What is Kombucha?
This is a fermented lightly effervescent, sweetened black or green tea drink commonly used for it's health benefits. Simply put, kombucha is made by adding bacteria (SCOBY) and yeast and sugar to a mixture of tea.
This drink has become increasingly popular as a potential source of probiotics, which are live organisms that help balance the intestinal flora. By drinking it's easy to digest, and allows you to replenish your gut health with good bacteria and restore your digestive health. The research is still being done on this drink and all the health benefits.
Here are some potential health benefits on this drink:
Weight loss: Kombucha is not the miracle weight loss drink, but it may be a secret to increasing your metabolism. This would be for the ones made with Green Tea, as it has EGCG (Epigallocatechin-3-gallate) which is a beneficial plant compound called polyphenol.
Aid in Constipation: As a potential source of probiotics, it can have the ability to balance good bacteria in the guy and relieve some gastrointestinal issues. When bad bacteria in the gut causes inflammation, it can contribute to IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), and gut dysbiosis, (unbalanced gut bacteria).
Strengthen the Immune System: The gut-healthy benefits of Kombucha may also provide an immune system boost. It's important to note that the digestive system and the immune system are closely intertwined; the lining of the intestines creates antibodies that help protect the body. A huge portion of the immune system is found in the gut (70%). Optimal gut health is the key to a strong immune system!
Plays a Role in Lowering Blood Sugar: Drinking Kombucha may benefit those who are insulin resistant or have diabetes. The tea can inhibit a-amylase, a protein in the pancreas that's responsible for higher after meal glucose levels.
Remember that Kombucha does contain sugar, and store brands have a much higher ratio than homemade. In the homemade option, most of the sugar is fermented, but some will remain in the final product. The store brand options, could include fruit juices, or other agents to increase their shelf life. Make sure you read the label and serving size.
In Good Health, Wellness, and Love
-Donna Rivard / RHN
Comments