If you’ve ever passed kefir in the grocery store and wondered, “Is that stuff actually good for you?”—you’re not alone. In this episode, I talk with Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Kefir, who shares how this tangy, probiotic-rich drink became a lifeline for her immigrant family—and a powerful tool for mental and physical wellness.

Julie dives into the science behind fermented foods, the gut-brain connection, and why kefir might be one of the most underrated health foods on your shelf. We also talk mom-to-mom about raising adventurous eaters, the role of dairy in women’s health, and the importance of modeling self-care for our kids.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• Why kefir supports gut health, immunity, and even mental health
• How fermented dairy reduces inflammation, and why that matters
• What women should know before cutting dairy from their diet
• How to introduce kids to kefir and other healthy foods
• Why kefir is 99% lactose-free (yes, even for sensitive stomachs)
• How food, family, and culture shape our health journeys
• Practical self-care tips for busy parents

Whether you're curious about the benefits of kefir or looking for real-life tips on raising healthy kids, this conversation will leave you inspired.

Resources We Mention for a Healthy Lifestyle

• Sign up for #LifeSkillsNow Season 4
• Information on Dr. Elie Metchnikoff's studies on fermented milk and kefir from 1904
• Read more about the effects of antibacterial everything
• Here's a study on fermented milk and colon cancer
• A kid's perspective on going dairy-free
• Find Lifeway online
• Follow Julie on social media: Instagram, LinkedIn
• Check out Julie's cookbook: The Kefir Cookbook: Amazon, Bookshop, eBook

Join us for free #LifeSkillsNow camp this summer! Register at https://www.kidscookrealfood.com/lifeskills4!

• Kitchen Stewardship
• Kids Cook Real Food
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• Find the Healthy Parenting Handbook at kidscookrealfood.com/podcast

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