kiwinz

Over recent months I have become highly convinced that good diet + good gut flora is the key to health. I say this as I have had a variety of gastro issues for months and once drinking fermented milk drinks 2x a day they all but vanished within 3 days. I want to further expand this and create a robust gut flora in my system. I have begun making Kefir. First I started with the powdered cultures but I am now trying to source Kefir grains. One thing I can't seem to get a consensus of is wether milk should be heated or not before adding cultures or grains. I am using fresh organic whole milk from the grocer. I am pretty sure this milk has been pasteurized so I do not need to heat it right? I have seen 50% of Kefir making instructions say "heat milk until it steams" and other say "add kefir to milk". So which is it? My first batch of Kefir came out a nice liquid Yogurt consistency. It is an acquired taste I think, so I bought some organic agave extract to sweeten a little. I just want to ensure I am doing the Kefir right.

As for my current gut flora regime:

Morning = Yakult x 1
Noon = multi strain probiotic 40bln
Afternoon = 4 oz Kefir
Dinner = 4 oz Kefir
Before Bed = Yakult x1

I can't begin to state how much this has helped my reflux and bowel issues, I am feeling a "normal" person for the first time in 3 months I also find less stress and better mood since starting this pro-biotic regime.