logo
#

Latest news with #Lactobacillusacidophilus

Best Probiotic for Bloating, Gas, and Constipation: Top Probiotic Supplements for Gut Health to Reduce Bloating, Indigestion & Flatulence (YourBiology)
Best Probiotic for Bloating, Gas, and Constipation: Top Probiotic Supplements for Gut Health to Reduce Bloating, Indigestion & Flatulence (YourBiology)

Business Upturn

time11-05-2025

  • Health
  • Business Upturn

Best Probiotic for Bloating, Gas, and Constipation: Top Probiotic Supplements for Gut Health to Reduce Bloating, Indigestion & Flatulence (YourBiology)

By GlobeNewswire Published on May 11, 2025, 08:41 IST GLASGOW, United Kingdom, May 10, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Struggling with persistent bloating, excessive gas, or occasional constipation? You're not alone. Digestive discomfort is one of the most common health complaints worldwide. Fortunately, one of the most effective and natural solutions gaining popularity in 2025 is probiotics. These live, beneficial microorganisms play a vital role in supporting gut health and improving digestive function. But with so many options available, you may wonder: Which probiotic is best for bloating and gas? Or what's the best probiotic for bloating, gas and constipation? In this guide, we break down everything you need to know about the top probiotics for digestive health and help you discover the most effective supplement to restore comfort, reduce inflammation, and enhance overall well-being. When bloating, flatulence, or irregularity become a daily struggle, your gut microbiome is often the root cause. Poor dietary choices, stress, antibiotics, or even sedentary lifestyle habits can disrupt the balance of good and bad bacteria in your digestive tract. This imbalance can lead to symptoms such as bloated stomach, abdominal pressure, sluggish bowel movements, and discomfort after eating. Fortunately, probiotic supplements work by reintroducing good bacteria, helping reduce bloating, relieve gas buildup, and ease constipation naturally. If you're asking what is the best probiotic for bloating gas and constipation, we've reviewed the top-rated formulas and found one that consistently outperforms the rest. Click here to check the latest price, offers, and real user reviews on the official YourBiology website. YourBiology Gut+ is the Best Probiotic for Bloating and Gas in 2025 If you're searching for the best probiotic for bloating, gas and constipation, YourBiology Gut+ stands out for several reasons—starting with its thoughtfully formulated blend of clinically researched probiotic strains. Unlike many generic supplements that throw in random bacteria without proven synergy, YourBiology Gut+ is specifically designed to address the root causes of bloating, excess gas, and sluggish digestion. Its formula includes ten carefully selected strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG , Bifidobacterium lactis , Lactobacillus acidophilus , and Lactobacillus plantarum , all of which are widely recognized for their effectiveness in improving digestion, reducing bloating, and supporting bowel regularity. What makes this probiotic particularly effective is its ability to do more than just balance gut flora—it actively supports better digestion from multiple angles. For example, Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) has been shown in clinical studies to strengthen the gut barrier and improve gastrointestinal motility, which is essential for anyone suffering from gas or constipation. Bifidobacterium lactis , another key strain, plays a role in breaking down complex carbs and fiber that often ferment in the gut and cause uncomfortable bloating and pressure. Together, these strains not only improve digestion but also help prevent the buildup of excess gas by ensuring food is broken down more efficiently. YourBiology Gut+ goes even further by including three essential digestive enzymes—amylase, lipase, and protease—which are rarely found in other probiotic formulas. These enzymes work alongside the probiotics to break down carbohydrates, fats, and proteins at the source, reducing the chance of undigested food fermenting in the gut. This is particularly beneficial for those who experience frequent gas, heaviness after meals, or unpredictable digestion. By supporting your body's natural digestive process, this combination helps alleviate symptoms of bloating and constipation in a way that feels both gentle and fast-acting. Click here to learn why it's one of the best probiotics for IBS and bloating in 2025 Another standout feature of YourBiology Gut+ is its MAKtrek® Bipass Technology—a delayed-release capsule system that ensures the probiotics survive the harsh acidic environment of the stomach and reach the intestines intact. This is where they are most effective. Many probiotic supplements lose their potency before reaching the gut, but YourBiology's acid-resistant capsules ensure maximum impact. With 20 billion CFUs per daily dose, you're getting a potent but balanced amount of live cultures that can repopulate the gut without overwhelming your system or causing further discomfort. In addition to its probiotic strains and enzymes, YourBiology Gut+ includes prebiotic fiber and vegan-friendly Vitamin D3. Prebiotics act as food for the good bacteria, helping them grow and multiply, while Vitamin D3 supports immune function and helps reduce gut-related inflammation—an often overlooked contributor to bloating and irregular digestion. This all-in-one formula makes it one of the best supplements for bloating and gut health currently available, especially for those looking for real results without side effects. Unlike some probiotics that cause initial gassiness or discomfort, YourBiology Gut+ is designed to be gentle on the stomach. It's also non-GMO, dairy-free, soy-free, gluten-free, and manufactured in GMP-certified facilities, ensuring safety and quality with every bottle. Many users report noticeable improvements within the first 7–10 days—such as a flatter stomach, less pressure after meals, and more regular bowel movements. For individuals who suffer from constipation-related bloating, this product offers both immediate and lasting relief. YourBiology Gut+ is especially helpful for people whose digestive issues are tied to stress, diet, travel, or previous antibiotic use. By restoring balance to your microbiome, it helps reduce inflammation and enhances your body's ability to digest food properly—so you're not just treating the symptoms of bloating, gas, and constipation, but addressing the underlying causes. It's no wonder this supplement consistently ranks among the top probiotics for gas and bloating, and why it's recommended by health-conscious consumers around the world. If you've been wondering which probiotic is best for gas and bloating—or what's the best probiotic to reduce belly bloat, flatulence, or irregularity—YourBiology Gut+ truly delivers a science-backed, comprehensive solution. Whether your goal is to feel lighter, more energized, or simply more comfortable after meals, this formula checks every box. It's a smart, clean, and effective way to take back control of your gut health—without relying on harsh laxatives, antacids, or guesswork. Order now from the official website and start your gut reset today. What Are Probiotics and How Do They Work? Probiotics are live microorganisms—most often strains of beneficial bacteria—that provide powerful health benefits when consumed in the right amounts. Often referred to as 'good bacteria,' probiotics naturally exist in your body, especially in your gut, where they help maintain a healthy balance in the digestive system. They play a critical role in breaking down food, absorbing nutrients, and keeping harmful bacteria in check. But when that balance is disrupted by things like antibiotics, poor diet, or stress, it can lead to digestive issues like bloating, gas, constipation, or even more serious imbalances like IBS. This is where probiotics come in. By introducing more of these helpful bacteria into your system—either through fermented foods or high-quality supplements—you can help restore balance to your gut microbiome. Once they reach your intestines, probiotics begin to colonize and outcompete the bad bacteria. This leads to smoother digestion, improved bowel movements, reduced inflammation, and fewer symptoms like gas and abdominal bloating. Some strains even produce enzymes and acids that aid in food breakdown, further supporting gut health and reducing the buildup of fermenting food particles that can cause bloating and smelly gas. In short, probiotics work by restoring harmony to your digestive ecosystem, making them one of the best natural remedies for bloating, gas, and even constipation. By taking a targeted probiotic—like YourBiology Gut+—you're not just relieving symptoms, you're addressing the root cause of gut discomfort. What Causes Bloating? Common Triggers… Bloating is more than just a temporary inconvenience—it's a sign that something deeper may be off in your digestive system. Many people experience bloating as a feeling of fullness, tightness, or visible swelling in the belly, often accompanied by excessive gas, cramping, or even constipation. The most common causes of bloating include overeating, eating too quickly, high intake of processed or gas-producing foods (like beans, sugar, or dairy), and low physical activity. Stress also plays a surprisingly big role by disrupting digestion and slowing down the natural movement of the intestines, which can trap gas and lead to a bloated stomach. For many, imbalances in gut bacteria caused by antibiotics, illness, or poor diet are also to blame. This disruption can lead to fermentation of undigested food in the gut—one of the main reasons behind bloating, smelly gas, and irregularity. Which Probiotics Are Best for Gas and Bloating? Key Strains to Look For When choosing the best probiotics for bloating, gas and constipation, strain selection matters. YourBiology Gut+ includes some of the most effective strains, including Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG), known for reducing digestive discomfort and supporting regular bowel movements. Another key strain is Bifidobacterium lactis, which promotes bowel regularity and helps alleviate gas buildup. Lactobacillus acidophilus works to restore balance to the gut microbiome, while Lactobacillus plantarum and Saccharomyces boulardii reduce inflammation and support a healthier gut lining. Together, these strains create a powerful team that targets the root causes of digestive discomfort. Try YourBiology Gut+ today for fast, natural gut support. Top Probiotic Strains That Help Reduce Bloating 1. Lactobacillus plantarum This is one of the most well-studied strains for reducing bloating and abdominal pressure. It helps regulate digestion, break down difficult-to-digest foods, and soothe gut inflammation, making it ideal for individuals with IBS or food sensitivities. 2. Bifidobacterium lactis Known for its ability to ease both bloating and constipation, B. lactis improves bowel regularity, reduces gas formation, and enhances overall digestion. It's especially helpful for people with sluggish bowels or post-antibiotic gut issues. 3. Lactobacillus acidophilus This popular strain helps restore balance in the gut microbiota and improves the digestion of lactose and other carbohydrates, which often cause bloating in sensitive individuals. It also boosts the breakdown of fermentable foods that produce gas. 4. Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG) Highly resilient and clinically proven, LGG supports gut lining integrity and reduces digestive discomfort—including bloating and flatulence. It's particularly beneficial during or after antibiotic use and in cases of stress-related bloating. 5. Bifidobacterium bifidum This strain helps regulate digestion and reduce inflammation, especially in the small intestine. It's effective for reducing bloating linked to IBS and helps rebalance intestinal flora for smoother digestion. 6. Saccharomyces boulardii (a beneficial yeast) Not a bacterial probiotic, but extremely helpful in fighting inflammation and reducing bloating caused by diarrhea or gut infections. It also supports the healing of the gut lining. Can Probiotics Reduce Bloating and Constipation?Yes, clinical studies support that probiotics can significantly reduce symptoms of bloating, gas, and even chronic constipation. They help regulate intestinal transit time, improve stool consistency, and lower inflammation in the gut. Many users report feeling lighter, less bloated, and more regular within just a few weeks of starting a high-quality probiotic like YourBiology Gut+. In fact, it's one of the best supplements for bloating and gut health available today, and thanks to its unique combination of probiotics, digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and Vitamin D3, it works well for both men and women. The Role of Fermented Foods in Gut Health Fermented foods play a powerful role in maintaining a healthy gut and supporting digestion naturally. These foods are rich in live probiotics, the same beneficial bacteria found in quality supplements, which help balance your gut microbiome—the complex ecosystem of bacteria living in your digestive tract. When consumed regularly, fermented foods can help relieve common digestive issues like bloating, gas, and constipation by replenishing good bacteria, enhancing enzyme activity, and reducing inflammation in the gut. Examples of probiotic-rich fermented foods include yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, miso, tempeh, and kombucha. These foods are naturally teeming with strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium , which are among the best probiotics for bloating and gut health. For instance, sauerkraut and kimchi not only support digestion but also contain prebiotic fiber—fuel for the good bacteria—making them a double benefit for your microbiome. Yogurt with active cultures is especially helpful in easing lactose intolerance symptoms, while kefir offers a wide variety of probiotic strains and beneficial yeasts that promote smoother digestion and regularity. Incorporating fermented foods into your diet can enhance the effects of a probiotic supplement like YourBiology Gut+, making your gut health regimen even more effective. While supplements provide a consistent dose of targeted strains, fermented foods offer dietary diversity that supports long-term microbial balance. This combination can lead to less bloating after meals, more regular bowel movements, and overall improved digestion. However, it's important to note that not all fermented foods are created equal. Some store-bought products are pasteurized, which kills the live probiotics. Always look for labels that say 'contains live and active cultures.' And if you're sensitive to histamines or have IBS, start slowly—too much fermentation too fast can actually cause more gas or bloating initially. In short, fermented foods are a natural, delicious way to boost your gut health—and when paired with a high-quality supplement like YourBiology Gut+, they can help restore balance, reduce bloating, and promote a healthier digestive system from the inside out. Support your gut with fermented foods—and amplify the results with YourBiology Gut+ Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes: Why You Need Both for Bloating Relief Probiotics and digestive enzymes work together to improve digestion and reduce common gut issues like bloating, gas, and constipation. Probiotics help balance your gut bacteria, preventing the overgrowth of bad microbes that cause discomfort. Digestive enzymes—like amylase, protease, and lipase—break down carbs, proteins, and fats, stopping undigested food from fermenting and causing gas. When combined, they create a powerful digestive duo. Probiotics support long-term gut health, while enzymes provide fast relief from post-meal bloating. Supplements like YourBiology Gut+ include both, making it one of the best options for smoother digestion and a flatter, more comfortable stomach. Antibiotic-Associated Diarrhea and Probiotics While antibiotics are essential for fighting infections, they don't just kill bad bacteria—they also wipe out the good bacteria in your gut. This disruption often leads to antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD), a common side effect that causes loose stools, bloating, cramping, and urgency during or after antibiotic treatment. Probiotics can play a critical role in preventing and relieving AAD. By restoring balance to your gut microbiome, probiotics help replenish the healthy bacteria that antibiotics destroy. Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG and Saccharomyces boulardii are especially effective, as they've been clinically shown to reduce the risk and severity of antibiotic-related diarrhea and protect against harmful bacteria like C. difficile . Taking a trusted probiotic supplement—like YourBiology Gut+—during and after your antibiotic course helps restore digestive balance, ease inflammation, and support faster recovery. It's a safe, natural way to protect your gut and avoid uncomfortable side effects. IBS Symptoms and Probiotics: Can They Help? Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) is a chronic digestive condition that causes a mix of uncomfortable symptoms—bloating, gas, cramping, diarrhea, constipation, or all of the above. These symptoms often come and go unpredictably, making day-to-day life difficult. While the exact cause of IBS isn't fully understood, many experts agree that an imbalanced gut microbiome and inflammation play a key role. That's where probiotics come in. Certain strains—like Bifidobacterium infantis , Lactobacillus plantarum , and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG —have been clinically shown to help reduce IBS-related bloating, regulate bowel movements, and soothe abdominal discomfort. By restoring balance to the gut and improving how your body processes food, probiotics can help calm an irritated digestive system and support long-term relief. If you're struggling with IBS symptoms, a targeted probiotic like YourBiology Gut+ may offer real, natural support—without the side effects of prescription meds. Click here to try it now from the official website. More Than Just Bloating Relief: The Full-Body Benefits of Probiotics While probiotics are best known for easing bloating, gas, and constipation, their benefits go far beyond digestive comfort. These 'good bacteria' play a key role in supporting your overall health, starting with your immune system. In fact, nearly 70–75% of your immune cells live in the gut, and a balanced microbiome helps defend against infections, reduce inflammation, and strengthen immune response. Probiotics also influence your mental well-being through the gut-brain axis—a communication network between your digestive system and your brain. Strains like Lactobacillus rhamnosus have been linked to lower stress levels, improved mood, and even reduced symptoms of anxiety and brain fog. In addition, a healthy gut promotes better skin health, hormonal balance, and more efficient nutrient absorption, which can lead to better energy levels and clearer skin. Best Probiotic Supplements for Gut Health, Bloating, and Digestion: What They Do and Why They Matter Probiotic dietary supplements are one of the easiest and most effective ways to support gut health, especially for people struggling with bloating, gas, constipation, or irregular digestion. While fermented foods offer natural sources of good bacteria, supplements provide a consistent, controlled dose of specific strains that are clinically proven to support digestive function and microbiome balance. The best probiotic supplements for bloating and gas—like YourBiology Gut+—go a step further by combining probiotics with digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and supportive nutrients like Vitamin D3. This creates a complete digestive support system that not only helps reduce bloating and improve regularity, but also boosts nutrient absorption, immune response, and even mental clarity. When choosing a probiotic, look for: Clinically studied strains (like Lactobacillus plantarum or Bifidobacterium lactis ) (like or ) High-quality manufacturing (GMP-certified, third-party tested) (GMP-certified, third-party tested) Targeted formulas that address gas, bloating, and constipation directly Probiotic supplements are a smart, natural way to support your body from the inside out—especially when digestion is off-track or gut imbalance is causing daily discomfort. Are Probiotics Safe? Side Effects and Things You Should Know For most healthy adults, probiotics are considered safe and well-tolerated, especially when taken as directed. In fact, high-quality supplements like YourBiology Gut+ are designed to be gentle on the stomach, even for those with sensitive digestion. However, some people may experience mild side effects during the first few days—like gas, bloating, or slight stomach discomfort—as the gut adjusts to the influx of new bacteria. These symptoms usually go away quickly. To reduce the chance of side effects, it's best to start with the recommended dose and stay consistent. Choosing a probiotic with an acid-resistant delivery system (like MAKtrek® technology in YourBiology) also improves tolerance and effectiveness by ensuring the live strains reach the gut intact. If you're pregnant, immunocompromised, or dealing with serious medical conditions, you should always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. But for the vast majority of people, probiotics are a safe and powerful tool to improve gut health and digestive comfort naturally—without the side effects of medications or laxatives. Can Probiotics Help Prevent Clostridium difficile (C. diff)? What You Need to Know for Gut Protection Clostridium difficile, often referred to as C. diff, is a harmful bacterium that can cause serious digestive issues like chronic diarrhea, intestinal inflammation, and even life-threatening colitis. It's most commonly triggered by antibiotic use, which wipes out not just harmful bacteria but also the good gut bacteria that keep your digestive system in balance. Without these beneficial microbes, C. diff can multiply rapidly and take over, resulting in painful and persistent symptoms. That's where probiotics may offer real protection. Certain strains—especially Saccharomyces boulardii and Lactobacillus rhamnosus GG (LGG)—have been shown in studies to reduce the risk of C. diff infections by helping repopulate the gut with beneficial bacteria and crowding out harmful strains. These probiotics also strengthen the gut lining and support immune defenses, creating a less favorable environment for C. diff to thrive. Supplements like YourBiology Gut+, which include multiple clinically supported strains, can be an important part of a recovery or prevention plan—especially when taken during or after antibiotic treatments. While probiotics are not a standalone treatment for C. diff, they can act as a preventive measure and support faster gut restoration after disruptions. If you're taking antibiotics or have a history of digestive infections, incorporating the right probiotics could make a significant difference in maintaining long-term gut health and microbiome resilience. Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Probiotic for Bloating and Gas, Constipation, and Better Gut Health in 2025 Finding the best probiotic for bloating, gas, and constipation doesn't have to be overwhelming. With so many supplements claiming to support gut health, it's important to choose one that actually works—using science-backed strains, proper CFU counts, and clean, effective delivery systems. Whether you're struggling with a bloated stomach after meals, irregular bowel movements, or just want to improve your digestion and feel lighter, a high-quality probiotic like YourBiology Gut+ checks all the right boxes. Its formula combines 10 proven probiotic strains, digestive enzymes, prebiotics, and vitamin D3—making it one of the most complete gut health supplements for bloating and gas on the market today. Plus, it's gentle, non-GMO, and backed by a 60-day money-back guarantee. When taken consistently, it not only improves digestion but also supports your immunity, energy, and even skin health. So if you've been wondering which probiotic is best for gas and bloating , or looking for a safe, natural way to take control of your gut, YourBiology Gut+ is a smart place to start. Listen to your gut—it's time to feel better from the inside out. CLICK HERE to check the latest price, reviews, and offers for YourBiology Gut+ on the official website. Manufactured under the Technical Guidance of: Project name: YourBiology Address – WOLFSON BRANDS (UK) LIMITED, 12 Payne Street, Glasgow, G4 0LF United Kingdom Company website: Email: [email protected] Contact – +1 888-708-6394 Media Contact: Full Name – Neil Bowers Email: [email protected] Disclaimer: The statements made regarding this product have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Results may vary from person to person. Always seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional before using any dietary supplements. Disclosure: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Some links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning we may earn a commission if you choose to make a purchase through them. This comes at no additional cost to you. Please consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement routine. Related Links: Photos accompanying this announcement are available at Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with GlobeNewswire. Business Upturn takes no editorial responsibility for the same. GlobeNewswire provides press release distribution services globally, with substantial operations in North America and Europe.

Fizzy Fermentation: How to Make Your Own Kefir Soda
Fizzy Fermentation: How to Make Your Own Kefir Soda

Epoch Times

time06-05-2025

  • Health
  • Epoch Times

Fizzy Fermentation: How to Make Your Own Kefir Soda

Cassia Egerdahl makes milk kefir for her young children to enjoy the health benefits associated with the probiotic-rich dairy drink. However, she's been personally avoiding milk kefir since childhood because she doesn't like the flavor. 'I'm the kind of person who won't eat something if I don't like it,' Egerdahl told The Epoch Times. 'I thought I should get some of these probiotics for myself, too, so I got online to look for other probiotic drinks.' As a busy mom, she wanted something simple with as few steps as possible that would taste pleasant. She discovered kefir soda, a type of probiotic fermented drink with a sweet, tangy flavor and a slightly carbonated touch—easy to make at home. Kefir soda, also called water kefir or fermented soda, is becoming more popular among vegans and those who cannot tolerate dairy. Unlike milk kefir, kefir soda's fermentation doesn't start with milk but with water kefir grains. With a few supplies and a little time, you can create endless flavored, bubbly drinks in your own kitchen. Water kefir offers health benefits without the additives and sugars in most fizzy drinks on grocery store shelves. Get to Know Kefir Grains Water kefir grains are a clump of soft, jelly-like translucent white or grey grains made up of healthy bacteria and yeast. You can use them for multiple fermentations to create healthy water. Most people flavor the microbe-rich water with fresh fruit or fruit juice in a second fermentation. Related Stories 3/31/2025 2/1/2024 While coconut kefir soda is particularly popular, any kind of juice—or fresh fruit—can be used to make a kefir soda. The higher the sugar content, the more fizzy the drink. During fermentation, the microbes eat the sugar, turning it into lactic acid and making carbon dioxide. This process significantly reduces the sugar content in the water. Water kefir grains are different from milk kefir grains, which resemble cauliflower and need a dairy medium to ferment. Besides taste, water kefir soda differs in being more bubbly than its dairy counterpart. You can buy water kefir grains raw or dehydrated. In many cases, the precise microbes in the finished drink can sometimes be a mystery. Not all products label the specific bacteria and yeast in their ingredients, and even if they do, the exact amounts in the final composition are difficult to determine. Common probiotics that have been isolated from kefir water include strains of Lactobacillus acidophilus, Lactobacillus delbrueckii, Lactobacillus kefiranofaciens, Lactobacillus mali, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, according to a Bubbly and Beneficial According to the review authors, water kefir contains compounds with proven health benefits for preventing, managing, and treating chronic disease symptoms. Studies, however, are sparse. Animal research has found water kefir to be anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antioxidant, and antidiabetic, while having intestinal health-promoting effects: Antidiabetic effects were noted in rats with improved glucose levels, less insulin intolerance, and altered genes that balance glucose levels. Antioxidant activity was identified in enzyme activity that reduced gastric ulcers in mice and improved oxidation. Antimicrobial effects were noted in the compounds produced during water kefir fermentation, such as organic acids, which inhibit the growth of disease-causing microorganisms. Anti-inflammatory benefits were discovered in rats that made more short-chain fatty acids that help exert a protective, anti-inflammatory effect on the intestinal barrier. Such effects could improve the intestinal mucosal barrier, decreasing or stopping potentially toxic molecules from passing through it into the bloodstream. Some research shows that supplementation with some of the probiotics found in water kefir can lower production of Immunoglobulin E (IgE) associated with allergic reactions. 'Given the possible evidence of water kefir in relation to various pathological clinical conditions, water kefir may be classified as a probiotic food in the future. It could be utilized to prevent and treat various diseases,' the authors wrote. Although commercial kefir sodas contain live microbes, they can't be labeled as probiotics, as fermenting is not a uniform process. Probiotic labels must specify exact colonies and strains, which would require further testing of the sodas. Commercial kefir sodas may have additives, including high amounts of sugar, which is why Egerdahl prefers to make her own. An Easy DIY Preparing your kefir grains for fermentation only takes about five minutes, and another five minutes to add juice for a second fermentation. Note, kefir grains aren't actual grains but clusters of bacteria and yeast that multiply when fed. As soon as you begin 'feeding' them with sugar, you'll have the foundation for making continuous kefir water. Egerdahl shared her directions for making a bubbly version of kefir water: Photo courtesy of The Ancestors Table. Step 1: In a half-gallon container, dissolve half a cup of sweetener with half a gallon of hot non-chlorinated water (some recipes call for spring water). You can use brown sugar, molasses, syrup, or sugar, preferably organic. Photo courtesy of The Ancestors Table. Step 2: Once your sugar water has cooled , add half a cup of kefir grains it, and loosely cover—a coffee filter secured with a rubber band works great. Allow to ferment for 24 to 48 hours in a dark corner of your kitchen counter. Fermentation generally takes longer in cooler temperatures. You can taste your water kefir to see if it's done. It should have a tangy, slightly sour, and mildly sweet flavor. Photo courtesy of The Ancestors Table. Step 3: Strain the grains with a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth. Photo courtesy of The Ancestors Table. Step 4: Pour one-fourth to one-half cup of fruit juice into the bottom of a 32-ounce flip-top bottle made for brewing. Set aside one-half cup of your kefir water and add the remaining to the bottle, leaving two inches of head space. Photo courtesy of The Ancestors Table. Step 5: Set the bottle on your counter for the second fermentation. 'Burp' it every six to 12 hours by slowly popping off the lid to release air. Pressure can build up quickly in the bottles, so you may want to release the lid over a sink. Depending on the temperature, it can take from 12 hours to three days to get bubbly. Once it's fermented, you can store it in the refrigerator. Continue to burp the bottle daily. Step 6: Add the one-half cup of set-aside kefir water to a half-gallon jar with one-half cup of sweetener. Fill with filtered water, seal, and store in your refrigerator. You can use this water to start your next batch. Note: Every three or four ferments, add a lemon slice for the first fermentation to prevent the overgrowth of Kahm yeast, a harmless microbe that can alter the flavor of your water. Alternatively, you can cut out the initial fermentation in steps one and two by using kefir soda starter sachets made by companies like Cultures for Health and Cutting Edge Cultures. After making the first bottle, which takes two to three days to ferment, you can use half a cup of your juice instead of the soda starter. Egerdahl and her children love using grape juice for a grape-flavored soda drink, though lately she's been making their beloved drink with tart cherry juice. Tart cherries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. 'The second ferment is what makes it fizzy and taste more like soda,' Egerdahl said. 'I don't have time for a bunch of hands-on steps, so it works really well for us.' Recipes You can create limitless flavor combinations with kefir soda. Cultured Food Life shared two options: Photo courtesy of Cultured Food Life. Apple Ginger Kefir Soda Ingredients 1 packet kefir soda starter or ¼ cup kefir whey 2 cups apple juice 2 tablespoons fresh juiced ginger Water spring or filtered with minerals Steps In a glass bowl, add the kefir soda starter or kefir whey to the juice and stir until dissolved. Juice your ginger using either a garlic press or a juicer. Add ginger and apple juice to a 32-ounce bottle. (Make sure you use bottles such as Grolsch or Bormioli thick glass bottles. Bottles bought at craft stores can explode.) Fill the rest of the bottle with water, leaving an inch of room at the top. Allow it to ferment for three to seven days or until bubbly and fizzy. If your home is 75 degrees F or warmer, it will usually take three to four days to ferment. Fermentation in colder homes can take five days or longer, but you'll need to check it by popping the top and see if it's getting fizzy. It will start to bubble out the top if it does. When it's done, you can pour it into a glass and enjoy right away or place it in the fridge. It will continue to ferment in the fridge, so burp it daily and use it within 1 to 2 weeks for the most benefits and the best flavor. Photo courtesy of Cultured Food Life Lemonade Kefir Soda Ingredients 1 packet kefir soda starter or ¼ cup kefir whey ¼ cup sucanat or raw sugar 2 ounces lemon juice, fresh squeezed (orange juice works too!) Water spring or filtered with minerals – lightly filtered or spring Steps Add a cup of warm water to a bowl and add the Sucanat (or raw sugar) to dissolve. Add lemon juice and make sure the liquid is at room temp. Add the kefir soda starter or kefir whey to your juice mixture and stir till dissolved. Pour the mixture into a bottle, a funnel helps. Make sure you use bottles such as Grolsch or Bormioli thick glass bottles. Bottles bought at craft stores can explode. Fill the rest of the bottle with water, leaving an inch of room at the top. Allow it to ferment for three to five days or until bubbly and fizzy. If your home is 75°F or warmer, it usually takes three to four days. Colder homes can take five days to a week or longer, but you'll need to check it by popping the top and see if it's getting fizzy. It will start to bubble out the top if it does. When it's done, you can pour it into a glass and enjoy it right away or place it in the fridge. It will continue to ferment in the fridge, so burp it daily and drink it within one to two weeks for the most benefits and the best flavor. Re-Culturing From Your First Bottle You can use ⅓ cup of your finished kefir soda as a starter to make a new bottle. Add the other ingredients and ferment again. It should only take half to a full day to ferment. It ferments faster, and you can make many bottles over and over again.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into the world of global news and events? Download our app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store