Evidence supporting the use of: Kefir
For the health condition: Crohn's Disease

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Kefir is a fermented milk drink containing a complex community of probiotic bacteria and yeasts. Its use in supporting or treating Crohn’s Disease is grounded more in emerging scientific research than in longstanding traditional use specific to this condition. Several small-scale clinical studies and animal models have investigated the effects of kefir and other probiotics on inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), including Crohn’s Disease. These studies suggest that kefir may help to modulate the gut microbiota, enhance mucosal barrier function, and reduce intestinal inflammation, all of which are relevant to Crohn’s pathology.

For example, some research has demonstrated that kefir consumption can increase levels of beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in the gut, which may help counteract the dysbiosis (microbial imbalance) often seen in Crohn’s patients. Anti-inflammatory effects have been observed in animal models, with reductions in pro-inflammatory cytokines and improvements in symptoms of colitis, a related inflammatory condition. However, human clinical trials specifically focused on kefir and Crohn’s Disease are limited, with most studies investigating probiotics more generally or focusing on ulcerative colitis.

While these findings are promising, the evidence is still preliminary, and larger, well-controlled clinical trials are necessary to establish kefir’s efficacy and safety in Crohn’s Disease. Therefore, kefir’s use is supported by some scientific evidence, but it is not yet robust or definitive, meriting a modest evidence rating.

More about Kefir
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Products containing Kefir

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