Day 71- Coconut Kefir

What is kefir?

Kefir is a drink made by fermenting either cow's or goat milk or coconut water or coconut milk. It has a distinct tart and refreshing flavor, which has been explained to be similar to drinking yogurt. It contains beneficial yeast as well as friendly bacteria (probiotics).

The naturally occurring bacteria and yeast that grow during the fermentation process give amazing health benefits to all kinds of conditions. Even those who are lactose intolerant, can usually enjoy kefir, since the abundance of beneficial yeast and bacteria provide the enzyme lactase, which consumes most of the lactose during the culturing process.

According to Kefir.net:

"Kefir is easly digested, it cleanses the intestines, provides beneficial bacteria and yeast, minerals, and vitamins, and complete proteins. Because kefir is such a balanced and nourishing food, it contributes to a healthy immune system. Its tranquilizing effect on the nervous system has benefited many who suffer from sleep disorders, depression, and ADHD.

The regular use of kefir can help relive all intestinal disorders, promote bowel movement, reduce flatulence and create a healthier digestive system. In addition, its cleansing effect on the whole body helps to establish a balanced inner ecosystem for optimum health and longevity.

Kefir can also help eliminate unhealthy food cravings by making the body more nourished and balanced. It's excellent nutritional content offers healing and health-maintenance benefits to people in every type of condition."

There are several ways to make coconut kefir; making coconut milk kefir is probably the easiest. All you really need is a can of organic coconut milk, and the kefir grains. Coconut water kefir made with young green coconuts, is just harder to find, but I believe that the health benefits are even better. Still all you will need is the actual coconuts and the kefir grains.

So what are kefir grains and how do you get them?

The kefir "grains" are actually active live cultures consisting of yeast and bacteria and have received the name grains only due to their appearance. You can also buy a powdered starter culture, but in the long run this can end up being more costly. You can purchase the grain or powdered starter kits from various websites, a good site to find them is bodyecology.com.

Young Coconut Kefir water or Coconut Milk Kefir

• Add either the water from about four young (green) coconuts or a can of organic coconut milk with one package of starter or 2 Tablespoons of kefir grains into a glass container
• Cover top with a kitchen cloth and secure with a rubber band
• Set aside in a non-drafty place, preferably somewhere warm
• Let sit for 24 hours
• Strain the grains out of the kefir and place in the fridge
• You will know when it's done (usually after another day) because it will have a slight tangy flavor, like yogurt.
• If you would like to reuse the kefir grains you can store them in the refrigerator in a glass of cow's milk.

Helpful Hints:

• Don't store the grains in coconut milk between batches, store in cow's milk
• Never use a metal container or spoon in the process of making kefir, this can disrupt the process and will cause the kefir to not thicken.
• If your kefir does not thicken within 24 hours, your house may not be warm enough, preferably the temperature should be between 68-85 degrees F
• If your first batch of kefir does not turn out the way you like, it could just take a few times for the kefir grains to acclimate to the coconut milk.
• If the kefir ever has a foul or unpleasant smell, throw it out

For more information on making kefir and a step by step guide with pictures, check out this website for Body Ecology.

Pura Vida!

Alica Ryan, NTP