Carrots and Lifeway Kefir make a perfect pairing because the prebiotics in carrots provides fuel for the live and active probiotic cultures found in Lifeway Kefir. It’s a gut-loving combination that also happens to taste amazing. This light and refreshing recipe is easy to make, tasty, and a great way to get in a dose of veggies and probiotics in one meal. Simply shred a bunch of carrots lengthwise and mix them with our protein-packed Lifeway Kefir, oil, vinegar, and a few other ingredients.
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.
Prebiotics + Probiotics = a Healthy You
Prebiotics are non-living, non-digestible carbohydrates naturally found in a variety of foods. Your body actually can’t digest probiotics, 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.
Ingredients
- 3-4 medium sized carrots
- 1 tsp. olive oil
- 1 tsp. rice vinegar
- natural sea salt , to taste
- 1 -2 tbsp. Plain Lowfat Kefir
- 1 tsp. maple syrup
- 1 tsp. sesame oil
- 1/2 lime, juiced
- Sesame Seeds and sunflower seeds for topping
Directions
- Wash, peel and cut off ends of each carrot. Shred the carrots length wise and add to a large bowl
- In a separate bowl, mix together olive oil, rice vinegar, sea salt, plain Lifeway Kefir, Maple Syrup, sesame oil, and lime juice. Once incorporated, pour over carrots and mix. Enjoy!