Cultured Dairy: The Nutrition Benefits You 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 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 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 your immune system and digestive system.
Prep Time: 15 mins Servings: 2Ingredients
- Smoothie Base:
- 2 cups Plain Lowfat Kefir
- 1 cup frozen mixed berries
- 2 tbsp activated charcoal
- Blue Smoothie:
- 1 cup Blueberry Lowfat Kefir
- 1 cup frozen blueberries
- 1 package of frozen blueberry smoothie packs
- 2 tbsp blue spirulina
- Orange Smoothie:
- 1 cup additional Plain Lifeway Kefir
- 1 sliced orange
- 2 sliced black plums
- 1 tbsp beet root powder
- Other Ingredients:
- 1 orange
- 1 black plum
Directions
- In a high speed blender, blend together each smoothie separately.
- In a bowl, add the smoothie base. Spoon in each layer on either side of the smoothie and swirl around to create a fun design.
- Add a slice of an orange and top it with the black plum slice. Swirl teh orange smoothie around the orange and enjoy!