore it is the perfect drink for those looking for the benefits of probiotic drinks without the effects of caffeine.

How is water kefir made?

Water kefir is very easy to make and follows a simple fermentation process. Combining sugar water and water kefir grains, this mixture is left to ferment for 24-48 hours until the sugar levels decrease and gut-friendly flora increases. This then turns into a lightly effervescent probiotic beverage that is rich in beneficial bacteria.

Water kefir can be easily made at home into a variety of flavoured beverages. If you wish to make this powerful probiotic drink at home follow these steps:

• In a jar, combine ½ cup of hot water with ¼ cup of sugar and mix until dissolved
• Add 2 cups of room-temperature water to the jar along with the water kefir grains
• Cover and place in a warm area between 20-30°C and leave to ferment for 24-48 hours
• After 48 hours, the kefir grains can then be separated from the mixture and used again for a new batch, leaving behind the completed water kefir beverage
• At this point, you can choose to add various flavourings such as fruit juice, mint leaves or vanilla extract to create as many refreshing combinations as you like.

London Fermentary Water Kefir Calming Lavender and PiQi Fermented Kefir Water Original Fig  

One of our favourite female-founded brands, London Fermentary, has created a varied range of probiotic drinks including a collection of refreshing kefir waters. Designed to boost your immune system and aid in digestive health, London Fermentary believes in brewing the very best kefir that is raw, botanical and full of live bacteria. This particular flavour contains a calming lavender blend that may aid feelings of anxiety and promote a good night's sleep, all whilst benefitting your gut health. Available to shop in any of our Planet Organic stores, London Fermentary kefir water is a must for those looking to improve their health.

PiQi is another great brand that specialises in creating uniquely flavoured probiotic drinks including this fig kefir water. Brewed in small batches in Devon, this water kefir is raw, unpasteurised and contains billions of live cultures to provide the most beneficial bacteria to your gut. Blended with organic figs for a honey-like aroma and slightly fruity flavour, this kefir water is the perfect way to boost your immune health.

Discover the benefits of probiotic beverages at Planet Organic

If you’re looking for more probiotic beverages to help boost your immune system and support gut health, browse through our full collection of organic drinks here at Planet Organic. From kombucha to kefir yoghurt drinks and pure juice shots, we’ve got a varied range of organic beverages suited to your health needs.