We took the classic childhood favorite of warm cinnamon toast and gave it a healthy probiotic upgrade. With soft warm raisin bread, cinnamon farmer cheese, and caramelized bananas, this #toasttuesday is taking us on a trip down memory lane!
Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You Actually Need to Know
With increasing research linking the correlation between probiotics, gut health, and immunity, it’s no secret that the integrity of our gut is vital to our health. Although additional factors such as stress, antibiotic usage, and individual health conditions can contribute to the condition of our gut, a focus on healthy food choices is one of the easiest ways to support the microbiome.
Several studies have shown a strong association between the gut-brain-microbiota. Probiotics introduced to the gut have been found to support immunity, improve allergies, and improve digestion.
Studies have shown that reduced diversity of healthy gut bacteria during early years is associated with an increase in food allergies during school age years. In addition, kefir made from whole fat milk helps absorb key nutrients such as Vitamins A, D, E, and K. Vitamin K is important because it helps your bones absorb calcium. It’s important to know that kefir contains a special trio: vitamin D, K, and calcium – all three crucial elements to support bone health.
Cinnamon Health Benefits
Like ginger and turmeric, cinnamon is a readily available spice that has been used medicinally by eastern cultures for centuries. It’s an anti-inflammatory that is high in antioxidant polyphenols. Even more, it contains cinnamaldehyde, a compound that kills bacteria and acts as an agricultural fungicide! And you thought it was just tasty in cookies.
While cinnamon is still being studied by medical professionals, recent findings show that cinnamon:
- May lower blood sugar levels in individuals with diabetes
- May reduce total cholesterol and lower LDL levels
- Is linked to a reduced risk of heart disease
- May reduce inflammation in the body
- May reduce fasting blood sugar levels and increase insulin sensitivity
- Supports digestion and helps eliminate intestinal gas
To help fight off the common cold this holiday season, mix cinnamon with kefir! There are so many great things we can say about kefir, especially when it comes to improving and supporting overall health. The probiotics found in our kefir may help support digestion and regularity, and may also help support immunity.
Ingredients
- 2 slices raisin bread
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup Farmer Cheese
- 1/2 banana
- 1 tsp honey
Directions
- Mix cinnamon and farmers cheese and put on top of raisin bread. Top with caramelized banana and honey.