This is an amazing article by Dr. Axe and this is why I recommend goat, coconut milk or coconut water kefir for our pets. Dogs and cats don't process cow's milk so you don't want to feed cow milk kefir to your pets. Kefir Benefits by Dr. Axe Kefir is a unique cultured dairy product that is one of the most probiotic rich foods on the planet and has incredible medicinal benefits for healing issues like leaky gut. Its unique name comes from the Turkish work “keif”, which means “good feeling”. For centuries, it has been used in European and Asian folk medicine due to the wide variety of conditions it has been known to cure. When made correctly, it is one of my favorite drinks and, after reading this article, I hope that you consider including it into your regular natural health regimen. Kefir Nutrition Facts Kefir is a fermented milk product (cow, goat or sheep milk) that tastes like a drinkable yogurt. Kefir contains high levels of vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium, vitamin K2, biotin, folate, enzymes and probiotics. Because kefir does not have a standardized nutrition content, the content values can vary based on the cows, cultures, and region where it is produced. Yet even with the range in values, kefir has superior nutrition. Because of kefir’s unique set of nutrients it has been show to benefit the body in 7 main ways:
KEFIR PROBIOTICS ARE POWERFULSince the beginning of time, every culture has pickled and fermented foods primarily to preserve them. Unknowingly, they were magnificently creating superfoods jam-packed with healthy microorganisms (also known as “probiotics”) and regularly enjoyed healthy, long lives because of them. In his Theory of Longevity, Nobel Laureate Elie Metchnikoff pioneered research suggesting that fermented milk has significant health benefits back in the early 20th century. Since then, research has proven time and time again that the age-old practice of fermentation is good medicine because of the “healthy bacteria” that are contained within these foods. A list of the more common probiotics that we regularly see in fermented foods include:
At this point you may be wondering: why would we want to eat foods with bacteria in them? Don’t people take antibiotics to kill the bacteria so that they can feel better? Living in the American “antibacterial” culture, where hand sanitizer is only an arm’s length away, it may seem like suicide for people to knowingly eat foods or drink beverages filled with microorganisms. However, nothing could be further from the truth! The key to understanding this is to learn a little bit about your gut. KEFIR GRAINS GOOD FOR YOUR MICROBIOMEDid you know that over 75% of your immune system is housed in your digestive system? Essentially, trillions upon trillions of “good” bacteria and fungus kill the “bad” microorganisms, which keeps you alive and well. So what happens when you take antibiotics or regularly use antibacterial lotions and soaps? You literally kill the good bacteria and the bad ones take over. This, in turn, disturbs the symbiosis (balance) of your microbiome which will lead to digestive issues and immune reactions. Studies have linked everything from autism to most chronic diseases to leaky gut syndrome and improper digestion. Bottom line is that if you can’t absorb the nutrients in your food because you don’t have the proper bacteria balance in your gut, your body will never run on all cylinders because it lacks the fuel. KEFIR HEALTH BENEFITS PROVEN BY MEDICAL STUDIESFirst described by tribes in Russia, “kefir grains” are actually not grains at all, but are a delicate balance of yeast and bacteria. Able to ferment milk in around 24 hours, kefir grains can transform raw milk into a Superfood probiotic drink (kefir), a naturally-carbonated, refreshing beverage that has several key medicinal benefits. Rich in Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium bifidum, kefir also provides significant amounts of lactic acid bacteria and beneficial yeast. In fact, the cocktail of beneficial microbiota within kefir makes it one of the most powerful probiotic foods on the planet! 1. Fights Cancer – Consumption of fermented foods has been shown to kill several different types of cancerous tumors in animal studies. The Journal of Dairy Science, for example, published a study that evaluated the immune cells in mice and discovered that regular kefir consumption helps stop breast cancer growth. 2. Supports Detoxification – “Mutagens” are various agents that can literally alter your DNA and can be found everywhere in our environment. Aflatoxins, for example, are food-born toxins created by mold and can be found in many ground nuts (which is why peanut butter causes allergies and immune reactions), crude vegetable oils (like canola, soybean, and cottonseed), and grains (wheat, soy, and corn). Being rich in lactic acid bacteria, kefir can literally bind (kill) aflatoxins and other funguses, which helps preserve healthy genetic expression. 3. Boosts Immunity – Next time you get sick, think twice about taking an antibiotic and drink kefir instead. A study out of University College Cork in Ireland compared Lactobacillus probiotic preparations, and compared them to conventional antibiotics in three animal models that are similar to humans. They discovered that, “In all three animal diseases we observed a positive effect in that the animals were significantly protected against infection.” In fact, the researchers discovered that probiotics worked as well as or even better than antibiotic therapy in not only eliminating the infectious agent, but in resolving symptoms! 4. Builds Bone Density – A 2014 study published in the journal of Osteoporosis International found that consuming kefir benefits bone density and can reduce the risk of osteoporosis. The researchers found kefir works by increasing the absorption of bone building minerals of calcium and magnesium. The probiotics in kefir improve nutrient absorption and the dairy itself contains all of the most important nutrients for improving bone density including phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, vitamin D and vitamin K2. 5. Heals IBS and IBD – Because of the high doses of probiotics including the strains of lactobacillus and bifidobacterium kefir is also an effective natural treatment for irritable bowel syndrome. A study published in a Canadian medical journal found that probiotic rich foods, including yogurt and kefir, can help heal IBS and reduce bowel inflammation. 6. Allergies and Asthma – In a recent study published in the Journal of Immunology, kefir was found to have both positive effects on allergies and asthma. In the study, kefir significantly suppressed inflammatory markers of interleukin-4, T-helper cells and IgE immunoglobulins. The researchers stated that kefir has strong anti-inflammatory properties that could prove useful in the prevention of asthma. 7. Improves Lactose Intolerance – It may sound crazy, but yes fermented milk products like kefir can help people with milk-related lactose intolerance. To grip your brain around this, you have to keep in mind that fermentation changes the chemical make-up of foods and, as in the case of fermented milk, kefir is relatively low in lactose. Additionally, if you struggle with lactose problems, you may want to try adding kefir to your diet in small amounts because a study in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association showed that, “Kefir improves lactose digestion and tolerance in adults with lactose malabsorption.” As a disclaimer: although I have found most people do very well with goat’s milk kefir a small percent of people may still have issues with dairy. If you have had lactose intolerance, my advice is to try it first by placing a small drop of the kefir on the inside of you arm or wrist and let it dry. Then wait 24 hours and see if you have any inflammation. If you do, then steer clear of it. But if not, then try adding just a drop or two to a beverage or some food and see if you have any reaction. You can then increase the amount until you are certain that you are not reacting to it. As with any food or diet, make sure to listen to your body. NOTE: If you have had an allergic reaction with any dairy, then I would seek advice from your doctor or natural health practitioner on how to test your allergies without ingesting the kefir. Types of Kefir
You’ll be happy to know that even if you cannot tolerate having any dairy, there are types of kefir that are still rich in probiotics and have plenty of healthy kefir benefits, but that are completely lactose and dairy free. There are essentially two main types of kefir, and they differ in multiple ways. The two types of kefir are: milk kefir (made from cow, sheep, or goat milk but also from coconut milk) and water kefir (made from sugary water or coconut water, both of which do not contain any dairy). While the base liquid used in different types of kefirs vary, the process for making kefir is still the same and the health benefits are thought to be present in both types. All kefir is made using kefir “grains”, which are a yeast/bacterial fermentation starter. All types of kefirs are similar to kombucha (another healthy probiotic-rich drink favorite) in that they must have sugar either naturally present, or else added, in order to allow the healthy bacteria to grow and for the fermentation process to take place. However the end result is that both kombucha and kefir are very low in sugar, because the live active yeast essentially “eats” the large majority of the added sugar during fermentation. Here is more information about how the different types of kefirs are made and how their tastes and uses differ: Milk Kefir (made with goat, cow, or sheep’s milk) Types of Kefir You’ll be happy to know that even if you cannot tolerate having any dairy, there are types of kefir that are still rich in probiotics and have plenty of healthy kefir benefits, but that are completely lactose and dairy free. There are essentially two main types of kefir, and they differ in multiple ways. The two types of kefir are: milk kefir (made from cow, sheep, or goat milk but also from coconut milk) and water kefir (made from sugary water or coconut water, both of which do not contain any dairy). While the base liquid used in different types of kefirs vary, the process for making kefir is still the same and the health benefits are thought to be present in both types. All kefir is made using kefir “grains”, which are a yeast/bacterial fermentation starter. All types of kefirs are similar to kombucha (another healthy probiotic-rich drink favorite) in that they must have sugar either naturally present, or else added, in order to allow the healthy bacteria to grow and for the fermentation process to take place. However the end result is that both kombucha and kefir are very low in sugar, because the live active yeast essentially “eats” the large majority of the added sugar during fermentation. Here is more information about how the different types of kefirs are made and how their tastes and uses differ: Milk Kefir (made with goat, cow, or sheep’s milk) Coconut Kefir Coconut kefir can be made either using coconut milk or coconut water. Coconut milk comes directly from coconuts and is made by blending coconut “meat” (the white, thick part of the inside of a coconut) with water, and then straining the pulp out so only a milky liquid is left. Coconut water is the clear liquid that is held inside coconuts naturally, which would come out if you were to crack open the coconut. Both types of coconut kefirs do not contain any dairy. Coconut water and coconut milk are said to be the perfect base for creating fermented kefir because they naturally have carbohydrates present, including sugars, which are needed to be consumed by the yeast during the fermentation process to create healthy bacteria. Coconut kefir is made in the same way as milk kefir, using a traditional starter culture that contains live active yeast and bacteria. Coconut kefir becomes more tart and also carbonated once fermented, and tends to be sweeter and less strongly flavored than milk kefir is. Both types of coconut kefir still taste like natural coconut and also keep all of the nutritional benefits of unfermented plain coconut milk and water (potassium, and electrolytes, for example). Water Kefir Water kefir tends to have a more subtle taste and a lighter texture than milk kefir does. Water Kefir is normally made using sugar water or fruit juice. Water kefir is made in a similar way as milk and coconut kefirs. Just like milk kefir, plain water kefir can be flavored at home using your own healthy additions, and makes a great healthy alternative to drinking things like soda or processed fruit juice. You will want to use water kefir differently than you would use milk kefir: try adding water kefir to smoothies, healthy desserts, oatmeal, salad dressing, or just drink it plain. Since it has a less creamy texture and is less tart, it is not the best substitute for dairy products in recipes. If you’d like to drink water kefir on its own, make sure you buy a kind that is low in sugar and then consider adding your own fruit or herbs to give it more flavor. Try having water kefir with fresh squeezed lemon and lime juice, mint, or cucumber to flavor your water kefir naturally, or make a healthy soda alternative by combining water kefir with club soda or seltzer for a virtually sugar-free carbonated drink. No matter the type of kefir you choose to consume, look for a high-quality brand that is preferably organic. Choose kefirs that are low in sugar and added flavors, and then try flavoring it yourself at home where you have control over the amount of sugar being used. All types of kefir should be refrigerated and it’s best to keep them in glass bottles, so that plastic or any BPA that might be present, cannot leach into the kefir. Do you drink kefir or yogurt? What kefir benefits have you experienced from it? Resources:
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BY DR. PETER DOBIAS, DVM
This is great information to help with feeding a raw or cooked homemade diet. I have been following Dr. Dobias for awhile and I love all of his work and information on feeding our dogs a healthy diet to keep them healthy and happy. If you are feeding a raw diet, you may already know that the commonly followed ratio of meat, raw bones and veggies is 50/25/25. While I agree that this ratio works well for most dogs, many of you ask me about what veggies and fruit to feed and which ones to avoid. What do I recommend? Follow nature’s recipe! Let’s start with fruit I recommend that you give Fido only small amounts of fruit, (less than 5%) as dogs usually eat only small amounts of fruit in nature.
Because protein takes longer to digest and if you feed fruit and protein together, fruit may start to ferment, creating alcohol. The next thing you know, your dog is “under the influence” staggering around the house. On a more serious note, the most important reason is that fruit simply doesn’t digest as well with protein. On its own, fruit exits the stomach quickly. When you feed fruit with protein, it sits in the stomach much longer which may create undesirable fermentation which can create a small amount of alcohol. Eat your veggies and give your dog some too Did your mom tell you to eat your veggies? Of course she did and you listened, didn't you? If dogs had a choice, many of them would skip vegetables all together because they are like kids. Skai doesn't mind finely ground veggies, however, if I cut them in bigger chunks, he is a master at picking pieces and spitting them out. One of the reasons why some dogs refuse to eat vegetables is that in natural settings, wild canines eat plant material pre-digested. When you prepare your dog’s veggies, I recommend using a food processor or a juicer to “predigest” or puree Fido’s veg’. The other option is to purchase frozen finely ground veggies from a natural dog food store. Dogs like veggies pre-digested If Martha Stewart or The Naked Chef are your kind of people, read on. I have something very important to tell you about making veggies. It is simple, however, you have to know what you are doing.. Tips for preparing veggies The diet of all canine’s should contain about ¼ = 25% of veggies, 25% bones, 50% meat (where 5% is in the form of varied organ meat.) This doesn't mean that you have to give the same amount of vegetables every day. Let’s say it should be 25% over a longer period. One day less, one day more, it doesn't really matter. I usually feed about the same amount that I add to ground or chunky meat. With a bone based meal, I give no veggies. All the veggies should be “pre-digested” by throwing them in a food processor or Vitamix. No Nightshade Family There is a lot of anecdotal evidence that dogs do not do well on tomatoes, potatoes, peppers and eggplant - the nightshade family. Unless someone does further research, we are left to claims that these veggies and dogs do not do well together. While I haven’t seen any practical evidence of dogs getting poisoned by tomatoes or their “cousins,” the leaves of these plants are definitely toxic. Broccoli, Cabbage or Cauliflower myth or reality? Some sources claim that the cruciferous family may increase the chances of hypothyroidism - a condition represented by low thyroid gland hormone. We also call these plants goitrogenic. I must confess that I have tried to stay away from these when feeding Skai, only because I am not sure if these claims are valid or not. I would love to hear from anyone who knows of a study confirming this claim. I recommend either stay away from these veggies or feed them in small quantities. Once again, when you are unsure, go with the lowest possible risk. There are plenty of other vegetables that are definitely safe. Carrots are not ideal For some reason, dogs do not have a good ability to digest carrots especially if they are coarsely grated or in chunks. Some sources are also concerned about the levels of sugar in carrots. There is a simple way to see if your dog has the ability to digest carrots. Just feed them in chunks and see if you see carrots in your dog’s bowel movement. Avoid Onions Onions are known to be toxic to dogs and can cause red blood cell damage and anemia. Some people claim that garlic should also be avoided. However, my experience is that small amounts of garlic cause no issues. Greens and sweet veggies please Now that you know that dogs are designed for predigested veggies, it is important to know what to throw in the food processor. Let’s start with the 50/50 formula. Curious? Read on. At least 50% of your dog’s veggies should be green leaves. Leafy veggies resemble grasses and other greens that wild prey eat. Greens also have numerous health benefits. They are vitamin powerhouses, full of antioxidants and minerals. They also possess cleansing and pH balancing properties and are an excellent source of fiber. Good examples are lettuces, dandelion leaves, parsley, cilantro, basil, beet tops, carrot tops, kale, sprouted seeds etc. The remaining 50% of the vegetable blend should consist of sweet veggies that are not leafy and this group consists of zucchini, green beans, green peas, red beets, yams and other carbohydrate rich vegetables. If you are buying meat pre-made and would like to make veggies at home, here is a simple formula 50% Green leafy veggies and 50% sweet veggies mixed together Supplements to fill in the gaps No matter if you feed organic or non-organic veggies, nutrient, especially mineral depletion is highly likely without additional all natural supplements. Here is what you can do:
By Rodney Habib in Nutrition And Diet
Today’s cat and dog owners are becoming more savvy than just a few years ago. They’re starting to pay attention to food labels because they want the best for their animals. So they read the labels and they choose foods that they believe will give their pet a long and healthy life. A recent trend is the move toward grain-free foods. By tracking retail pet food sales, GfK reports that grain-free dog foods saw a 28% spike in 2013. “We see the growth of grain-free foods – and natural pet products generally – as part of a larger trend toward humanization of pets,” said Maria Lange, senior product manager of GfK’s Retail and Technology team. “Consumers are clearly comfortable splurging on pets they see as valued family members, not just everyday animals.” And that’s where it all goes wrong… Pet food companies are recognizing our desire to move away from harmful grains. And why wouldn’t we? An overwhelming percentage of dogs suffer from yeast and skin disease. “Grains and other starches have a negative impact on gut health, creating insulin resistance and inflammation” says holistic veterinarian, Dr Jodie Gruenstern. “It’s estimated that up to 80% of the immune system resides within the gastrointestinal system; building a healthy gut supports a more appropriate immune response. The importance of choosing fresh proteins and healthy fats over processed, starchy diets (such as kibble) can’t be overemphasized.” Yeast is a fungus that’s always present on pets as part of the normal flora of the body, both internally and externally. When the immune system becomes depressed, or when the dog is fed starchy foods, the yeast will proliferate in the hair follicles and throughout the body. So pet owners with itchy pets want to keep them off harmful steroids and are rightfully looking at their pet’s food as a potential cause. Pet owners now know that grains feed yeast, and with the explosion of itchy pets these days, pet food companies are making a lot of money by selling them grain-free foods. But here’s the kicker: yeast and allergy symptoms aren’t caused by grains, they’re caused by starches. Starches are complex carbohydrates that turn into sugar when metabolized in the body. Do you know what yeast loves to eat? Sugar! Starches are found not only in rice, corn and wheat, but in potatoes, peas, sweet potatoes – all of those ingredients found in grain-free goods. You see, there’s one really big problem with kibble: they can’t make it without starch. That starch is not only cheap to source, but it’s necessary to hold the kibble together. Without starch, your bag of grain-free dog food would be a bag of dust. So pet food manufacturers can call those foods whatever they want – but those grain-free foods, expensive veterinary allergy foods and super premium foods all have one common denominator: lots of starch! So how much starch is in your pet’s diet? Check out that chart at the top of the page – we made it to help you understand what could be fuelling your dog’s itchy skin. (source: Borggreve et al; Murray et al.) FYI: Rice didn’t make the chart as it has the highest levels at 810g/kg. We just figured everyone knows rice is the starchiest of all… right? |
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