Australian Researchers Conduct Comprehensive Analysis of Kefir Intake
Observe Changes in Gut Microbiome and Reduction in Cavity-Causing Bacteria
Recent research has shown that consuming kefir (a fermented milk beverage) is effective not only for gut health but also for oral health. In groups that consumed kefir, both changes in the composition of gut microbiota and a reduction in the main bacteria responsible for cavities were observed, positioning kefir as a next-generation functional fermented food.
Kefir, which originated in the long-living villages of the Caucasus region, is a natural fermented dairy product made by fermenting kefir grains-a combination of lactic acid bacteria and yeast. It is produced by fermenting milk, water, or plant-based ingredients. Because these microbial communities can alter the human microbiome-the ecosystem of microorganisms within the body-kefir has attracted attention as a functional food.
Improvement in Gut Microbiome Health... Reduction in Cavity-Causing Bacteria
Australian researchers recently published a paper in the international journal 'Nutrients,' stating that "kefir consumption induces positive changes in both gut and oral microbiome composition." The research team conducted a comprehensive analysis of microbial changes before and after kefir intake, focusing on previously conducted human studies. They compared results from randomized controlled clinical trials and observational studies, covering a wide range of subjects from healthy adults to groups with metabolic syndrome or inflammatory diseases.
The results showed a tendency for changes in the relative abundance of lactic acid bacteria in the gut microbiome. Some studies also reported improvements in gut microbial health indices and positive changes in clinical markers such as fasting insulin, inflammatory markers, and blood pressure. Notably, these changes were more pronounced in groups with metabolic syndrome or certain diseases.
More consistent results were observed in the oral microbial environment. Kefir consumption reduced the concentration of Streptococcus mutans-a major cavity-causing bacterium-in the saliva of both adults and children. This suggests that kefir may also play a role in oral health management.
The Key Is the Combined Action of Lactic Acid Bacteria and Yeast
The research team identified the combined action of lactic acid bacteria and yeast in kefir as the underlying mechanism for these effects. These microorganisms compete with existing microbes, helping to rebalance the gut and oral ecosystems, and inhibit the adhesion of Streptococcus mutans to tooth surfaces. Additionally, they can help neutralize the acidic environment, making it harder for cavity-causing bacteria to thrive.
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