Anyone make their own Kefir?

[madfranks]

I am thinking of making my own probiotic milk instead of buying it at the store like I do now, so I've been researching Kefir, and how to make it. From this site:

Q. What is kefir?

A. Kefir is a probiotic beverage made with either Kefir Grains or a powdered Kefir Starter Culture. There are two types of grains, Milk Kefir Grains and Water Kefir Grains. Milk (dairy) Kefir Grains can be used with cow milk, goat milk or coconut milk. Water Kefir Grains can be used with sugar water, juice or coconut water. Kefir Grains consist of bacteria and yeast existing in a symbiotic relationship. The term Kefir Grains describes the look of the culture only. Kefir Grains contain no actual "grains" such as wheat, rye, etc. Our kefir grains are grown in filtered water and organic sugar.

Basically you put the kefir grains into milk and let it sit at room temperature for a day or so, and you get a resultant probiotic drink that is supposed to be superior to what you can buy pre-made at the store.

http://www.culturesforhealth.com/mil...-questions-faq

http://www.culturesforhealth.com/med...structions.pdf

[madfranks]

[ImaCannin]

I make my own kefir from fresh squeezed goats milk. I bought my original grains from cultures for heath. To put it Simply... THEY SUCKED! I ended throwing them away and buying from another company and have been using them almost a year. If you want some, I can mail them to you for shipping cost or you can go to www.yemoos.com and order your own. Another good web page with tons of info is http://users.sa.chariot.net.au/~dna/kefirpage.html . Taking Kefir has totally turned my digestive issues around.

I use this strainer.

In addition to beneficial bacteria and yeast, kefir contains minerals and essential amino acids that help the body with healing and maintenance functions. The complete proteins in kefir are partially digested and therefore more easily utilized by the body. Tryptophan, one of the essential amino acids abundant in kefir, is well known for its relaxing effect on the nervous system. Because kefir also offers an abundance of calcium and magnesium, which are also important minerals for a healthy nervous system, kefir in the diet can have a particularly profound calming effect on the nerves.

Kefir’s ample supply of phosphorus, the second most abundant mineral in our bodies, helps utilize carbohydrates, fats, and proteins for cell growth, maintenance and energy.

Kefir is rich in Vitamin B12, B1, and Vitamin K. It is an excellent source of biotin, a B Vitamin which aids the body’s assimilation of other B Vitamins, such as folic acid, pantothenic acid, and B12. The numerous benefits of maintaining adequate B vitamin intake range from regulation of the kidneys, liver and nervous system to helping relieve skin disorders, boost energy and promote longevity.

Easily digested, it cleanses the intestines, provides beneficial bacteria and yeast, vitamins and minerals, and complete proteins. Because kefir is such a balanced and nourishing food, it contributes to a healthy immune system and has been used to help patients suffering from AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome, herpes, and cancer. Its tranquilizing effect on the nervous system has benefited many who suffer from sleep disorders, depression, and ADHD (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder).

The regular use of kefir can help relieve all intestinal disorders, promote bowel movement, reduce flatulence and create a healthier digestive system. In addition, its cleansing effect on the whole body helps to establish a balanced inner ecosystem for optimum health and longevity.

Kefir can also help eliminate unhealthy food cravings by making the body more nourished and balanced. Its excellent nutritional content offers healing and health-maintenance benefits to people in every type of condition.http://www.kefir.net

Numbers don’t lie
One capsule of man-made probiotics normally contains about 15 billion bacteria.

One small bowl of fresh yogurt (500 ml), contains about 1.5 trillion beneficial organisms. – 100 times more than a 15 billion capsule.

And one small bowl of fresh kefir (500 ml), contains as many as
5 trillion beneficial organisms. Almost 400 times more than a capsule.

[Heimdhal]

i need to try this. I've always had a really crappy digestive system. Since I lost my gall bladder and some pretty serious trauma to my abdomen, I've been having an even more difficult time.

THeres a raw milk place up the road from us, very small quantities, but they have kefir. I think its time I jump on board. Thanks for the info, guys!

[madfranks]

If you want some, I can mail them to you for shipping cost or you can go to www.yemoos.com and order your own.

Thanks for the offer, you're very kind, but I won't trouble you by taking you up on it. I appreciate the feedback on Cultures for Health, and I think I found a nice Kefir kit on the site you posted. I have to admit, since drinking probiotic milk (a few months now), I just feel better. I don't know how to describe it, I just feel healthier.

[Shami-Amourae]

Here's a copy of Sally Fallon's Nourishing Traditions book. It has the recipe and many others like it inside.

http://www.sendspace.com/file/g5komr

[sunshine05]

Yes, I used to make it and it was really easy but after a while I let it go so I would need to get new grains. I got the original ones from a friend. I may order some grains. Thanks for the idea!