Cookie Dough Ice Cream Parfait

Try our easy, healthy Cookie Dough Ice Cream Parfaits as a way to treat yourself with a probiotic, protein-rich treat! We use Farmer Cheese and Low-Fat Plain Lifeway-Kefir for this recipe to create a powerful dessert you’ll come back to time and time again!

We use Lifeway Farmer Cheese and Vanilla or Plain Low-Fat Lifeway Kefir to create a one-two punch of protein and probiotics, plus natural fruit for sweetness and to add thickness. Don’t forget the vanilla bean—it’s the key to maximizing the flavor. Instead of actual cookie dough, we use bits of Medjool dates to give a cookie-dough-like effect in terms of texture and flavor, and a much healthier alternative. Dates are a great source of iron, potassium, B vitamins, and fiber. The prebiotics feed the probiotics in our kefir and farmer cheese for a synbiotic dessert to enjoy for years to come. You’re going to love it!

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 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.

Prebiotics + Probiotics = A Healthier You

Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of fiber-rich plant foods. Your body actually can’t digest prebiotics, so they’re what probiotics feed off of to remain actively working in your digestive system. They help the digestive system by promoting the growth of good bacteria. Prebiotics and probiotics work together in balance to make sure our digestive system stays on track and regular. Research has found that consuming a variety of prebiotic and probiotic food sources may improve your body’s natural functions, including both your immune and digestive systems.