How L. Reuteri Yogurt Changed My Post-COVID Gut and My Motherhood

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This article may contain links to recommended products. If you purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use and trust.

Looking back, I can pinpoint exactly when my body started to feel “off.” It was right after I recovered from COVID-19 in 2020. I was a new mom, still in the whirlwind of sleepless nights and early parenthood, and suddenly I found myself dealing with a wave of strange new symptoms. Bloating. Constipation that seemed never-ending. A heavy fatigue that clung to me, no matter how much I tried to rest.

Whenever I tried to talk about these changes with my doctor, my concerns were brushed aside. “You’re just exhausted from having a baby,” they’d say. “This is normal for new moms.” But I couldn’t shake the feeling that something deeper was happening. The timing—right after my illness—just seemed too much to ignore.

For a long time, I tried to power through, believing that maybe everyone felt this way after having a baby. But everything shifted when I discovered L. reuteri yogurt. Within weeks of adding it to my daily routine, my digestion calmed, my mood lifted, and—most surprisingly—I found myself more patient and affectionate with my kids than I’d been in months.

If you’re struggling with post-illness digestive problems or mood swings that no one seems to take seriously, you’re not alone. This is my honest story about how L. reuteri yogurt became a turning point in my health and my motherhood.

My Health Journey After COVID—And How It Was Dismissed

After recovering from COVID-19, I noticed things just weren’t right. I was bloated after almost every meal, felt a constant heaviness in my gut, and struggled with stubborn constipation. On top of that, I was newly postpartum with a baby who rarely slept more than two hours at a stretch. Of course, my doctor and everyone around me said these symptoms were “normal for new moms” and i just needed more sleep, water and fiber.

But deep down, I knew this was more than just sleep deprivation or my water consumption. My body felt different—off in a way I couldn’t explain. I started reading about how COVID can impact the gut, trigger inflammation, and disrupt the microbiome. But without a formal SIBO diagnosis and with doctors brushing off my concerns, I felt isolated and frustrated but in a way i used to it.

If you’re a mom reading this and wondering if your symptoms are being overlooked, trust your instincts. You know your body best.

Discovering L. Reuteri Yogurt—A Simple Idea That Sparked Hope

When you’ve tried every “eat more fiber” tip, probiotic supplement, and gentle yoga stretch, you get desperate for real relief. I stumbled across L. reuteri yogurt in a mom’s health group. The testimonials were intriguing: “It changed my mood,” “I finally had regular digestion,” “I felt like myself again.”

I became curious and started diving into the science behind L. reuteri. After listening to several podcasts with Dr. William Davis—the cardiologist and author who popularized homemade L. reuteri yogurt—I became genuinely intrigued. Dr. Davis explained how L. reuteri is a unique probiotic strain that not only survives the digestive tract but also produces beneficial compounds that support the gut lining, reduce inflammation, and even help regulate mood by increasing serotonin. The more I listened and read, the more I learned that research points to L. reuteri’s potential for improving everything from digestive health to emotional wellbeing. That was enough to convince me to give it a try myself.

With a mixture of hope and skepticism, I decided to try making my own L. reuteri yogurt at home. It was surprisingly easy (more on that later!), and I committed to eating a small bowl every day.

My First Few Weeks—Small Changes, Big Results

I didn’t expect much at first. But within the first two weeks, I noticed real changes:

• My digestion regulated itself. Years of constipation and daily bloating simply faded away. I woke up feeling lighter, with a calm, comfortable gut.
• My mood lifted. There was a subtle, but steady, improvement in my patience and positivity—especially with my kids. I found myself wanting to hug and snuggle them more.
• My energy returned. I wasn’t bouncing off the walls, but I had more stamina to get through my days without that heavy, post-COVID fog.

It wasn’t a “magic cure,” but for the first time since having my baby and getting sick, I felt hopeful and in control of my own health.

The Science Behind L. Reuteri—Why It Works

So, what’s actually happening in your body when you start eating L. reuteri yogurt? Here’s what research (and my experience) shows:

• Gut health: L. reuteri produces compounds that balance gut bacteria, reduce inflammation, and may help fight off “bad” microbes—a big plus after illness or antibiotics.
• Mood & patience: Some studies suggest this probiotic boosts oxytocin and serotonin—hormones linked to calmness, connection, and even motherly affection.
• Digestive relief: L. reuteri may help regulate bowel movements, reduce bloating, and support nutrient absorption.

For postpartum moms and anyone recovering from gut-disrupting illness, these effects can be life-changing.

How to Make L. Reuteri Yogurt at Home—A Beginner’s Guide

Curious to try it yourself? Making L. reuteri yogurt is simple, and you don’t need fancy equipment.

What You’ll Need

• Milk: Whole cow’s milk is ideal for best texture, but you can use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
• L. reuteri starter: You can use a specific L. reuteri yogurt starter (like BioGaia Gastrus tablets, which contain L. reuteri DSM 17938 and ATCC PTA 6475) or a reputable probiotic supplement with L. reuteri. I used 10 BioGia Gastrus tablets for my first batch and then used two spoons of made yogurth for future. I got it from iherb
  Tip: you can use frozen yogurt for starting new batch.
• Prebiotic fiber (optional but highly recommended): Inulin or another prebiotic powder feeds the bacteria, resulting in a thicker, more potent yogurt. You can get it in iherb also.
• Yogurt maker, sous-vide, or an oven with the light on: Anything that can maintain a steady temperature (100–110°F/37–43°C) for 30-36 hours.
• Glass or ceramic jar with a loose-fitting lid.
• Cooking thermometer.

Step 1: Prepare Your Milk Base

1. Pour your milk into a saucepan. For a standard batch, use 1 quart (about 1 liter).
2. Gently heat the milk to 180°F (82°C), then let it cool to 100–110°F (37–43°C). Heating helps kill unwanted bacteria and makes a creamier yogurt.
   • Tip: If using coconut milk, shake the can well and heat gently, but don’t boil.

Step 2: Add Your L. reuteri and Prebiotic Fiber

1. Once milk is at 100–110°F (37–43°C), pour it into your clean glass jar or mixing bowl.
2. Add your L. reuteri starter:
   • If using BioGaia tablets, crush 10 tablets with a clean spoon and stir into the milk.
   • If using a probiotic capsule, open and sprinkle 1–2 capsules into the milk.
3. Add 1 tablespoon prebiotic fiber (like inulin), if using. This step is optional, but it makes the yogurt thicker and increases probiotic count.
4. Add a teaspoon of sugar or honey (optional, and not needed if using cow’s milk).
5. Mix gently but thoroughly with a clean whisk or spoon.

Step 3: Incubate Your Yogurt

1. Pour the mixture into your glass/ceramic jar.
2. Cover with a loose-fitting lid or plastic wrap—do not seal tightly as gases can build up.
3. Incubate at 100–104°F (38–40°C) for 12–36 hours.
   • Options:
     • Yogurt maker or sous-vide: Set to 100°F (38°C).
     • Oven with light on: Place the jar inside and close the door; check temperature with a thermometer.
     • Insulated cooler: Fill with warm water at the right temperature, place jar inside, and close the lid.
4. Longer fermentation (24–36 hours) results in more tangy, thicker yogurt and a higher probiotic count.

Step 4: Chill and Store

1. After fermentation, check texture and smell. It should look creamy, with a pleasant tart aroma.
2. Refrigerate for at least 2–3 hours before eating for best consistency.
3. Stir gently before serving (some whey separation is normal).
4. Save a few spoonfuls as a starter for your next batch.

Step 5: Enjoy!

• Eat plain, or top with berries, a drizzle of honey, or your favorite seeds.
• Consume about 1/2 cup daily for gut and mood benefits.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If your yogurt is too runny, increase the prebiotic fiber or ferment longer.
• If it smells “off” or looks moldy, discard and try again (this is rare if you use clean utensils and a stable temperature).
• A slightly grainy texture is normal for coconut milk yogurt.

Remember:
Homemade L. reuteri yogurt is much richer in live bacteria than commercial yogurt. Always start with small amounts if you’re new to probiotics.

Pro tip: Use sterilized jars and utensils to avoid unwanted bacteria.

How to know if it’s working for you:
Track your digestion, mood, and energy. Give it at least 2–3 weeks.

Warning:
Always consult your doctor if you have underlying health issues, are pregnant, or want to try it with your kids.

Frequently Asked Questions About L. Reuteri Yogurt

Can L. reuteri yogurt help with SIBO, IBS, or postpartum fatigue?
It may help balance gut flora and support digestion, but it’s not a cure for SIBO or medical fatigue. Talk to a doctor for a tailored approach.

Are there any side effects?
Most people tolerate it well, but some may experience mild gas or bloating as their gut adjusts. Start slow.

Can I give it to my kids?
L. reuteri is generally considered safe, but always ask your pediatrician first, especially for infants or young children.

What if I’m dairy-free?
Use coconut milk as your base! It works just as well for fermenting.

How long until I see results?
Many people notice digestive changes within 1–2 weeks, but mood benefits can take a bit longer.

Why I Recommend L. Reuteri Yogurt for Moms (and Everyone!)

Looking back, L. reuteri yogurt was a turning point in my recovery after COVID and my postpartum journey. It didn’t just help my gut—it helped me feel like a more present, positive mom.
If you’re struggling with dismissed symptoms or want to try a gentle, research-backed way to support your mood and digestion, I encourage you to give L. reuteri yogurt a try. Trust your body. Sometimes, the simplest changes can make the biggest difference.

Where to Learn More

• Homemade L. Reuteri Yogurt Recipe – Dr. Davis

Affiliate disclosure:
This article may contain links to recommended products. If you purchase through these links, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I genuinely use and trust.

Looking back, L. reuteri yogurt was a true turning point in my recovery—not just after COVID, but in my whole postpartum journey. It didn’t just help my gut; it helped me feel like myself again, more present and more positive as a mom. What truly surprised me was how this shift rippled out to the rest of my family. As I became more regulated and emotionally available, I noticed my kids began to settle, too. Their moods and behaviors became calmer, our home felt a bit more harmonious, and the daily struggles seemed a little easier.

It was like a compounding effect: when I started feeling just a bit more balanced, it created space for everyone to thrive. With this new energy, I found I was finally able to implement other positive changes. I began psychotherapy, something I’d been wanting to do but simply didn’t have the strength for before. I genuinely believe that changing my diet and improving my microbiome with L. reuteri yogurt was the missing piece that gave me just enough energy and clarity to take those bigger steps toward healing and growth.

If you’re feeling stuck, exhausted, or disconnected—especially as a mom—I encourage you to nurture your gut and honor even the smallest improvements. Sometimes, it’s these gentle, foundational changes that open the door to greater transformation for your whole family.

Ready to share your own story or have questions about L. reuteri yogurt? Let me know in the comments!