[Lifestyle] Deep diving into a ‘magical form’ of coconut known for its ‘incredible health benefits’

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Considering the need to consume foods and beverages that help power up the immune system and overall health, we are always on the lookout for the best ones. And on this quest, we often come across certain lesser-known items, too! Today, we are here to tell you about one such discovery that is becoming po[CENSORED]r due to its “incredible health benefits“.

Lovneet Batra, a dietitian, took to Instagram to share how coconut kefir, made with kefir grains — which is a rich source of calcium, protein, and B vitamins — and coconut water, is extremely healthy.

“The coconut is a magical food in almost every way you can imagine. We have also come a long way in how we enjoy coconut. But beyond these healthier forms of coconut lies a magical form that many of us do not know about or even think to consider using in our daily routines,” she wrote, further mentioning coconut kefir (which is simply coconut water, fermented with kefir grains), a beverage that is becoming “more and more po[CENSORED]r due to its incredible health benefits.”

*Immune system booster – Coconut kefir is one of the best probiotic foods around, and we know probiotics are the special forces of the microbial world. It contains large amounts of Lactobacillus Kefiri, which helps defend against harmful bacteria like salmonella and E. Coli. Kefir has also shown the ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

*Improves bone health – Coconut water kefir contains about as much potassium as a banana. Potassium can help prevent the loss of bone mineral density and reduce risk of osteoporosis.

*Heals skin– When our gut is out of whack, it can send signals to our skin that disrupt its natural balance and cause all sorts of problems like acne rashes, psoriasis, and eczema. Kefir helps bring good bacteria back to the forefront and supports the health of our largest organ, the skin.

Garima Goyal, a registered dietitian, mentioned that like dairy kefir, made with fermented cow, goat or sheep milk, coconut kefir also acts as a fuel for the healthy gut bacteria.

Agreed Dr Priyanka Rohatgi, chief clinical dietician, Apollo Hospitals, Bangalore and said that kefir aids in the growth of beneficial bacteria in our gut. “These good bacteria fight the harmful bacteria and infections in the gut. They also help stimulate digestion and boost your immune system. Coconut water kefir is packed with potassium that helps prevent the loss of bone mineral density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. High dietary potassium is associated with reduced risk of stroke and reduced incidence of death,” Dr Rohatgi told indianexpress.com.

According to Dr Rohatgi, the good bacteria in the product also helps in managing diarrhea, urinary tract infections, respiratory infections, bacterial vaginal infections, and some aspects of inflammatory bowel disease.

How to make it?

This nutritious and tasty beverage can be easily prepared at home. “All you have to do is buy a packet of kefir grains and combine it with water from four green coconuts. Leave it untouched for a day till it becomes milkier and has bubbles on the top,” Goyal said.

First fermentation

*Put the kefir grains in a jar and pour coconut water on it.
*Cover the jar.
*Let the mixture stand for up to 48 hours at room temperature. “If you are fermenting the kefir in a warm room, the process may be quicker than 48 hours,” said Goyal.
*Strain the kefir with a cheesecloth and reserve the grains for a second fermentation. “This step makes your coconut water kefir fizzy,” said Goyal.

Second fermentation

*Mix coconut kefir and with any fresh berry juice for flavour. Pour into a tight-sealing bottle.
*Allow the coconut kefir to ferment for up to 48 hours or until it’s fizzy.
*Store your bottles of coconut water kefir in the refrigerator.

Goyal also pointed out that compared with dairy kefir which is heavier, creamier and richer, “coconut kefir is a lighter alternative”.

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/coconut-kefir-recipe-benefits-constipation-gut-probiotic-8334086/