Le kéfir est une boisson fermentée à base de lait ou d’eau, devenue populaire ces dernières années en raison de ses nombreux avantages pour la santé. Originaire du Caucase, on en consomme depuis l’Antiquité.
This fizzy, tart drink is made from kefir grains. The grains resemble small cauliflower heads for milk kefir and small crystals for water kefir.
It contains probiotics, those living microorganisms that notably improve the balance of the gut microbiota and, by extension, our immunity.
Indeed, kefir is made up of lactic bacteria (notably Lactobacillus), yeasts and acetic acid bacteria that make up its microbiota. It is therefore a living beverage, highly appreciated by our gut.
Riche en probiotiques, en vitamines et en minéraux, il serait un excellent choix pour réduire l’inflammation, maintenir un système immunitaire fort et améliorer la digestion. Mais le kéfir serait-il également bénéfique pour les personnes atteintes d’arthrose ?
Also read | The best dietary supplements to relieve joint pain, according to a pharmacist
Osteoarthritis: between wear and inflammation
Joint wear and tear
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease characterized by progressive wear of the cartilage that covers the ends of the bones.
This wear leads to pain, joint stiffness, and reduced mobility.
When inflammation worsens pain
L’arthrose peut parfois s’accompagner d’inflammation locale.
This inflammation, generally mild and localized, is caused by the body’s reaction to damage to the cartilage and surrounding tissues. It may manifest as increased pain, redness, and slight swelling of the affected joint.
The presence of inflammation in osteoarthritis can accelerate the progression of the disease and increase the risk of long-term complications. It is therefore essential to manage osteoarthritis holistically by treating both pain and inflammation.
The effects of kefir on osteoarthritis
Rich in probiotics
Kefir contains probiotics, healthy bacteria that our body needs to defend itself. These bacteria populate our microbiota and play an important role: aiding intestinal transit, digestion, the synthesis of certain vitamins, and the immune system.
A scientific publication in the European Journal of Nutrition indicates that probiotic intake would significantly reduce markers of inflammation.
L’arthrose induisant une inflammation, la consommation régulière de kéfir aiderait à atténuer certains des symptômes.
The role of peptides in combating inflammation
Peptides are polymers of amino acids found in kefir and dairy products.
Ces molécules auraient démontré leur intérêt dans le ralentissement de l’inflammation et pourraient agir sur les signes de l’arthrose.
Kefir and its other properties to limit osteoarthritis
Kefir is an excellent source of calcium and vitamin K2, two important nutrients for bone health.
Regular consumption of kefir could therefore help strengthen the skeleton, which is particularly important for people with osteoarthritis who are at risk of fractures.
Its properties are even broader, as research has proven that regular consumption of kefir has been associated with improved digestion and lactose tolerance, antibacterial effects, cholesterol-lowering effects, blood sugar control, anti-allergenic activity and a wound-healing effect.
Mon avis
A healthy, balanced diet helps maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the joints. Thus, by maintaining a healthy weight, we can improve the signs of osteoarthritis.
Même s’il n’existe actuellement aucune preuve scientifique que la consommation de kéfir puisse soulager les symptômes de l’arthrose, ses propriétés anti-inflammatoires peuvent être bénéfiques.
If you suffer from osteoarthritis, drinking kefir will unfortunately not make all your pain disappear. Nevertheless, it contributes to a healthy, balanced diet, which will be beneficial for your overall health!
Personally, I really like milk kefir that I drink like a liquid yogurt. I sometimes blend it with red berries for their antioxidant properties and their flavor, which pairs very well with kefir.
Listen to our podcast | The Wonders of Kefir
