Many people believe that the key to health and longevity, other than eating your veggies, is good digestion! When your gut flora is out of balance, “bad” bacteria and yeasts can take over producing irritable and bad digestion, food allergies, headaches, flu and many other undesirable ailments.

Water kefir (pronounced ka-fear) is a easy way to feed your gut with “good” bacteria in a delicious and non-dairy drink which you can make at home yourself. It is great for vegans, as not only is it a great source of beneficial bacteria, but it also contains a variety of enzymes and organic acids, and a range of B vitamins, vitamin K and folic acid.

The key benefits of drinking Water Kefir include:

  • Inhibits the growth of unfriendly bacteria and yeasts, and helps beneficial probiotic microorganisms to colonise and thrive in your digestive tract.
  • Contributes to a healthy immune system.
  • Reduces inflammation.
  • Helps with the digestion of food and micronutrients.
  • Reduces the symptoms of stomach problems including bloating, indigestion, flatulence, diarrhoea/constipation, nausea, low energy, muscle aches and pains.
  • Increased energy and overall feeling of good health.

 

Simple Water Kefir Recipe

Clean glass jar
2 cups spring water (without chlorine)
1/4 teaspoon of molasses
1 rounded tablespoon organic sugar
1 organic dry fig (without preservatives)
Slice of unwaxed organic lemon
Pinch of bi-carb soda
1 Tablespoon of water kefir crystals
1 sheet of paper towel and a rubber band
Clean tea towel or hand towel to cover
Fine mesh nylon/plastic strainer
Plastic spoons

Wash your hands and kitchen utensils well before you begin.
Combine all the ingredients in the clean jar with the kefir crystals.
Cover the top of the jar with a sheet of paper towel and seal with a rubber band.
Cover the entire jar with a small towel and set aside for culturing for 24 hours to max of 72 hours (bubbles coming to top of water, smells like lemonade with a slight sour smell).
Culturing time can vary depending on the room temperature.
Strain using the plastic strainer and drink the strained water kefir or bottle and put in fridge for later.
Re-use the water kefir crystals for your next culturing

The crystals will multiply so you can share these with your friends and family (like those ’80’s friendship cake starters).