Water Kefir

Water kefir is a refreshing drink that is loaded with health benefits.
Including fermented foods to our diet is another way to
help our son with his digestive issues,
which is common with kids on the spectrum.
He has many food sensitivities which somewhat limit his diet.
The good yeast and bacteria in this concoction
allow the digestive system to work at peak performance.
And when it tastes this good, it's so much easier than 
trying to get him to take supplements.
(Although these are called kefir grains,
there are no grains in them,
so they are safe for those on a grain-free or gluten-free diet.)

We're both enjoying this sweet treat.
I make a batch almost every day and we both drink 1-2 glasses a day.

It couldn't be easier to make.
A bit of distilled water is warmed on the stovetop.
Meanwhile, 1/4 cup of organic sugar is added to a quart-sized mason jar.
When the water is hot, it gets added to the jar.
The water is swirled or stirred to dissolve the sugar
(this takes only about 10 seconds).

Then the jar is filled to the top with room temperature or cold water,
mostly to bring the temperature down.
(Kefir grains won't survive in very hot water.)
After the water in the jar is cool to the touch,
the kefir grains are added.
A paper towel (or coffee filter) is placed on top of the jar 
and secured with a rubber band.
It stays on the kitchen counter from 24-48 hours.
I indicate the date and time on the jar,
so I remember when it is ready.

Pop it in the fridge and you're on your way to enjoying this wonderful drink!
Our son likes to add a bit of grape juice or lemonade to it,
but I enjoy it straight up or with a bit of lime juice.
Cheers!

Here's a great tutorial on making water kefir,
as well as a resource for the kefir grains. 
The folks at Cultures for Health have been so helpful
for this newbie 
and answered all of my questions via the chat feature on their website. 
(I'm not compensated for sharing their site,
I just like to pass along the good stuff.)