Which Kefir Should You Be Drinking: Milk or Coconut Water?

Milk Kefir vs coconut water kefir- wondering which one’s better? While coconut water kefir is becoming increasingly popular, the question is, is it really better than the traditional dairy based kefir?  

To help you make a choice, I will be taking you through the differences between milk kefir and coconut water kefir. Based on this information, you can pick the one that works for you. 

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Milk Kefir Vs Coconut Water Kefir: Choosing the Best Option

Before we can get into the differences of  milk kefir and coconut water kefir, let us take a quick look at how they fare in comparison to each other – 

*Source: USDA; Quantity defined is 1 cup

Let us understand these differences better – 

How Do Milk Kefir and Coconut Water Kefir Differ In the Way They Are Made?

Milk kefir is made from milk obtained from cows that has been fermented using kefir grains. Kefir grains are cauliflower shaped granules that are a colony of friendly yeast and bacteria. It takes about 18-24 hours to make kefir from milk. 

Coconut water kefir is fermented coconut water. The fermentation is usually carried out using either a powdered kefir starter or water kefir grains. Although regular milk kefir grains can also be used for the fermentation process. It takes about 24-48 hours to obtain kefir when kept in a warm environment. 

Difference in the Taste and Texture of Milk Kefir and Coconut Water Kefir

Milk kefir is thick with a consistency similar to that of a thin yogurt. The flavour varies with the type of milk used, but generally speaking it is slightly fizzy, creamy and tangy. 

Coconut water kefir, on the other hand, has a tangy, refreshing taste. It is quite similar to the flavour of a mild lemonade. The texture is thin and watery, with a slight viscosity from the fermented coconut water.

How Much of Milk Kefir Vs Coconut Milk Kefir Can You Consume in a Day?

Kefir of any kind can be a part of your regular diet. It is rich in nutrients, particularly probiotics or good bacteria and can contribute to your overall well being. However, as with most foods, moderation is the key to reaping benefits.  

As a nutritionist, I recommend drinking 1-2 cups of kefir per day – both coconut water and dairy kefir. You can have slightly more coconut water kefir because it is lighter. 

Which is More Calorie Dense: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir is generally more calorie-dense than coconut water kefir. The calorie count can vary between 100-150 calories depending on the kind of milk used. While whole milk kefir will have lower calories, skim milk kefir will have a much lower calorie count. 

Coconut water is naturally low in calories. Therefore, the kefir obtained by fermenting it will also be lower in calories. Whenever buying kefir from the supermarket, make sure to check for added  sweeteners or other ingredients as they affect the calorie content.

What to Pick For Lower Carbs: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

As is evident in the table above, milk kefir has way more calories when compared to coconut water kefir. This is one of the reasons why coconut water kefir is becoming incredibly popular with people following a low carb diet. 

The carbs in milk kefir come from the natural sugar found in milk. Also, remember that the sweetened versions will have even more carbs.     

The Low Fat Option Between Coconut Milk Kefir Vs Milk Kefir 

The exact fat content in milk kefir will depend on the kind of milk you use to make it. Despite your choice, milk kefir will always  have a much higher amount of fats when compared to coconut water kefir. 

Coconut water kefir has almost negligible fats. So, if you want the benefits of kefir without the fats, coconut water kefir is definitely the best option. 

The Better Source of Protein: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir is definitely a better source of protein than coconut water kefir. This is because milk contains naturally occurring proteins, such as casein and whey, which are absent in coconut water. 

Depending on the type of milk used, a cup of milk kefir can contain up to 10 grams of protein. In contrast, coconut water kefir is relatively low in protein, with only 0-1 gram of protein per cup. So, if protein intake is your concern, milk kefir would be the better choice.

Which One Is a Good Source of Calcium: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir is a good source of calcium, while coconut water kefir is not. Calcium is a mineral that is naturally found in milk. The fermentation process further increases the bioavailability of calcium, making it easier for the body to absorb. 

Coconut water does not naturally contain significant amounts of calcium. Therefore, for more calcium, milk kefir is the best option.

What is the Best Time to Consume Milk Kefir Vs Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir is best consumed in the morning as a breakfast beverage or as a mid-day snack. This is because consuming it during the day gives your body enough time to absorb all the nutrients  and provide a source of sustained energy throughout the day. 

Coconut water kefir, on the other hand, is best when consumed as a refreshing beverage in the afternoon or as a post-workout drink. It helps you to cool down your body and also provides essential nutrients.  

Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir: The Choice for Vegans?

Coconut water kefir is a plant based product and it is thus suitable for vegans. Since milk kefir is made using milk, it is not suitable for you if you are vegan. 

However, milk kefir made using plant based milks is a good choice for people choosing plant based foods.

Which is Better for the Environment: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

When it comes to the environment, coconut water kefir is better than milk kefir. This is because the production of milk has a significant negative impact on the environment due to factors such as water consumption, land use, and greenhouse gas emissions from livestock.

Coconut production is fairly sustainable in comparison. Coconuts require less water and land to produce compared to animal-based products, and they do not produce the same level of greenhouse gas emissions as livestock. 

Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir: Better for Oral & Bone Health

Milk kefir is better for your oral and bone health. This is because milk kefir is a good source of calcium and other minerals that are important for maintaining strong bones and teeth. The probiotics in milk kefir can also promote good oral health by reducing the growth of harmful bacteria in the mouth.

In contrast, coconut water kefir does not contain significant amounts of essential nutrients that are required for bone health. While coconut water is a good source of electrolytes, it does not provide the same level of minerals as milk.

Which Is Better For Your Gut: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir is a rich source of probiotics or good bacteria that aid digestion and also fight against infections. Additionally, dairy kefir also contains beneficial vitamins and minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and vitamin B12 that contribute to digestive health.

Although coconut water kefir  contains probiotics like milk kefir, it may not have the same variety and amount of beneficial bacteria as milk kefir. So, milk kefir is better for digestive health, unless you have milk allergies. 

Which Is Better For Hydrating the Body: Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir?

Milk kefir does a decent job of hydrating the body. Apart from the water content, it is rich in electrolytes or minerals that help maintain water balance in the body. However, in comparison to coconut water, it lags a little behind. 

Coconut water is a natural electrolyte and is known for its cooling hydrating properties. Coconut water kefir is thus an excellent choice when it comes for hydration drinks.

Milk Kefir or Coconut Water Kefir: The More Versatile Drink?

Milk kefir can be consumed plain or mixed with fruit, honey, or savoury flavourings like herbs and spices. It can be used in a number of ways as a substitute for buttermilk, sour cream, or yogurt in recipes.

Coconut water kefir can be enjoyed as such or can be mixed with fruit juice, herbs, or other flavourings. I sometimes use it as a base for smoothies as well. Overall, in terms of versatility, milk kefir may have a slight edge due to its ability to be used as a substitute in various recipes.

So, overall both milk kefir and coconut milk kefir can be great choices for your diet. Although milk kefir is nutritionally richer, coconut water kefir is more easily tolerated. Ultimately, if you have to pick between the two, look into your needs and preferences.