In the world of probiotic (or cultured) dairy products, there are two main foods to choose from: kefir vs. yogurt. So which is better? Both kefir and yogurt are made by fermenting milk, which results in the growth of gut-friendly bacteria, yeasts and microbes. While yogurt may be more well-known and widely available, kefir is…
Tabbed as an “it” health food of the 21st century, kefir is a probiotic drink that contains many bioactive compounds, including up to 30 different strains of "good guy" bacteria. These probiotics, such as lactic acid bacteria, are capable of helping boost immune function and fight against harmful microbes and carcinogens — plus they are often…
Water kefir is a fermented, fizzy drink that has become a fast favorite among health-conscious consumers, all thanks to its delicious flavor, extensive nutrient profile and gut-boosting benefits. Plus, it's often selected over other probiotic-rich foods like milk or coconut kefir because it's dairy-free, vegan-friendly and easy to prepare at home from the comfort of…
Tabbed as an “it” health food of the 21st century, kefir — especially coconut kefir — contains many probiotic, bioactive compounds and as many as 30 strains of good bacteria that help fight against tumors, bacteria, carcinogens and more. (1) What is kefir? It's a delicious, tangy, probiotic drink traditionally made with kefir grains and…
When people think of the mineral calcium, bone health is usually the first thing that comes to mind — but its benefits go far beyond helping to build and maintain a strong skeletal structure. This mineral is also needed to regulate heart rhythms, aid in muscle function, regulate blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and is…
The mouth (aka the oral cavity) is considered to be a major gateway to the rest of the body. Oftentimes, what's happening in the oral microbiome is representative of what's happening elsewhere in the body. It's believed there are between 300 and 700 different microbial species living in the average human's mouth. According to an…
Macaroni and cheese is a comfort food favorite for good reason, no matter if you're going for the original or a variation like cauliflower mac and cheese. It’s hot, it’s cheesy and it’s delicious. But if you’ve ever looked at the ingredients on that famous blue box, you’ll know it’s full of a lot more…
Magnesium plays a central role in just about every bodily process, from the synthesis of DNA to the metabolism of insulin. Low levels of this crucial mineral have even been tied to an entire laundry list of chronic conditions — like Alzheimer’s, diabetes, bone-related issues and heart disease. Thus, it goes without saying that no…
While you may have never heard the term nutrient density before, you’re likely already familiar with the concept of eating mostly nutrient-dense foods. There are many ways that health experts describe the idea of eating a nutrient-dense diet. For example, Dr. Joel Fuhrman, author of the book “Eat to Live,” coined the now-trendy term “nutritarian.” I…
You may have heard that zinc benefits include helping people recovering from colds, but this mineral is also needed by those who aren't sick and who don't have compromised immune function. Ideally this essential mineral should be consumed in small amounts every day in order to maintain overall health and perform hundreds of important functions.…
