Lactic Acid…
If you read ingredient labels, you may be familiar with lactic acid, as it is commonly used by many Big Food companies to preserve foods, preventing spoilage, and discoloration. It is also used to add that tart, and tangy flavor to certain foods and beverages.
Ever wonder what lactic acid actually is?
Lactic Acid is a byproduct of bacterial fermentation. In the health world, it is most commonly associated with yogurt (think tangy taste, and healthy bacteria).
When you hear the word, “ferment,” you may wriggle in your chair… it sounds unappealing, right? Actually, the right fermented food products can be very beneficial to our health. But before you go buying up all the packaged goods containing lactic acid, know this: The lactic acid used by Big Food companies, is a non-living organism. It is mass produced with the soul intention of keeping a food product from going bad, or to add flavor. It is not beneficial in any way, shape, or form.
When lactic acid is produced naturally, it can act as a wonderful digestive aid.
Because fermented foods can aid in our digestion, they also strengthen our immunity, and can improve our overall well-being. Why? Fermented foods contain the friendly bacteria, otherwise known as probiotics. These little guys keep other bacteria at bay, and are wonderful in combatting intestinal yeast infections, such as the dreaded Candida (which can cause a slew of unwanted ailments, like fuzzy thinking, weight gain, depression, anxiety, and acne, etc.).
Many individuals consume yogurt, under the assumption that in will increase the healthy bacteria in the body, and aid in digestion. However, generally speaking, yogurt is a congesting, and pasteurized dairy product, often loaded with sugar, sugar, sugar. Even still, and regardless of sugar content, many yogurts do not offer a significant amount of friendly bacteria to make an impact. Lucky for us, there are other ways to receive those healthy probiotics without the consumption of sugar, and or dairy. I discuss those ways here.
If you are a foodie, vegan, or just avoiding dairy and sugar, I have great news for you! You can reap the benefits of lactic acid, by making your very own yogurt, in the comfort of your home! It is easy, and fun!
Raw Coconut Yogurt!
Meat of 1-2 young thai coconuts (about 2 cups)
Blend with 1/2 cup warm water
Open 2 capsules of Udo’s Live probitoics
Blend until smooth.
Add 7-14 drops of Vanilla NuNaturals NuStevia (Get 15% off your order by typing in BLG710 at checkout!),
Cinnamon, and a pinch of Sea Salt (optional). Stir.
Store in a sealed glass container for 24 hours. Keep in a dark, dry, cool place. I put mine in the kitchen cabinet.
24 hours later, you will be able to enjoy this delicious, probiotic rich, tangy yogurt.
Raw. Living. Delicious. (And dairy and soy free!)
Want to see how to make this yogurt, and do so in another way?
This recipe was inspired by the lovely, and talented bakers at pure2raw (these girls always blow me away with their amazing raw desserts). Check out the below video on how to make “Coconut Kefir” from store bought coconut milk!
What do think? Are you up for making your own probiotic rich yogurt? Have you ever fermented foods before? How? What is your favorite recipe? Tell me about your experiences with fermentation! Did you notice any digestive differences?
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