Kombucha, a fermented drink made by adding bacteria and yeast to a mixture of black or green tea and sugar, has been around for nearly 2,000 years. The end result is a slightly tart, mildly sweet and fizzy drink that’s probiotic-rich, meaning it contains live bacteria and yeasts that benefit your digestive system. First brewed in China, it went on to rise in popularity in Japan and Russia, and then in Europe in the early 20th century. Sales in the United States have also been soaring rapidly due to its reputation as a health and energy drink. But what are the actual benefits of drinking kombucha? We share how adding a kombucha drink into your diet can improve your overall health.
Improved gut health and immune system
Similar to foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, kombucha is fermented, meaning that it undergoes a natural process where healthy bacteria convert ingredients in the tea into acids and gases. This makes the tea fizzy, and creates a beneficial bacteria called probiotics. Probiotics may improve gut health by helping the body maintain a healthy community of microorganisms. It is also worth mentioning that a huge portion of the immune system is found in the gut, therefore optimal gut health is the key to a strong immunity and a healthier you.
Contains antioxidants
Kombucha contains powerful antioxidants that help to safeguard from oxidative damage caused by free radicals. Though free radicals are normal by-products caused by bodily processes, minimising their impact can slow down the process of ageing and diseases. A kombucha drink, especially when made with green tea, may also have antioxidant effects on your liver, providing cleansing and detoxifying properties.
Reduced risk of heart disease
Kombucha may also be beneficial for your heart and cholesterol levels. Having just a half-cup of kombucha tea every day can raise your HDL (“good” cholesterol) levels and lower your LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels. When the ratios between these numbers are balanced, your risk of a heart attack or developing heart disease drops because the cholesterol build up in your arteries decreases.
Reduced risk of cancer
Cancer is one of the world’s leading causes of death, and is characterised by cell mutation and uncontrolled cell growth. There is growing evidence that drinking kombucha may assist with the prevention of certain types of cancer. This is due to the compounds of polyphenols and antioxidants present in the tea used that may prevent your genes from mutating, which is a common cause of cancer.
Kills bad bacteria
One of the main substances produced during the fermentation of kombucha is acetic acid, which is also abundant in vinegar. Like polyphenols found in tea, acetic acid is able to kill many potentially harmful microorganisms. These antimicrobial effects suppress the growth of bad bacteria and yeasts, without affecting the beneficial, probiotic bacteria and yeasts involved in kombucha fermentation.
Drinking kombucha comes with many potential health benefits. If brewed properly or bought in-store, kombucha can be a probiotic-rich drink that is safe to enjoy as part of a healthy diet. Want to learn more on how you can improve your health the natural way? Explore our range of kombucha to kick start your kombucha journey today
