How to Make Coconut Water Kefir and All of its Amazing Benefits
/If you’ve been reading my blog for awhile and/or have followed me on instagram, then you probably know by now that I’m very into gut health. I truly believe that most, if not all, disease and ailments start in the gut. I’m so passionate about this area of health because it’s something that I’ve struggled with since I was a teenager, but of course had no idea back then. It wasn’t until I was 22 and going through some big health issues of my own that I started to discover the importance of gut health. I believe that one of the best things you can do for your overall health is eat fermented foods and/or take a good quality probiotic. I discovered a fermented drink a few years ago called Coconut Water Kefir. I was reading a book called The Body Ecology Diet by Donna Gates and was so into the information she was giving about food combining (something I’ll do a post on soon), gut health, and fermented foods. I have been incorporating fermented foods and probiotics into my diet for about 7 years now, but had never tried Coconut Water Kefir. I decided to give it a whirl and see if I noticed any differences.
First of all, this fermented drink is SO easy to make and does not have any added sugar like most Kombucha’s do. It also doesn’t have any caffeine, so if you’re sensitive to caffeine like me, then this might be a better option for you than kombucha. All you need is 24-30 ounces of coconut water and 1 packet of Kefir starter. I like to buy mine either from Amazon or www.bodyecology.com . You can find it on my Amazon shop HERE (under the supplements tab) if you want an easy way to find it. You warm the coconut water over the stove until it reaches body temperature (an easy way to check is to stick your finger in the water and if it feels neither hot nor cold, then its the right temp) and pour it in a glass jar or pitcher. You then add one packet of the starter to the water and let it sit on the counter at room temperature for 36 hours. Then stick it in the fridge and drink 4-6 ounces every morning. It will last in the fridge for about 5 days.
Coconut Water Kefir not only populates your gut with beneficial bacteria, but it also tones your digestive system, detoxes your liver, reduces sugar cravings, and provides your body with good mineral content (which is also good for your hair, skin, and nails). I always feel like I have more energy when I incorporate this drink into my lifestyle and I feel overall healthier as well. I do still like to take my probiotic at night which you can find HERE under the supplements tab.
I hope you give Coconut Water Kefir a go at some point! It truly is so amazing for your digestive system which I believe to be the number one place to start when you are dealing with most health issues. Sending all the good vibes your way.
With love,
Ashley