The Ultimate Guide to Making 24-Hour Fermented A2 Yogurt for Gut Health
Homemade yogurt is a nutrient-dense powerhouse that’s perfect for families looking to improve digestion, support gut health, and nourish growing bodies. By using A2 raw milk and fermenting for 24 hours, you’ll create a yogurt that’s GAPS-friendly, rich in probiotics, and gentle on sensitive stomachs. This guide will explain why raw A2 milk is superior, how the fermentation process enhances its benefits, and why it’s a powerful tool for supporting gut health, especially in babies.
Why A2 Yogurt is Special
Not all milk proteins are created equal, and A2 milk stands out as the better option for gut health.
The A1 vs. A2 Difference
Regular Milk: Most conventional dairy contains a mix of A1 and A2 beta-casein proteins, with A1 being harder to digest. It’s linked to gut discomfort, inflammation, and intolerance in sensitive individuals.
A2 Milk: Comes from breeds like Jersey and Guernsey cows. A2 beta-casein is easier to digest and gentler on the gut, making it a great choice for children with sensitivities or digestive issues.
Why A2 Yogurt is Better
Gentler on Digestion: A2 protein minimizes gut inflammation and discomfort, unlike A1, which can trigger symptoms like gas and bloating.
Rich in Probiotics: When fermented for 24 hours, A2 yogurt contains exponentially higher levels of beneficial bacteria.
Perfect for Children with Gut Issues: A2 yogurt, especially when fermented, can help repair the gut lining and reduce symptoms of food intolerances, eczema, and even behavioral issues linked to the gut-brain axis.
The Benefits of Raw Milk in Yogurt
What Is Raw Milk?
Raw milk is milk that hasn’t been pasteurized or homogenized. It comes straight from the cow, retaining all its natural enzymes, vitamins, and beneficial bacteria. When sourced from healthy, grass-fed cows, raw milk is a nutritional powerhouse.
Why Raw Milk is Better
Preserved Nutrients: Raw milk is rich in fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K), enzymes, and minerals like calcium and magnesium that are often diminished during pasteurization.
Digestive Enzymes: Naturally occurring enzymes like lactase help break down lactose, making raw milk easier to digest for many people.
Supports Immune Health: Beneficial bacteria in raw milk contribute to a healthy microbiome, supporting overall immunity.
Bioavailable Calcium: The natural structure of raw milk makes calcium and other minerals more absorbable.
How 24-Hour Fermentation Enhances Raw Milk Yogurt
When raw milk is fermented for 24 hours, its natural properties are amplified:
Lactose Breakdown: Beneficial bacteria consume almost all the lactose, making the yogurt suitable for those who are lactose intolerant or have sensitive digestion.
Probiotic Boost: The long fermentation process exponentially increases the number of probiotics, supporting a robust gut microbiome.
Gut Healing: The combination of raw milk and fermentation creates a yogurt rich in short-chain fatty acids (like butyrate), which help repair the gut lining.
Safety Assurance: Fermenting raw milk reduces harmful bacteria while retaining its enzymes and nutrients.
Safety Tips for Using Raw Milk
Source Carefully: Only use raw milk from trusted farms that follow strict hygiene standards. Check RealMilk.com for local sources.
Sterilize Equipment: Always sterilize your yogurt-making equipment to minimize contamination.
Follow Proper Fermentation: Ferment for 24 hours to ensure safety and maximize probiotic content.
The Gut-Health Benefits of Yogurt for Babies
Why Gut Health Matters for Babies
A baby’s gut plays a critical role in their overall health, affecting digestion, immunity, and even brain development. During their first 1,000 days, a baby’s microbiome is rapidly developing, making this the perfect time to introduce gut-supportive foods.
How 24-Hour Yogurt Helps
Encourages Microbial Diversity: The probiotics in 24-hour yogurt populate the gut with beneficial bacteria, which support digestion and protect against pathogens.
Strengthens the Gut Barrier: Probiotic-rich yogurt helps maintain the integrity of the gut lining, preventing toxins from entering the bloodstream.
Supports Immune Function: A healthy gut is home to 70-80% of the immune system, making yogurt an excellent tool for reducing inflammation and promoting resilience to illness.
Gentle on Digestion: The reduced lactose content and probiotics make yogurt ideal for babies with sensitive tummies or food intolerances.
Raw milk from A2-producing cows, like Jerseys or Guernseys, offers unique advantages for young children:
Easier Digestion: The A2 beta-casein protein is gentler on the stomach compared to A1, reducing discomfort like gas or bloating.
Supports Growth: Raw milk is rich in bioavailable calcium, which is essential for developing strong bones and teeth.
Natural Immunity Boost: Enzymes and beneficial bacteria in raw milk support a healthy immune system.
Brain Development: High levels of omega-3 fatty acids and fat-soluble vitamins promote brain health.
When to Introduce Yogurt (see recipes below)
6-8 Months: Introduce yogurt as a puree mixed with fruits or veggies.
8-12 Months: Serve plain yogurt as a standalone snack or alongside finger foods.
12+ Months: Add yogurt to smoothies, dips, or as a topping for roasted vegetables.
How to Make 24-Hour Fermented A2 Yogurt
What You’ll Need
Equipment:
Luvele Yogurt Maker (or another yogurt maker with temperature control).
Ceramic jars (included with the Luvele Yogurt Maker) or sterilized glass jars.
Whisk.
Ingredients:
6 cups A2 raw milk (find local raw milk at RealMilk.com).
1.5 packets of Yogourmet Yogurt Starter or 6 tablespoons of yogurt from a previous batch.
Instructions
Sterilize Equipment:
Boil jars, whisk, and any utensils to ensure they’re free of harmful bacteria.
Prepare the Milk:
Pour raw A2 milk into a large sterilized bowl.
Mix the Starter:
Add 1.5 packets of Yogourmet Yogurt Starter (or your starter yogurt) to the milk. Whisk thoroughly to combine.
Pour into Jars:
Divide the mixture evenly into the ceramic jars or glass containers.
Ferment:
Place the jars in the yogurt maker and set the temperature to 100°F. Ferment for 24 hours.
Cool and Store:
Once the yogurt is ready, allow it to cool at room temperature and set in the fridge for 6 hours.
Alternative Milks for Yogurt
While A2 raw milk is ideal, other options include:
Goat’s Milk: Naturally contains A2 protein; great for sensitive tummies.
Sheep’s Milk: Creamier and richer, with more protein and fat.
Coconut Milk: Dairy-free alternative, perfect for those with allergies (use gelatin to thicken).
Why Expeller-Pressed Fats Matter in Yogurt
If you’re blending your yogurt with additional fats (e.g., coconut cream or ghee), opt for high-quality, expeller-pressed oils. These are processed without chemicals, preserving their nutrients and making them safer for gut health.
Store-Bought Options for Busy Moms
If making yogurt isn’t an option, look for:
Alexandre Family Farm A2/A2 Yogurt (this is my favorite - feel free to use their milk to make yogurt)
Grass-fed, organic, and non-homogenized.
Seven Stars Organic Yogurt
Biodynamic and full-fat.
Maple Hill Creamery
Organic, grass-fed, and rich in flavor.
While 24-hour fermented yogurt is a gut-healing powerhouse, its tangy flavor can be a bit intense for little ones. Adding naturally sweet or savory ingredients can transform it into a kid-approved meal or snack while preserving all its health benefits. Here are some recipes tailored for infants, toddlers, and children.
Store-Bought Yogurt vs. Homemade Yogurt: Which is Better?
When deciding between store-bought and homemade yogurt, it’s essential to understand the differences in quality, nutrition, and control. While both options can be part of a healthy diet, homemade yogurt often offers superior benefits, especially for those following gut-healing diets or looking to optimize nutrition.
Store-Bought Yogurt: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Convenience: Quick and easy to purchase, requiring no preparation.
Variety: A wide range of flavors, textures, and types (Greek, plant-based etc.).
Availability: Readily available at most grocery stores.
Cons:
Added Sugars: Many store-bought yogurts contain added sugars, artificial flavors, and preservatives.
Reduced Probiotic Content: Commercial yogurts are often heat-treated (pasteurized) after fermentation, reducing the live probiotic content.
Limited Control: You can’t always verify the quality of ingredients, such as milk source or live culture strains.
Thickeners and Fillers: Many include stabilizers like gums or starches, which can irritate sensitive guts.
Homemade Yogurt: Pros and Cons
Pros:
Control Over Ingredients: Choose high-quality milk (like A2 raw milk) and avoid unwanted additives.
Higher Probiotic Count: Freshly fermented homemade yogurt is rich in live cultures, especially when fermented for 24 hours.
Customizable: Adjust thickness, tartness, and flavors to suit your family’s preferences.
Cost-Effective: Over time, making yogurt at home can save money, especially when using bulk ingredients.
Gut-Friendly: Homemade 24-hour yogurt eliminates most lactose and maximizes probiotic content, making it ideal for those with sensitive digestion.
Cons:
Time-Consuming: Requires preparation, fermentation, and clean-up.
Requires Equipment: A yogurt maker or similar device is helpful for maintaining a consistent fermentation temperature.
Which Is Better for Gut Health?
Store-Bought Yogurt:
Best for convenience, but ensure you choose high-quality brands. Look for unsweetened, organic, grass-fed, and live-culture yogurts like Alexandre Family Farm A2/A2 Yogurt or Seven Stars Farm Yogurt.
Homemade Yogurt:
Ideal for families prioritizing gut health, especially those following GAPS, Weston A. Price, or ancestral diets. Homemade yogurt offers superior probiotic benefits, is easier to digest, and allows for greater flexibility in ingredients and fermentation time.
If time and resources allow, making yogurt at home provides unparalleled benefits for gut health and overall nutrition. However, high-quality store-bought options can be a good alternative for busy families—just be sure to choose clean, simple, and probiotic-rich brands. Whether homemade or store-bought, incorporating yogurt into your diet supports digestion, immunity, and a thriving microbiome.
Incorporating Yogurt into Meals
For Babies and Toddlers
Puree Add-In: Mix with mashed fruits like bananas or steamed apples.
Savory Meal Addition: Swirl into cooled soups or stews for extra creaminess.
For Kids
Breakfast Bowl: Serve with berries, a drizzle of honey, and nuts.
Smoothies: Blend with frozen fruits and spinach for a nutrient-packed drink.
For Adults
Topping: Use as a dollop on curries, roasted vegetables, or baked potatoes.
Dessert: Sweeten with maple syrup and cinnamon for a guilt-free treat.
Ideas For Infants (6–12 Months)
When introducing yogurt to infants, focus on purees and simple, naturally sweet options.
1. Banana Yogurt Puree
Ingredients:
2 tbsp 24-hour fermented yogurt
1/4 ripe banana, mashed
Instructions:
Mash the banana until smooth.
Stir in the yogurt until well combined.
Serve immediately.
Benefits:
Bananas add natural sweetness and potassium.
Yogurt provides probiotics to support digestion and immunity.
2. Sweet Potato Yogurt Mash
Ingredients:
2 tbsp 24-hour fermented yogurt
2 tbsp steamed and mashed sweet potato
Pinch of cinnamon (optional)
Instructions:
Combine the mashed sweet potato and yogurt in a bowl.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon if desired.
Serve warm or chilled.
Benefits:
Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, supporting vision and immune health.
Cinnamon adds a gentle flavor and anti-inflammatory properties.
Ideas For Toddlers (12–24 Months)
Toddlers enjoy more variety and texture. Incorporate yogurt into finger foods and dips.
3. Yogurt Berry Dip
Ingredients:
1/4 cup 24-hour fermented yogurt
1 tbsp mashed blueberries or strawberries (fresh or thawed frozen)
Instructions:
Mash the berries until smooth.
Mix the berries into the yogurt.
Use as a dip for soft fruits like banana slices, steamed apple wedges, or cucumber sticks.
Benefits:
Berries add antioxidants and natural sweetness.
This snack encourages self-feeding and exploration of textures.
4. Savory Veggie Yogurt Spread
Ingredients:
1/4 cup 24-hour fermented yogurt
2 tbsp finely grated carrot or zucchini (steamed for softness)
Pinch of garlic powder or dill
Instructions:
Mix the yogurt with the grated veggies.
Season lightly with garlic powder or dill.
Spread on soft bread or serve as a dip for veggie sticks.
Benefits:
Veggies add fiber and vitamins.
The savory twist introduces toddlers to diverse flavors.
Ideas For Children (2+ Years)
For older kids, yogurt can be transformed into smoothies, frozen treats, and desserts.
5. Creamy Berry Smoothie
Ingredients:
1/2 cup 24-hour fermented yogurt
1/2 cup frozen berries
1/4 cup water or coconut milk
1 tsp honey (optional, for kids over 1 year)
Instructions:
Blend all ingredients until smooth.
Adjust sweetness with honey if needed.
Serve in a fun cup with a straw.
Benefits:
A nutrient-packed snack with probiotics, antioxidants, and hydration.
Great for breakfast or an afternoon energy boost.
6. Frozen Yogurt Pops
Ingredients:
1 cup 24-hour fermented yogurt
1/2 cup pureed mango or peach
1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
Mix the yogurt, fruit puree, and vanilla extract.
Pour into popsicle molds and freeze for at least 4 hours.
Serve as a cooling, healthy treat.
Benefits:
A perfect summer snack that combines probiotics and fruit.
Freezing mellows the tartness, making it more palatable for picky eaters.
7. Cinnamon Apple Yogurt Bowl
Ingredients:
1/2 cup 24-hour fermented yogurt
1/4 cup diced, steamed apples
Sprinkle of cinnamon
Drizzle of maple syrup (optional, for kids over 1 year)
Instructions:
Layer the yogurt in a small bowl.
Top with diced apples, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and a drizzle of maple syrup if desired.
Serve immediately.
Benefits:
Apples and cinnamon offer sweetness and antioxidants.
Yogurt provides a creamy, probiotic-rich base for a balanced snack.
Tips for Serving Yogurt to Picky Eaters
Start Small: Begin with a small amount of yogurt mixed with their favorite fruit or puree.
Add Sweetness Naturally: Use ripe bananas, applesauce, or honey (for kids over 1 year).
Play with Presentation: Serve in fun bowls or use cookie cutters for shapes when incorporating yogurt into meals.
Involve Them: Let kids choose their toppings or mix the ingredients themselves.
These recipes are simple, nutritious, and a great way to introduce tart 24-hour fermented yogurt to your family’s diet in a way everyone can enjoy!
Homemade 24-hour fermented A2 yogurt is a true superfood for the whole family. From reducing gut inflammation to providing essential nutrients, it’s a cornerstone of GAPS, WAPF, and ancestral diets.
Ready to transform your family’s health? Try making your own yogurt today and discover the difference real, fermented foods can make! 😊