Kefir drinks have become one of the most popular probiotic options in supermarkets across the UK and worldwide. As a Nutrition Consultant, I’m often asked “What’s the best probiotic drink I can buy?” — and with so many choices like Yakult, Activia, Danone products, probiotic yogurts, and kefir, it’s no surprise that it can feel overwhelming.
This guide explains what kefir drinks are, why they’re so beneficial for your digestive system, and how to choose the best one for optimal gut health.
What Are Kefir Drinks?
Kefir is a fermented drink traditionally made from cow’s or goat’s milk, although non-dairy versions are now widely available. It’s produced by adding kefir grains (a combination of beneficial bacteria and yeast) to milk. Over time, these microorganisms ferment the lactose (milk sugar), creating a probiotic-rich drink.
Compared with yogurt, kefir contains a significantly higher variety of probiotic strains, often around 30 different types of bacteria and yeasts — making it one of the most diverse probiotics available.
Why Kefir Drinks Are a Powerful Probiotic
Probiotic drinks like kefir help improve digestive health by introducing beneficial bacteria into the gut. These good bacteria may support:
- Digestion and nutrient absorption
- Immune system function
- Reduced bloating and gas
- Improved bowel regularity
- Mood and mental wellbeing (via the gut–brain axis)
Many people struggle with digestive symptoms such as bloating, constipation, diarrhoea, reflux, and IBS. With one in ten GP visits relating to digestive issues, it’s no surprise that probiotics like kefir are becoming more popular as part of a gut-friendly diet.
👉 You may also find my full guide helpful: What Are Probiotics and Do You Need Them?
👉 You may also find my guide on the benefits of prebiotics interesting, as they act as ‘fertiliser’ for the probiotics.
Kefir Drinks vs Other Probiotic Drinks
Supermarket shelves are packed with probiotic options, including:
- Yakult
- Activia
- Probiotic yogurts
- Danone probiotic drinks
- Kefir drinks
While these products do contain live cultures, many of them lack the diversity of strains found in kefir. Yogurt, for example, contains good bacteria but no yeast, and generally far fewer strains overall.
This diversity is what makes kefir such a powerful probiotic — it provides a broad spectrum of microbes that work together to support gut health.
A major issue with many supermarket probiotic drinks is added sugar. Drinks such as Yakult can contain several teaspoons of sugar per serving.
High sugar intake is known to:
- Feed harmful (pathogenic) gut bacteria
- Contribute to digestive symptoms
- Reduce the effectiveness of probiotics
- Affect blood sugar, weight, and inflammation
Even kefir drinks can contain added sugars and flavourings, so it’s best to choose plain, unsweetened kefir.
Healthy Flavour Ideas
You can add natural flavour at home, such as:
- Fresh berries
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla
- A small amount of honey
- Cocoa powder
- Mango or banana
Kefir vs Yogurt: Which Is Better?
Both kefir and yogurt offer probiotic benefits, but kefir has some key advantages:
| Kefir | Yogurt |
|---|---|
| Around 30+ strains of bacteria + yeasts | Fewer strains, no yeast |
| Thin, drinkable consistency | Thicker texture |
| Stronger probiotic activity | Milder probiotic effect |
| Greater microbial diversity | More limited |
Kefir has also demonstrated anti-microbial properties, showing potential in reducing harmful bacteria in the gut.
How to Choose a Good Quality Kefir Drink
When buying kefir from a supermarket, look for:
✔ Plain, unsweetened versions
✔ Short ingredient lists
✔ Live and active cultures
✔ No added sugars
✔ Good-quality brands
Common UK brands include:
- Biotiful Dairy (Ocado, Sainsbury’s, Waitrose)
- Yeo Valley Kefir
- Aldi and Asda kefir ranges
How Much Kefir Should You Drink?
Most people do well with 100–200ml per day.
If you’re new to kefir, begin with small amounts and gradually increase to allow your gut microbiome to adjust.
FAQs About Kefir Drinks
Is kefir good for IBS?
Many people with IBS notice symptom improvement. If you’re managing IBS, you may find my IBS Support Guide helpful. [Causes of IBS]
Can lactose-intolerant people drink kefir?
Yes. Kefir is naturally low in lactose due to fermentation, making it easier to digest than milk.
Can kefir improve mood?
Research suggests probiotics may support the gut–brain axis, which can influence mood and stress levels.
Is kefir better than yogurt?
For probiotic benefits, kefir generally offers greater diversity and potency.
Take Home Message
Kefir is one of the most powerful probiotic drinks available thanks to its wide variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts. When choosing any probiotic product, avoid added sugar, as this can feed harmful gut bacteria and worsen digestive issues.
For most people, a daily glass of plain kefir is a simple and effective way to support gut health.
If you’d like personalised help with improving your digestive health, nutrition, or overall wellbeing, learn more about my Nutrition Consultancy service here: [Nutrition Consultancy]
Or get in touch for a free, no-obligation chat: [Contact me]
