Lately, I’m on a health food kick—not the “pile-your-plate-with-veggies” kind, but the “revitalize-your-gut” kind. Fermented foods like sourdough and kefir are the stars of my kitchen right now. One health book I read suggested setting a goal of introducing 200 foods (including spices) into your diet in a month to diversify your microbiome and promote good bacteria. Intriguing, huh?
Let me tell you: there’s no better way to make pizza crust than with a sourdough starter. Picture this—homemade marinara sauce (just a can of crushed tomatoes, a couple of garlic cloves, and a mix of basil, rosemary, parsley, sugar, and salt) brushed on a hand-rolled and baked crust. Top it with two handfuls of spinach tossed in olive oil, bacon, and blue cheese, and even Evelyn couldn’t get enough. It was a hit!
Of course, I’m cautious about what health advice I follow. There’s so much bias and misinformation—people promoting trends without solid backing or understanding. That’s why I focus on scientifically supported ideas and time-tested methods.
Speaking of time-tested, I’m two days shy of completing a month of intermittent fasting. I’ve gone 36 hours without eating and as little as 12. So far, I’ve “lost 12 potatoes” (code for 12 pounds), kicked my cravings for sugary foods like soda and ice cream, and started spending more time planning balanced meals. It feels good to take control.
Today, my kefir grains arrived, and I couldn’t be more excited! Years ago, I used to make a ginger water kefir—a fizzy, probiotic-rich drink made by fermenting sugar water with these special little grains. Kefir grains aren’t typical grains; they’re clusters of good bacteria and yeast that eat the sugar, creating bubbles and probiotics. You can flavor the finished drink with fruit, and it tastes like a natural soda that’s great for gut health.
All this experimenting has me thinking about how we fuel our bodies. It’s not just about what we eat but how we prepare it and the habits we build around it. Who knew sourdough and kefir could be part of a lifestyle shift?
I should go get the kefir started. On the packaging, it encouraged me to take it out and feed it sugar immediately. I’ll let you know how it goes.
Take care! Love, Jaclynn
Going On 40 