What is Water Kefir?
If you’re one of those geeks like me who are obsessed about all things fermented, then you’ve probably stumbled across water kefir, a delicious carbonated beverage without the guilt of a regular soda.
Although milk and water kefir bear similar names, they are different and separate cultures. If you haven’t read our article on milk kefir, click here!
Like milk kefir, water kefir is a by-product of fermentation.
More specifically, fermentation of sugar water with the help of water kefir grains. And just like milk kefir grains, water kefir grains aren’t actual grains, but rather a cluster of yeast and bacteria living in a symbiotic relationship. Water kefir grains look like little crystals or ‘grains’ if you will, of jelly.
They are known by a variety of different names such as tibicos, Japanese water crystals, California bees and the list goes on…It is said that no two cultures are exactly the same. Due to the highly active nature of the bacteria and the yeasts, there can be many variations of water kefir grains.
The Origins of Water Kefir
The history of water kefir remains a mystery. It’s hard to pinpoint just how far back mankind has been using these grains due to the lack of recorded historical documents, but it is at least a couple of centuries, if not longer.
There are speculations that it first appeared in Mexico. Mexico is home to the Opuntia cactus, and research has found that water kefir cultures are formed on the pads of these cacti, appearing as hard granules.
These granules can be reconstituted in a sugar-water solution as propagating water kefir. There are also documented accounts from the late 1800s of water kefir grains being used to produced fermented drinks made from the naturally sugar-saturated water of the Opuntia cactus.
Besides that, water kefir grains have also been reportedly used in close vicinity to where milk kefir grains are speculated to have originated, the Caucasus Mountains.
How to Use Water Kefir Grains
Regardless of what name used, the mystery surrounding its origins or the exact composition of the culture, the technique for making water kefir stays the same throughout the world.
Just add some sugar water and patiently wait for them to culture at room temperature for a day or two.
After that, you’ll be able to enjoy a fizzy, fermented beverage!
Which is better, WATER or MILK Kefir?
Water Kefir Benefits 1: Easier and CHEAPER to produce
The ingredients required are simply water and sugar, and a little patience.
You could also get creative by substituting water and sugar with coconut water or fruit juice.
I put a link to a step by step video at the end on how to make your own water kefir, so read on!
Water Kefir Benefits 2: A great NON-DAIRY option
Since water kefir is made using sugar water, it’s a good option for those who choose to avoid dairy for health concerns, dietary restrictions or personal reasons.
For those following a vegan diet, it’s perfect for bumping up probiotic consumption and boosting gut health while minimizing consumption of animal products.
Water Kefir Benefits 3: Great source of PROBIOTICS
Probiotics are created by the water kefir culture feeding on the sugar. Although not as rich in probiotics as milk kefir, water kefir can still help to restore the gut microbiome, improve your digestive health and boost your immune system.
A perfect companion for those wanting to up their fitness game!
Water Kefir Benefits 4: A great ALTERNATIVE to SODA
After the fermentation process, most of the sugar has disappeared from the water kefir solution.
This makes it a great alternative to high sugar, acidic fizzy drinks.
In addition to less sugar, you will also get the benefits of 10-15 strains of beneficial bacteria, some vitamins and minerals, and no added chemicals.
So it’s the perfect fizzy drink alternative to kids (and adults).
Plus, with the hot and humid Malaysian weather, it’s the perfect refreshing beverage to quench anyone’s thirst!
Disadvantages of Water Kefir
Disadvantages of Water Kefir 1: Might not be suitable for those with diabetes or candida
Since there are still traces of sugar, water kefir might not be a suitable option for those suffering with diabetes or candida.
Disadvantages of Water Kefir 2: Not as nutritionally dense as milk kefir
Milk kefir is a more potent source of beneficial yeast and bacteria. It contains more vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and calcium.
Disadvantages of Water Kefir 3: Might contain traces of alcohol
Water kefir might contain traces of alcohol especially if the fermentation period goes on for too long whereas Milk kefir does not contain alcohol.
Conclusion?
Milk kefir and water kefir can both be part of a healthy and balanced diet.
However, if you have objections against dairy, or if you’re looking for an alternative to sugary commercial sodas, then water kefir is the PERFECT solution to quench your thirst while adding more probiotics to your diet.
If you’d like to make your own water kefir, here’s where you can buy active water kefir grains and below is the step by step video guide!
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Your information is wrong. Milk kefir does contain small amounts of alcohol.