Kefir

**Semantic type:** Food|Pharmacologic Substance

**Definition:** A nutritional supplement composed of a fermented milk drink prepared by inoculating cow, goat, or sheep milk with kefir grains, with potential immunomodulating and probiotic activities. Upon oral administration of kefir, the kefir grains may stimulate the proliferation of beneficial bacteria in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. This modulates the GI flora ecosystem, improves the functions of the intestinal barrier and protects against harmful viruses and bacteria. In addition, this prebiotic modulates the immune system and may inhibit inflammation.

**Synonyms:** - Kephir