Kefir and IBD - Mythbuster
The Myth: “Kefir can cure IBD”
The Truth: Kefir can’t cure IBD, but may have some beneficial effects on symptoms particularly in Crohn’s. Lets look at the details……
What is kefir?
Kefir is a sour carbonated and fermented probiotic product (drink/food). Kefir is made using kefir ‘grains’ and liquid, usually dairy (goats or cows). The ‘grains’ are a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeast.
Is kefir beneficial?
Research has shown that fermented foods containing living microbes could add beneficial bacteria to the digestive tract and enhance the gut microbiome which we know is beneficial for our health, and potentially beneficial in IBD.
Is kefir good for IBD?
There has been one very small trial, during which patients were given 400 ml of kefir twice a day for 4 weeks – it contained a total of 2.0×1010 CFU/mL viable Lactobacillus bacteria. Results showed a statistically significant decrease in bloating, pain and CRP, and an increase in feel good scores in those with Crohn’s disease but not ulcerative colitis, when compared to the control group in the trial (those that received nothing). There were however limitations to this trial (small sample size, not blinded etc.)
Should I drink kefir if I have IBD?
We know that kefir and fermented foods seem to have a positive impact on our gut health and there is some very small initial research to suggests kefir may have some beneficial effects in Crohns.
If you like it then kefir can certainly form part of a healthy balanced diet to help support IBD. As well as probiotic bacteria, it contains important nutrients like protein, calcium, and B12. You could try it in homemade smoothies, as a snack, or with some berries and low sugar granola at breakfast.
NB: If you have a dairy allergy or intolerance kefir is not suitable, but those with lactose intolerance may be able to tolerate it as it has very low levels of lactose.
I have written a free e-book to help you find a way forward for your everyday life with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Whether you are right at the beginning of your journey with IBD or have been living with your condition for years and feel like you have tried almost everything, there are things you can do everyday, beyond the medication you are taking, to help you take back control.
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We are all wonderfully unique and what works for one person may not work for another so please seek help and advice before changing your diet to work out the right way forward for you.