Known as the “Immortal Health Elixir” by the Chinese, kombucha is a beverage with many health benefits. The fermented drink has been around for centuries but recently became popular in the U.S. because of its reported perks.
What is Kombucha?
Although you may hear it referred to as mushroom tea, kombucha is not actually made from mushrooms; the bacteria and yeast that grow on top of kombucha result in a glob that looks like a mushroom. It is made by adding the bacteria and yeast to sugar and black or green tea and allowing the brew to ferment.
Most people say that kombucha tea has an earthy, tart taste with mild carbonation and a vinegar-like smell. Some people enjoy the taste, while others add juice to the tea to make it more palatable. If you look close, you may notice little floating bits of bacteria in the unpasteurized drink.
The fermented beverages are high in acid and contain sugar, vinegar, B vitamins, antioxidants, and other chemical compounds. One 16-ounce bottle contains about 60 calories, which is much less than most fruit juices or sodas.
Improved Digestion
Kombucha is a powerhouse of a beverage, with live enzymes and probiotics, used in various cultures for thousands of years. The main way kombucha improves digestion is by replenishing good bacteria, also known as probiotics. By supporting healthy gut bacteria, kombucha helps the body digest food more easily and provides quicker, easier energy. If digestion is sluggish, cells get overloaded and backed up with the toxic waste that should be exiting the body. Because kombucha contains DSL or D-saccharic acid-1,4-lactone with incredible antioxidant abilities, it has been shown to promote cellular detoxification and aid in elimination.
Weight Loss
Recommendations for weight loss vary greatly and are unscientific, but those who have had success with kombucha tea and weight loss recommend drinking 4 to 8 oz. 30 minutes before eating. Drinking a glass upon waking up in the morning is sometimes recommended to help stimulate the metabolism and reset your digestive system.
Immune Support
Your immune health may improve by drinking kombucha regularly. Kombucha’s ability to help the immune system is because of its enzymes and microbes and its antioxidants from the tea. Kombucha is usually made with green or black tea, which is high in flavonoids. Flavonoids help promote antioxidant production, digestion, and immune support. When you drink a beverage that is high in enzymes, it can help counteract the side effects of eating unhealthy, processed foods.
Cleansing and Detoxification
Kombucha benefits your body with both its cleansing and detoxification properties related to weight loss and cleansing. It detoxifies the digestive system while simultaneously cleansing the liver. The cultured kombucha contains glucuronic acid, an organic acid that binds with toxins in the body and safely eliminates them. Many health practitioners utilize the detox components of kombucha for conditions like arthritis, joint ailments, and gout.
Reduced Joint Pain
Many athletes swear by kombucha as part of their daily routine. They have discovered that not only does kombucha boost their energy levels during performance, it also helps their bodies recover more quickly post-workout.
The reasons for kombucha’s powerful assistance to joint health are a matter of debate among researchers everywhere. It’s commonly said that kombucha contains several substances that can directly improve joint health, including glucuronic acid, chondroitin sulphate, mucoitin sulfate, heparin, hyaluronic acid, and glucosamine. These enzymes are believed to be responsible for helping the body rebuild tissue, especially in the knees. Although this isn’t 100% proven, many people still believe it helps with joint pain.
Helps You Sleep
The enzymes in kombucha help process undigested food that lack raw enzymes. If you have an imbalance of bad bacteria in your gut, then you’re going to be more susceptible to ailments like poor sleep. People who have impacted digestion don’t process the food they eat efficiently, leading to poor sleep.
By drinking kombucha, you’ll be getting good bacteria, B vitamins, and beneficial enzymes. Drinking kombucha is a healthy habit that’s perfect for detoxification of the liver. It’s a refreshing drink that can help you feel good, clear up brain fog and provide a kick of extra energy.
FAQs
Kombucha is an ancient fermented tea that may have many health benefits, such as improving digestion, boosting the immune system, lowering cholesterol levels, and supporting cardiovascular health.
Is it good to drink kombucha every day? ›
The Centers for Disease Control recommends that four ounces of kombucha can be safely consumed one to three times a day. Overconsumption can lead to headache, nausea, gastrointestinal distress, or ketoacidosis.
Does kombucha cleanse your body? ›
It detoxifies the digestive system while simultaneously cleansing the liver. The cultured kombucha contains glucuronic acid, an organic acid that binds with toxins in the body and safely eliminates them.
Why does kombucha make you feel good? ›
Kombucha as an adaptogen to combat stress
Kombucha can help depression because it's an adaptogen – a plant-based derivative that balances the body. Adaptogens such as fermented tea are great sources of antioxidants – great for tackling free radicals that cause oxidative stress.
Does kombucha shrink belly fat? ›
Does kombucha help you lose belly fat? While kombucha can be a part of a healthy weight-loss journey, there's no magic solution for losing belly fat. Kombucha may support overall weight management by supporting digestion and gut health, but it's not a stand-alone solution for targeting belly fat.
Can kombucha heal your gut? ›
Kombucha and other fermented foods are full of antioxidants and probiotics, or live bacteria, that boost the health of intestinal cells, improve immune function and aid in food digestion. “They make the body more efficient,” said Braxton.
Is kombucha anti-inflammatory? ›
Kombucha intake also promoted the growth of butyrate-producing bacteria in the gut that exert anti-inflammatory effects [24].
Who should not drink kombucha? ›
People who are pregnant or breastfeeding or who have weakened immune systems should avoid kombucha tea. Others may drink the tea if they like the taste, but only if it comes from a trusted source. Katherine Zeratsky, R.D., L.D.
Is kombucha good for your liver? ›
Enzymes and acids in kombucha can assist your liver as it gets rid of undesired compounds in your body, says Smith. Some research even suggests kombucha may have potential as a therapeutic dietary supplement to combat fatty liver disease.
What does kombucha do to your bowels? ›
Kombucha may help with constipation by providing hydration and probiotics that promote gut health. Both may help a person pass stool more easily and regularly. A person may wish to consider talking with a doctor before adding kombucha to their diet, particularly if they want to try it for constipation relief.
Here, she shares more on the pros and cons of drinking kombucha.
- Kombucha contains antioxidants. ...
- Kombucha may contain natural probiotics. ...
- Drinking kombucha can provide the benefits of tea. ...
- Kombucha contains some alcohol. ...
- Watch out for added sugar. ...
- Risks of drinking kombucha.
Since many kombuchas are made with true teas, drinking kombucha can provide the same benefits as drinking a classic cup, Manaker says. ICYMI, the health benefits of tea include lower risk for heart disease and certain cancers; better task performance, creativity and focus; improved sleep; and more.
Why do I feel buzzed after kombucha? ›
Fermentation experts say individuals who report feeling drunk after a serving of kombucha are probably suffering from a histamine intolerance. These people often react this way to fermented foods and beverages because they lack an enzyme called DAO, which helps the body process histamine.
What is the best time to drink kombucha? ›
Drinking kombucha on an empty stomach can also enhance its antioxidant effects. This is because the fermentation process creates natural antioxidants, and drinking kombucha on an empty stomach allows these antioxidants to be more easily absorbed by the body.
Why do I feel dizzy after drinking kombucha? ›
Excessive amounts of kombucha may lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and low blood sugar, which can cause you to feel weak, lightheaded, or dizzy. See a doctor right away if you faint or experience cardiac symptoms like a rapid heartbeat.
Are there any negative effects of drinking kombucha? ›
For example, some research suggests kombucha tea may support a healthy immune system and prevent constipation. But there are few valid medical studies of kombucha tea's role in human health. And there are risks to think about. Kombucha tea has caused stomach upset, infections and allergic reactions in some people.
What does kombucha do for your skin? ›
In addition to its antioxidant and probiotic properties, kombucha also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to calm and soothe irritated skin. Its high levels of organic acids also make it an effective natural exfoliant, helping to slough away dead skin cells and reveal a brighter, more even complexion.
How much alcohol is in kombucha? ›
Kombucha's alcohol content is minimal, with most commercially available brews containing around 0.5% ABV. This technically makes it non-alcoholic, as a drink is only classified as alcoholic if it contains more than 1.2% ABV.
When should you drink kombucha? ›
Drinking kombucha on an empty stomach is the best way to maximize the potency of the living cultures found within. With your stomach clear of any food, the living cultures can pass through your stomach quicker and reach your large intestines to clear harmful bacteria and improve function.
Known as the “Immortal Health Elixir” by the Chinese, kombucha is a beverage with many health benefits. The fermented drink has been around for centuries but recently became popular in the U.S. because of its reported perks.
Kombucha benefits your body with both its cleansing and detoxification properties related to weight loss and cleansing. It detoxifies the digestive system while simultaneously cleansing the liver. The cultured kombucha contains glucuronic acid, an organic acid that binds with toxins in the body and safely eliminates them. Many health practitioners utilize the detox components of kombucha for conditions like arthritis, joint ailments, and gout.