Is Kefir Healthy?
Kefir is healthy provided that you are not sensitive to dairy or have any problems with lactose or casein.
Kefir is a fermented milk drink that contain healthy probiotics to support a healthy gut flora.
"The various types of beneficial microbiota contained in kefir make it one of the most potent probiotic foods available. Besides containing highly beneficial bacteria and yeasts, kefir is a rich source of many different vitamins, minerals and essential amino acids that promote healing and repair, as well as general health maintenance."
In his article, he recommends Redwood Hill Farm’s Traditional Goat Kefir and Lifeway’s Organic Whole Milk Plain Kefir.
Kefir is dairy
Kefir is traditionally made from milk and hence anyone who is dairy intolerant may not want to consume it, depending on your sensitivity to dairy. The same goes for those who are on a casein-free diet or who are lactose-intolerant. Kefir from milk does contain casein and lactose.
Those people sensitive to gluten may also have sensitivity to casein and some other dairy proteins since they are gluten cross-reactive foods,
Fortunately, you can make kefir that is made from coconut instead.[reference]
WebMD also writes that ...
"Kefir contains live bacteria and yeast. The immune system usually controls bacteria and yeast in the body to prevent infections. Medications that decrease the immune system can increase your chances of getting sick from bacteria and yeast. Taking kefir along with medications that decrease the immune system might increase the chances of getting sick."