Probiotics have been known as a way to add beneficial bacteria into the body.

 One natural source of probiotics, which has been recognized around the world for its remarkable health benefits has now made its way to Jamaica – a cultured dairy drink, kefir.

Natural Kefir Limited is the first local producer of kefir in Jamaica. The probiotic drink is made from locally sourced cow’s milk using organic kefir grains, which form of yeast/ bacterial fermentation; similar to the healthy bacteria found in the body. Its taste is mildly sour and similar to plain yogurt.

Founder of Natural Kefir Limited, Uliana Afanasenko said, “Kefir has been a part of my life routine for as long as I can remember. As a child, I enjoyed drinking kefir. At the time, I was unaware of all the health benefits that kefir offered, but including kefir in my diet resulted in a healthy lifestyle that has carried into adulthood.”

After visiting Jamaica in 2010 to escape the Russian cold, Afanasenko fell in love with the people and culture and made it her new home. While traveling around the world and moving here, she realized that kefir products did not exist in all countries and many people were missing out on all of the health benefits that kefir provides.

“Jamaicans might be more accustomed to getting their probiotics in pill form, however as a  natural source, kefir is more effective to strengthen the immune system and help with various digestive problems such as acid reflux, ulcers, indigestion, constipation and diarrhea,” shared Afanasenko.

Interestingly, while kefir is a dairy-based product the lactose is broken down during the fermentation process making it easily digestible for 99% of people who are lactose intolerant. Kefir helps the body to naturally produce histamine that reduces allergy symptoms and fight sinuses.

In addition to being excellent for your digestive system, probiotics are key to maintaining a well-balanced gut microbiome. Up to 80 percent of the cells that make up the immune system are located in the gut, so the probiotics in kefir help to boost the function of immune system and promote better metabolic health. Kefir is also recommended for pregnant women as probiotics will help to reduce the risk of passing allergies, asthma and eczema to the child by 50%.

Afanasenko shared some of the other benefits of Natural Kefir probiotic drink that include: aiding in weight control, regulating blood pressure, lowers the risk of osteoporosis, improves hair growth and is also a source of calcium and protein.

“Natural Kefir is safe for children over one year old. It also particular good for kids who were born via cesarean section or were not breast fed so they can replenish stomach bacteria they would have missed out on receiving during a natural birth. Adding Natural Kefir to their diet will also will make them less vulnerable to infections.”

Natural Kefir came on the market in April of this year. Afanasenko added, “We are currently available in supermarkets and stores across Kingston, Portmore and St. Ann including Lemongrass Devon House; General Foods Supermarket, CPJ Market, Loshusan Supermarket, and The Life Store; with the plan to distribute island-wide. We are also developing a water-based kefir so our vegan friends can enjoy the benefits of Natural Kefir as well.”