Saturday 3rd November 2018


Food & Drink Christmas Unwrapped 35


Available from


amazon.co.uk,


positive effects on our physical health, it’s only in the past 10–15 years that studies have proven there’s a connec- tion between the gut, the bacteria in the gut, and the brain. In mice, enhanced immune func-


tion, better reactions to stress, and even learning and memory advan- tages have been attributed to adding the right strain of bacteria to the gut. These bacteria work on something called the ‘gut–brain connection’. “Those studies give us confi-


dence that gut bacteria are playing a causal role in very important biological processes, which we can then hope to exploit with psychobi- otics,” said Philip Burnet, an asso- ciate professor of psychiatry at the University of Oxford.


What kind of kefir is best? When sourcing kefir to help with IBS, depression or anxiety, look for a live, active, traditional-style kefir, rather than a supermarket probiotic, which may be pasteurised after production. Choose kefir that’s made with real kefir grains; if it doesn’t say on the label that it is made with real grains, it probably isn’t. Goat’s milk is the best base for


kefir, as the A1 casein in cow’s milk is allergenic and can cause inflammation inside the gut. Avoid flavoured or sweetened kefir, as sugar and sweeteners can further damage your microbiome. If you wish to flavour your kefir at home, use 100% pure stevia and fruit, blending and consuming immediately to avoid degradation of the probiotics.


The Kefir Solution case study


Caroline Debnam Barber, 36 Hertfordshire I’ve had IBS for about 13 years.


It started with the stress I experi- enced when my father passed away. I wasn’t able to eat bread or pasta because my stomach would become really bloated. I experienced anxiety and depression, as well; I was very upset and low. I tried all the different tablets


for IBS that the doctor gave me — Buscopan and peppermint oil, etc, but they didn’t work. I tried some of their kefir and, lo and behold, it worked! On the first course, I became less


uncomfortable. By the middle of the second course, the IBS had gone. I took a third course, and it didn’t


come back. I took four courses alto- gether, and the IBS is now cured. It’s brilliant. I certainly noticed a difference


in my mood and energy level. I felt a lot better. I’m not having panic attacks anymore. I would 100% recommend kefir. I was amazed — I had no stomach bloating, no cramps; just complete comfort and a normal tummy. Fantastic. I’m so grateful for my new lease of life.


chucklinggoat.co.uk T: 01239 654072


SHANN NIX JONES IS THE AUTHOR OF THE KEFIR SOLUTION: NATURAL HEALING FOR IBS, DEPRESSION AND ANXIETY, PUBLISHED BY HAY HOUSE IN JUNE 2018.


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