Cultured Food Life

Donna Schwenk
Cultured Food Life

Discover how to make and serve delicious probiotic foods and improve your overall health with Donna Schwenk. In her weekly radio show "Cultured Food Life" (new episodes every Tuesday), Donna will de-mystify different probiotic foods such as kefir, kombucha, and cultured vegetables, and share how to add these foods into your diet. As a teacher and writer, Donna works with thousands of people to open the door to a world of foods that can help improve an array of health problems including high blood pressure, diabetes, and IBS. In her down-to-earth and informative style, Donna will walk you through the basic preparation techniques and teach you how to make these delicious probiotic recipes at home. You can find out all about Donna on her web site https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/

  1. Episode 305: Fermented Flavors for Thanksgiving: Recipes for a Healthier Holiday

    4 DAYS AGO

    Episode 305: Fermented Flavors for Thanksgiving: Recipes for a Healthier Holiday

    In this Thanksgiving episode, join me as I share a holiday meal that’s bursting with flavor and packed with probiotics! This year, I’m sharing a few of my favorite fermented recipes that bring an unexpected twist to traditional dishes while adding a boost to your gut health. We’ll explore: Bubbly White Grape Kefir Soda for a festive fizz 🥂 Fermented Spiced Apples for a tangy, probiotic-rich side 🍎 Garlic Honey Roasted Veggies glazed with a unique fermented garlic honey 🧄🍯 Einkorn Sourdough Stuffing for a herby, gut-friendly classic 🌿🥖 Apple Cider Vinegar Brined Turkey to bring out the best in your bird 🍗🍎 High Protein Pumpkin Cheesecake with a whipped kefir topping for dessert 🍂🥧 I’ll also cover the 7 Health Benefits of adding fermented foods to your holiday spread, from supporting digestion to adding a mindful touch to your meal. Whether you’re a long-time fermenter or new to probiotics, this episode will give you everything you need to create a Thanksgiving that’s memorable, nourishing, and packed with good-for-you ingredients. Happy fermenting, and Happy Thanksgiving! Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-305-fermented-flavors-for-thanksgiving-recipes-for-a-healthier-holiday/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/fermented-flavors-for-thanksgiving-recipes-for-a-healthier-holiday/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    23 min
  2. Episode 304: The Connection Between Gut Health And The Immune System

    NOV 10

    Episode 304: The Connection Between Gut Health And The Immune System

    In this episode, we explore the fascinating connection between gut health and the immune system. Our gut is more than a digestive organ; it's a powerful hub for immune support. We'll uncover how fermented foods like kefir, kombucha, and yogurt play a crucial role in nurturing a healthy gut microbiome, which in turn strengthens our immune defenses. Join us as we dive into the science behind probiotics, gut barriers, and immune-balancing strains like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacteria. Discover simple ways to integrate these potent foods into your daily routine for a vibrant, resilient body! Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-304-the-connection-between-gut-health-and-the-immune-system/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/the-connection-between-gut-health-and-the-immune-system/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    29 min
  3. Episode 303: Probiotic Pumpkin Recipes

    NOV 3

    Episode 303: Probiotic Pumpkin Recipes

    Welcome to Cultured Kitchen Podcast, where we dive into the world of fermented foods, probiotics, and we explore the magic of pumpkins and why you should be adding more of this nutrient-packed superfood to your fall routine. From pumpkin's impressive vitamin A content to its gut-friendly soluble fiber, this humble squash is a powerhouse for your health. Tune in, grab your favorite cozy drink, and let’s get fermenting with this season’s best flavors! Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-303-probiotic-pumpkin-recipes/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/probiotic-pumpkin-recipes/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    16 min
  4. Episode 302: L. Reuteri and L. Gasseri Yogurt Calorie Guide

    OCT 27

    Episode 302: L. Reuteri and L. Gasseri Yogurt Calorie Guide

    Today, we're exploring the benefits and nutritional profiles of yogurts made with Lactobacillus reuteri and Lactobacillus gasseri. We'll walk you through everything you need to know—from understanding milk sugars in yogurt to the caloric counts of various types of yogurt. Did you know that when you ferment yogurt for 36 hours, it becomes nearly lactose-free? Join us as we navigate the fascinating world of yogurt, revealing how fermentation transforms milk into a probiotic-rich superfood that’s both healing and nourishing. Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-302-l-reuteri-and-l-gasseri-yogurt-calorie-guide/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/l-reuteri-and-l-gasseri-yogurt-calorie-guide/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    21 min
  5. Episode 301: Ulcers, IBD - Crohn’s, & Fermented Foods

    OCT 20

    Episode 301: Ulcers, IBD - Crohn’s, & Fermented Foods

    In this episode, we're diving deep into the world of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s and ulcers, and how fermented foods can be a powerful ally in healing and recovery. I'll share how cultured vegetables, kombucha, and kefir have transformed lives—including my own son's—by easing symptoms, restoring gut health, and reducing inflammation. From the powerful probiotic bacteria in kombucha to the healing compounds in cultured cabbage, you'll discover the science and stories behind these incredible foods and how they can help you reclaim your gut health and wellness naturally. Tune in for recipes, tips, and everything you need to start your own healing journey! Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-301-ulcers-ibd-crohns-fermented-foods/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/ibd-crohns-ulcers-and-fermented-foods/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    22 min
  6. Episode 300: Ginger: The Anti-Inflammatory Food

    OCT 13

    Episode 300: Ginger: The Anti-Inflammatory Food

    Ginger is powerful medicine! I have been consuming ginger often and found it to be very effective in helping with any kind of inflammation. Ginger is anti-viral and anti-inflammatory as well as being a powerful antiseptic and antihistamine. Check out all the ways to have ginger in your life. Tune in to learn more. Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-300-ginger-the-anti-inflammatory-food/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/ginger-kombucha-the-anti-inflammatory-drink/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    12 min
  7. Episode 299: Fermented Foods: Immune Fuel for Flu Season

    OCT 6

    Episode 299: Fermented Foods: Immune Fuel for Flu Season

    Fall and winter are often called “flu season,” a time of year that many people fear, not knowing how to protect themselves. But when you strengthen the good bacteria in your body, you create an army of defenders that accompany you everywhere you go. Tune in to learn more. Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-299-fermented-foods-immune-fuel-for-flu-season/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/fermented-foods-immune-fuel-for-flu-season/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    17 min
  8. Episode 298: Einkorn Bread FAQs: Everything You Need to Know!

    SEP 29

    Episode 298: Einkorn Bread FAQs: Everything You Need to Know!

    Curious about baking with ancient grains? In this episode, we dive into your most frequently asked questions about Einkorn flour—the oldest and purest form of wheat. Learn how to substitute it in recipes, its health benefits, and tips for perfecting your Einkorn bread. Whether you're new to Einkorn or a seasoned baker, this episode has something for everyone! Episode link:  https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/podcast/episode-298-einkorn-bread-faqs-everything-you-need-to-know/ Link(s) I talked about: Article: https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/einkorn-faqs/ Check out these other links: My Story Video: https://youtu.be/CbX9Nv9OtGM For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay For health tips and recipes, subscribe to our weekly emails. We'll also send you our free Getting Started Guide: http://bit.ly/2BnHpay Listen to all my podcasts: http://bit.ly/cflpodcast Become a Biotic Pro Member: http://bit.ly/2kkhwS1 Cultured Food Recipes: http://bit.ly/2UIfY2x Health and Food Topics: http://bit.ly/2SdzIOS My Amazon Shop: https://bit.ly/3KdhEge MY STARTER CULTURES Milk Kefir Grains: http://bit.ly/2rQ99PE L. Reuteri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LReuteriSuperfoodStarter L. Gasseri Superfood: https://bit.ly/LGasseriSuperfoodStarter Easy Kefir: http://bit.ly/2MQ1nPV Kefir Soda Starter: http://bit.ly/3YVErTa Kombucha Starter: http://bit.ly/2g2R9hE Vegetable Starter: http://bit.ly/2SzzVem Water Kefir Crystals:  http://bit.ly/2irmImW Sourdough Starter: http://bit.ly/2IjaaXK Other items in my store: http://bit.ly/2HTKZ27 STAY CONNECTED Instagram: http://instagram.com/culturedfoodlife/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CulturedFoodLife/ Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/donnaschwenk/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/donnaschwenk

    16 min
4.7
out of 5
244 Ratings

About

Discover how to make and serve delicious probiotic foods and improve your overall health with Donna Schwenk. In her weekly radio show "Cultured Food Life" (new episodes every Tuesday), Donna will de-mystify different probiotic foods such as kefir, kombucha, and cultured vegetables, and share how to add these foods into your diet. As a teacher and writer, Donna works with thousands of people to open the door to a world of foods that can help improve an array of health problems including high blood pressure, diabetes, and IBS. In her down-to-earth and informative style, Donna will walk you through the basic preparation techniques and teach you how to make these delicious probiotic recipes at home. You can find out all about Donna on her web site https://www.culturedfoodlife.com/

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