Latest news with #Kefir
Yahoo
29-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lifeway Foods Acknowledges ISS Recommendation to Reject Dissident Campaign
MORTON GROVE, Ill., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWAY), a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products, today announced that Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS), a leading independent proxy advisory firm, has recommended that shareholders "DO NOT VOTE" in connection with the ongoing dissident-led consent solicitation. In its report, ISS concluded that "the dissident has not presented a compelling case for change" and advised shareholders to "DO NOT VOTE" on all proposals put forth by Ludmila and Edward Smolyansky and their aligned group. "We appreciate ISS's thorough review and are pleased that their recommendation supports our belief that this consent solicitation is unwarranted, disruptive and not in the best interest of Lifeway shareholders," said Julie Smolyansky, CEO and Chair of Lifeway Foods. The ISS analysis noted that: Lifeway's "financial performance has been directionally positive" and its "share price [has] rallied over the preceding year on multiple positive earnings announcements," with total shareholder return significantly outperforming peers in the Russell 3000 Food Producers Index. The dissident group's critiques "are generally presented without adequate context," and the dissident group "does not clearly establish how various developments have actually impacted shareholder returns." The dissident group "has not presented a plan should it successfully secure a majority of board seats" for governance or operational improvement. The dissident nominees include individuals who previously contributed to governance concerns during their past tenures at the Company. "The Lifeway Board and management team remain focused on maximizing shareholder value and will continue to pursue all opportunities to drive additional value," added Smolyansky. "We encourage shareholders to follow ISS's guidance and take no action on the consent solicitation." About Lifeway Foods, Inc. Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces a variety of cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at Important Additional Information The Company intends to file a proxy statement on Schedule 14A, an accompanying BLUE proxy card and other relevant documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") in connection with the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders for the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. THE COMPANY'S SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE COMPANY'S DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO), THE ACCOMPANYING BLUE PROXY CARD AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement, an accompanying BLUE proxy card, any amendments or supplements to the definitive proxy statement and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC at no charge at the SEC's website at Copies will also be available at no charge by visiting the "Investor Relations" tab of the Company's website at The Company may file a consent revocation statement, in which case all references to a proxy statement, proxies, proxy cards and solicitation of proxies referenced in this "Important Additional Information" section and the "Participants in the Solicitation" section below shall be deemed to refer to such consent revocation statement, consent revocations, revocation cards and solicitation of consent revocations. Participants in the Solicitation The Company, each of its independent directors (Juan Carlos Dalto, Jody Levy, Dorri McWhorter, Perfecto Sanchez, Jason Scher and Pol Sikar) and certain of its executive officers (Julie Smolyansky, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary, and Eric Hanson, Chief Financial and Accounting Officer and Treasurer) are deemed to be "participants" (as defined in Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) in the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders in connection with matters to be considered at the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. Information about the names of the Company's directors and officers, their respective interests in the Company by security holdings or otherwise and their respective compensation is set forth in the "Information About Our Directors and Executive Officers" section in Part III, Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance of Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025 (the "Form 10-K Amendment"), in Part III, Item 11 – Executive Compensation of the Form 10-K Amendment and in the "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" section in Part III, Item 12 – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of the Form 10-K Amendment. Supplemental information regarding the participants' holdings of the Company's securities can be found in SEC filings on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC on June 18, 2025 for Julie Smolyansky (available here) and Eric Hanson (available here) and on July 1, 2025 for each of Pol Sikar (available here), Juan Carlos Dalto (available here), Jason Scott Scher (available here), Dorri McWhorter (available here), Perfecto Sanchez (available here), and Jody Levy (available here). Contact: Perceptual AdvisorsDan TarmanEmail: dtarman@ Derek Miller Vice President of Communications, Lifeway FoodsEmail: derekm@ General inquiries:Lifeway Foods, 847-967-1010Email: info@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lifeway Foods, Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Malaysian Reserve
29-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Lifeway Foods Acknowledges ISS Recommendation to Reject Dissident Campaign
MORTON GROVE, Ill., July 29, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWAY), a leading U.S. supplier of kefir and fermented probiotic products, today announced that Institutional Shareholder Services Inc. (ISS), a leading independent proxy advisory firm, has recommended that shareholders 'DO NOT VOTE' in connection with the ongoing dissident-led consent solicitation. In its report, ISS concluded that 'the dissident has not presented a compelling case for change' and advised shareholders to 'DO NOT VOTE' on all proposals put forth by Ludmila and Edward Smolyansky and their aligned group. 'We appreciate ISS's thorough review and are pleased that their recommendation supports our belief that this consent solicitation is unwarranted, disruptive and not in the best interest of Lifeway shareholders,' said Julie Smolyansky, CEO and Chair of Lifeway Foods. The ISS analysis noted that: Lifeway's 'financial performance has been directionally positive' and its 'share price [has] rallied over the preceding year on multiple positive earnings announcements,' with total shareholder return significantly outperforming peers in the Russell 3000 Food Producers Index. The dissident group's critiques 'are generally presented without adequate context,' and the dissident group 'does not clearly establish how various developments have actually impacted shareholder returns.' The dissident group 'has not presented a plan should it successfully secure a majority of board seats' for governance or operational improvement. The dissident nominees include individuals who previously contributed to governance concerns during their past tenures at the Company. 'The Lifeway Board and management team remain focused on maximizing shareholder value and will continue to pursue all opportunities to drive additional value,' added Smolyansky. 'We encourage shareholders to follow ISS's guidance and take no action on the consent solicitation.' About Lifeway Foods, Inc. Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces a variety of cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at Important Additional Information The Company intends to file a proxy statement on Schedule 14A, an accompanying BLUE proxy card and other relevant documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC') in connection with the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders for the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. THE COMPANY'S SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE COMPANY'S DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO), THE ACCOMPANYING BLUE PROXY CARD AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement, an accompanying BLUE proxy card, any amendments or supplements to the definitive proxy statement and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC at no charge at the SEC's website at Copies will also be available at no charge by visiting the 'Investor Relations' tab of the Company's website at The Company may file a consent revocation statement, in which case all references to a proxy statement, proxies, proxy cards and solicitation of proxies referenced in this 'Important Additional Information' section and the 'Participants in the Solicitation' section below shall be deemed to refer to such consent revocation statement, consent revocations, revocation cards and solicitation of consent revocations. Participants in the Solicitation The Company, each of its independent directors (Juan Carlos Dalto, Jody Levy, Dorri McWhorter, Perfecto Sanchez, Jason Scher and Pol Sikar) and certain of its executive officers (Julie Smolyansky, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary, and Eric Hanson, Chief Financial and Accounting Officer and Treasurer) are deemed to be 'participants' (as defined in Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) in the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders in connection with matters to be considered at the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. Information about the names of the Company's directors and officers, their respective interests in the Company by security holdings or otherwise and their respective compensation is set forth in the 'Information About Our Directors and Executive Officers' section in Part III, Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance of Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025 (the 'Form 10-K Amendment'), in Part III, Item 11 – Executive Compensation of the Form 10-K Amendment and in the 'Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management' section in Part III, Item 12 – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of the Form 10-K Amendment. Supplemental information regarding the participants' holdings of the Company's securities can be found in SEC filings on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC on June 18, 2025 for Julie Smolyansky (available here) and Eric Hanson (available here) and on July 1, 2025 for each of Pol Sikar (available here), Juan Carlos Dalto (available here), Jason Scott Scher (available here), Dorri McWhorter (available here), Perfecto Sanchez (available here), and Jody Levy (available here). Contact: Perceptual AdvisorsDan TarmanEmail: dtarman@ Derek Miller Vice President of Communications, Lifeway FoodsEmail: derekm@ General inquiries:Lifeway Foods, 847-967-1010Email: info@
Malaysian Reserve
03-07-2025
- Business
- Malaysian Reserve
Lifeway Foods Comments on Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky's Consent Solicitation and Urges Shareholders to Disregard the Unlawful Consent Solicitation Statement
MORTON GROVE, Ill., July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWAY) ('Lifeway' or the 'Company'), a leading U.S. supplier of Kefir and fermented probiotic products to support the microbiome, made the following statement regarding Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky's consent solicitation statement: Lifeway values investor feedback and remains focused on maximizing shareholder value. Lifeway's strategy has delivered strong shareholder returns (788% over 5 years through the date prior to Danone's initial unsolicited proposal) and financial results (~100% revenue growth from FY '19 through FY '24). We look forward to continuing this momentum for the benefit of all shareholders. The Smolyanskys' definitive consent solicitation statement filed on July 2nd violates Illinois law and the Company's organizational documents. Their statement purports to set a record date for their proposals, when they don't have a right to do so, and ignores the requirement that all shareholders entitled to vote receive proper notice of the proposed action prior to the taking of any action by written consent — and they have failed to do so. In short, their statement is legally deficient. Accordingly, shareholders are urged to disregard the Smolyanskys' recent filing and any communications from them that violate the law and our charter/bylaws. About Lifeway Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces a variety of cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at Important Additional Information The Company intends to file a proxy statement on Schedule 14A, an accompanying BLUE proxy card and other relevant documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the 'SEC') in connection with the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders for the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. THE COMPANY'S SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE COMPANY'S DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO), THE ACCOMPANYING BLUE PROXY CARD AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement, an accompanying BLUE proxy card, any amendments or supplements to the definitive proxy statement and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC at no charge at the SEC's website at Copies will also be available at no charge by visiting the 'Investor Relations' tab of the Company's website at The Company may file a consent revocation statement in connection with the consent solicitation described in this press release, in which case all references to a proxy statement, proxies, proxy cards and solicitation of proxies referenced in this 'Important Additional Information' section and the 'Participants in the Solicitation' section below shall be deemed to refer to such consent revocation statement, consent revocations, revocation cards and solicitation of consent revocations. Participants in the Solicitation The Company, each of its independent directors (Juan Carlos Dalto, Jody Levy, Dorri McWhorter, Perfecto Sanchez, Jason Scher and Pol Sikar) and certain of its executive officers (Julie Smolyansky, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary, and Eric Hanson, Chief Financial and Accounting Officer and Treasurer) are deemed to be 'participants' (as defined in Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) in the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders in connection with matters to be considered at the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. Information about the names of the Company's directors and officers, their respective interests in the Company by security holdings or otherwise and their respective compensation is set forth in the 'Information About Our Directors and Executive Officers' section in Part III, Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance of Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025 (the 'Form 10-K Amendment'), in Part III, Item 11 – Executive Compensation of the Form 10-K Amendment and in the 'Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management' section in Part III, Item 12 – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of the Form 10-K Amendment. Supplemental information regarding the participants' holdings of the Company's securities can be found in SEC filings on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC on June 18, 2025 for Julie Smolyansky (available here) and on July 1, 2025 for each of Pol Sikar (available here), Juan Carlos Dalto (available here), Jason Scott Scher (available here), Dorri McWhorter (available here), Perfecto Sanchez (available here), and Jody Levy (available here). Contacts: Perceptual Advisors Dan Tarman Email: dtarman@ Derek Miller Vice President of Communications, Lifeway Foods Email: derekm@
Yahoo
03-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Lifeway Foods Comments on Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky's Consent Solicitation and Urges Shareholders to Disregard the Unlawful Consent Solicitation Statement
MORTON GROVE, Ill., July 3, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lifeway Foods, Inc. (NASDAQ: LWAY) ("Lifeway" or the "Company"), a leading U.S. supplier of Kefir and fermented probiotic products to support the microbiome, made the following statement regarding Edward and Ludmila Smolyansky's consent solicitation statement: Lifeway values investor feedback and remains focused on maximizing shareholder value. Lifeway's strategy has delivered strong shareholder returns (788% over 5 years through the date prior to Danone's initial unsolicited proposal) and financial results (~100% revenue growth from FY '19 through FY '24). We look forward to continuing this momentum for the benefit of all shareholders. The Smolyanskys' definitive consent solicitation statement filed on July 2nd violates Illinois law and the Company's organizational documents. Their statement purports to set a record date for their proposals, when they don't have a right to do so, and ignores the requirement that all shareholders entitled to vote receive proper notice of the proposed action prior to the taking of any action by written consent --- and they have failed to do so. In short, their statement is legally deficient. Accordingly, shareholders are urged to disregard the Smolyanskys' recent filing and any communications from them that violate the law and our charter/bylaws. About Lifeway Lifeway Foods, Inc., which has been recognized as one of Forbes' Best Small Companies, is America's leading supplier of the probiotic, fermented beverage known as Kefir. In addition to its line of drinkable Kefir, the company also produces a variety of cheeses and a ProBugs line for kids. Lifeway's tart and tangy fermented dairy products are now sold across the United States, Mexico, Ireland, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and France. Learn how Lifeway is good for more than just you at Important Additional Information The Company intends to file a proxy statement on Schedule 14A, an accompanying BLUE proxy card and other relevant documents with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") in connection with the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders for the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. THE COMPANY'S SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY ENCOURAGED TO READ THE COMPANY'S DEFINITIVE PROXY STATEMENT (INCLUDING ANY AMENDMENTS OR SUPPLEMENTS THERETO), THE ACCOMPANYING BLUE PROXY CARD AND ALL OTHER DOCUMENTS FILED WITH THE SEC CAREFULLY AND IN THEIR ENTIRETY WHEN THEY BECOME AVAILABLE BECAUSE THEY WILL CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION. Investors and shareholders may obtain a copy of the definitive proxy statement, an accompanying BLUE proxy card, any amendments or supplements to the definitive proxy statement and other documents filed by the Company with the SEC at no charge at the SEC's website at Copies will also be available at no charge by visiting the "Investor Relations" tab of the Company's website at The Company may file a consent revocation statement in connection with the consent solicitation described in this press release, in which case all references to a proxy statement, proxies, proxy cards and solicitation of proxies referenced in this "Important Additional Information" section and the "Participants in the Solicitation" section below shall be deemed to refer to such consent revocation statement, consent revocations, revocation cards and solicitation of consent revocations. Participants in the Solicitation The Company, each of its independent directors (Juan Carlos Dalto, Jody Levy, Dorri McWhorter, Perfecto Sanchez, Jason Scher and Pol Sikar) and certain of its executive officers (Julie Smolyansky, Chief Executive Officer, President and Secretary, and Eric Hanson, Chief Financial and Accounting Officer and Treasurer) are deemed to be "participants" (as defined in Schedule 14A under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended) in the solicitation of proxies from the Company's shareholders in connection with matters to be considered at the Company's 2025 annual meeting of shareholders. Information about the names of the Company's directors and officers, their respective interests in the Company by security holdings or otherwise and their respective compensation is set forth in the "Information About Our Directors and Executive Officers" section in Part III, Item 10 – Directors, Executive Officers and Corporate Governance of Amendment No. 1 to the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024, filed with the SEC on April 29, 2025 (the "Form 10-K Amendment"), in Part III, Item 11 – Executive Compensation of the Form 10-K Amendment and in the "Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management" section in Part III, Item 12 – Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management and Related Stockholder Matters of the Form 10-K Amendment. Supplemental information regarding the participants' holdings of the Company's securities can be found in SEC filings on Statements of Change in Ownership on Form 4 filed with the SEC on June 18, 2025 for Julie Smolyansky (available here) and on July 1, 2025 for each of Pol Sikar (available here), Juan Carlos Dalto (available here), Jason Scott Scher (available here), Dorri McWhorter (available here), Perfecto Sanchez (available here), and Jody Levy (available here). Contacts: Perceptual Advisors Dan Tarman Email: dtarman@ Derek Miller Vice President of Communications, Lifeway Foods Email: derekm@ View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Lifeway Foods, Inc. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
News18
30-06-2025
- Health
- News18
Kefir: The Probiotic Powerhouse That's Taking Over Indian Kitchens
Last Updated: Kefir's the cool cousin of Dahi—fermented, fizzy, gut-happy, and lactose-light. Desi-approved, Insta-worthy, and your stomach's new BFF. Imagine a tangy, fizzy milk drink that's like yogurt's well-traveled cousin. Meet kefir (pronounced keh-fear)—a fermented drink that originated in the Caucasus and Tibet centuries ago. It's made using kefir 'grains"—small, cauliflower-like clusters of bacteria and yeast. These grains are mixed with milk (cow, goat, or even plant-based). Leave it at room temperature for 12–24 hours, strain it, and you have kefir—ready to nourish your gut and your body. These grains break down lactose (milk sugar) into lactic acid, a small amount of carbon dioxide (which gives it a slight fizz), and a trace amount of alcohol (about 0.002%, barely noticeable). The result? A probiotic-rich drink that supports digestion without the sugar rush. What's Inside This Drink? ~4% protein, 1% fat, 7% carbs, 87% water (~52 calories per 100 ml). Rich in B-vitamins, vitamin A, calcium, and a powerful probiotic mix that supports gut health. Why Should You Care? For Better Digestion Kefir contains billions of probiotics per ml, including Lactobacillus kefiri, which help fight harmful gut bacteria and improve digestion. Certain peptides in kefir may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Early studies in animals show promise, though large-scale human trials are still limited. Helps Manage Blood Sugar Some small studies suggest kefir can help improve fasting glucose and insulin levels in people with type 2 diabetes. It may also reduce inflammation, though results are mixed compared to plain milk. Boosts Immunity Kefir produces compounds such as bacteriocins that fight harmful bacteria such as E. coli. Its probiotics also enhance the immune system by increasing protective antibodies and immune cells. Good for Brain Health & Mood A healthy gut supports a healthy brain. Some studies, including one on Alzheimer's patients, showed memory improvement after consuming kefir. Its antioxidant properties may also help reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Cancer-Fighting Potential Lab tests show kefir may have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. It appears to inhibit colon cancer cells in Petri dishes, but conclusive human trials are still underway. Stronger Bones, Better Skin Loaded with calcium and vitamin D, kefir supports bone health. Its antioxidant-rich profile may also improve skin health, digestion, and overall wellness. All these said, there is sufficient scientific research backing up the benefits of Kefir with respect to heart health and cancer aiding factors. Emerging research suggests that kefir isn't just good for your gut—it might also be a powerful ally for your heart. A 2024 double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled clinical trial involving 67 elderly participants. It was found that probiotic-fortified kefir significantly improved certain atherogenic indices, which are markers linked to cardiovascular risk. This indicates that regular consumption of kefir could have a positive impact on heart health by improving lipid profiles and reducing cardiovascular risks. (Source: Backing this, a 2023 study published in Frontiers in Nutrition tested kefir peptides on mice that are genetically prone to developing cardiovascular disease. The mice, when fed a high-cholesterol diet supplemented with kefir peptides, showed a marked reduction in vascular calcification and atherosclerosis. The peptides worked by reducing oxidative stress and systemic inflammation, both critical factors in heart disease development. (Source: Adding to this evidence, another 2023 study demonstrated that kefir made using traditional microorganisms significantly lowered LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and improved plasma markers of inflammation in male participants. This underscores kefir's role in managing cholesterol and enhancing overall cardiovascular health. (Source: Can Kefir Help in Cancer Prevention? Science is increasingly exploring kefir's role beyond digestion, particularly its potential in fighting cancer. Studies show that kefir might contribute to the anti-tumor process across various cancers, including breast, leukemia, skin, gastric, colon cancers, and sarcomas. The proposed mechanism? Kefir's ability to positively modulate the gut microbiome and strengthen immune responses, which plays a crucial role in cancer prevention. (Source: One noteworthy case study involving 1,699 women suggested that high consumption of dairy products—including kefir—was associated with a lower risk of breast cancer among premenopausal women. Why Kefir Makes Sense for Indian Lifestyles Urban stress is real. Studies suggest fermented foods like kefir can improve digestion, sleep, and mood. It fits our food culture. Indians love dahi, lassi, and achar. Kefir is a natural extension of that tradition with even more probiotic power. Low in lactose. With 70–80% of Indians lactose-sensitive, kefir is a gentler dairy option. Affordable. Homemade kefir costs less than daily chai. Just buy the grains once and reuse them indefinitely. Things to Know Before You Start Research is still emerging. Much of the science is based on lab studies and small human trials. Start slow. Some people may experience bloating or mild discomfort initially, especially if sensitive to histamine. Check labels. Store-bought kefir can contain added sugars. Homemade kefir is healthier and more affordable. Consult your doctor. If you're pregnant, have immune issues, or severe allergies, check before consuming raw or unpasteurized kefir. How to Add Kefir to Your Routine Start small: 50–100 ml daily for a week to let your gut adapt. Ways to enjoy it: Blend it into mango lassi, pour over granola, use as a salad dressing, or even marinate paneer. Make it at home: Buy kefir grains online, add to milk, ferment for 24 hours, strain, and store in the fridge. The grains last indefinitely. Avoid sugar traps: Stick to plain kefir with no more than 5–6g sugar per 100 ml. Quick 7-Day Kefir Starter Plan Day What to Try 1–2 50 ml plain kefir with honey 3–4 100 ml kefir smoothie (banana + mango + cardamom) 5–7 150 ml kefir lassi with mint and a tadka of jeera Track how you feel—digestion, energy, mood, skin. The Final Word top videos View all Kefir isn't just another health fad. It's a centuries-old drink that bridges ancient food wisdom with modern nutrition science. Affordable, probiotic-rich, and easy to make, kefir fits seamlessly into Indian food habits. It won't replace a healthy diet, but as a daily addition, it's a simple, effective way to support digestion, immunity, and overall wellness. tags : Gut Bacteria Gut health Gut microbiome Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 30, 2025, 13:49 IST News zip Kefir: The Probiotic Powerhouse That's Taking Over Indian Kitchens
