Kombucha is a tasty and fizzy fermented tea popular for its purported health benefits.
It has been claimed to help with arthritis and diabetes to cancer and heart health, but there isn’t much research to back this up.
It may even be harmful in rare cases due to the acidity or contamination resulting from unclean home preparations. While there may benefit the immune system, it is generally recommended that people with suppressed immune functions avoid drinking kombucha.
How Kombucha is Made
The essential element that makes kombucha what it is is the symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). This SCOBY is similar to a sourdough starter, and some people substitute one for the other.
The SCOBY is added to a strong, sugary tea and left to ferment for a few weeks. The yeast and bacteria feed on the sugars, making the drink tart, tangy, and fizzy.
Some people add whole fruit or fruit juice or herbs and spices like ginger or cinnamon to add more flavor to the drink, and some people prefer to drink it on its own.
Benefits of Kombucha
Kombucha tea, like other teas, is loaded with potent antioxidants that can help negate the destructive effects of inflammation and tissue damage. Unhealthy lifestyles and diets, intense exercise and stress, and environmental pollution synthesize free radicals – a reactive oxygen species that damage cell structures.
Antioxidants, which are found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, and other plant-based materials, bind to free radicals and prevent oxidative stress from doing harm. This effect may be why many people claim kombucha helps with their arthritis and other inflammation-related conditions.
Because of the fermentation process, it may also positively impact the health of the gut microbiome. Fermented foods, like yogurt, kimchi, and kombucha, are full of healthy bacteria that contribute to digestive health. These probiotics can prevent and alleviate bowel dysfunctions by promoting intestinal health and improving immune system functions.
Kombucha For Better Bowel Movements
Digestive problems and diarrhea can often result from a lack of healthy gut flora – too much bad bacteria and not enough good bacteria.
As the probiotics in kombucha improve gut health, many people report a significant boost in their digestive functions and easier experiences in the bathroom. The probiotic bacteria may help improve bowel movements and relieve gas, bloating, and cramping.
And because it’s a tasty drink, it can be an effective way to repel dehydration and constipation.
If you are struggling with bowel problems or other digestive issues that have lasted for weeks or months, talk with your doctor about pinpointing the cause of and treatment for these problems.
Kombucha is certainly not the only way to keep yourself hydrated and healthy, but it can be a useful and delicious addition to your diet.
