Buzz
In recent times, people's health consciousness has surged, with beverages high in nutritional value taking the lead. There's a rising trend of swapping bottled drinks and regular juices for kombucha. So, What is Kombucha, and how does this beverage contribute to health? Let's explore it with Mytour Blog in this article!
What is Kombucha?
While Strongbow is a naturally fermented drink from apples, Kombucha is crafted from tea, various bacteria, yeast, and sugar, yielding its distinct sour taste. The bacteria primarily come from beneficial strains rich in nutrients such as probiotics, organic acids, antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, and minerals.
Crafting your own kombucha at home involves fermenting green or black tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). During fermentation, the microbes in SCOBY break down the sugar in tea, producing beneficial bacteria. Additionally, the longer the fermentation, the more carbonation is present in Kombucha, resulting in a tangier flavor.
What is Kombucha? (Source: Internet)Health Benefits of Kombucha
In reality, no beverage can cure or prevent a specific illness. However, based on the nutritional components of kombucha, most nutrition experts recommend daily consumption to provide essential nutrients and promote overall health benefits.
Supports Digestive Health
Kombucha is a fermented beverage rich in probiotics and beneficial bacteria that can alleviate digestive disorders and balance the gut microbiota. According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, some effects of probiotics on the gut include:
- Limiting diarrhea
- Managing intestinal issues
- Alleviating irritable bowel syndrome.
Combining regular physical activity with a healthy diet incorporating probiotic-rich foods and beverages can significantly enhance gut health.
Supports Digestive System Issues (Source: Internet)Kombucha Boosts the Immune System
The probiotic effects in Kombucha bolster immune resilience by stimulating immune activity and balancing beneficial bacteria levels in the body. Furthermore, acetic acid and other components like glucuronic and D-Saccharic acids also possess antibacterial properties. However, these analyses are based on animal bodies and only one human trial, so further in-depth research is needed on this matter.
Probiotics Enhance the Immune System (Source: Internet)Rich in Antioxidants
Abundant antioxidants in kombucha are polyphenols, acting to shield the body from damages caused by free radicals. Numerous analyses indicate that antioxidants in natural foods are generally healthier than those in dietary supplements. Enzymes and acids support the liver in eliminating harmful compounds from the body. Particularly, some studies suggest the potential of kombucha in combating fatty liver disease when incorporated into the diet.
Kombucha Aids in Controlling Type 2 Diabetes
According to an analysis, this beverage has a role in managing type 2 diabetes, although this study is speculative and based on animal models.
A recent analysis involving 11 individuals consuming a high-carbohydrate meal with regular soda, lemon water, and unsterilized kombucha revealed significant reductions in blood sugar and insulin levels for kombucha drinkers. However, further research is needed to fully understand its impact on type 2 diabetes.
Kombucha Reduces the Risk of Heart Disease
The primary risk factor for heart disease is elevated lipoprotein cholesterol levels. Zumpano suggests that Kombucha has the potential to increase good HDL cholesterol and decrease bad LDL cholesterol, limiting plaque buildup in the arteries. Additionally, daily green tea consumption is associated with a 31% reduction in the risk of heart disease compared to non-drinkers.
Limiting the Risk of Heart Disease (Source: Internet)Anti-Cancer Properties
One prominent and undeniable benefit of Kombucha is its potential in cancer prevention. While research on the cancer-fighting role of polyphenols in tea is not conclusive, these compounds show the ability to limit gene mutations and the growth of cancer cells effectively.
Most regular tea drinkers tend to experience fewer issues related to cancer. However, health experts are still in the process of conducting thorough analyses on this matter to provide the most compelling evidence for its impact on human health.
Drawbacks of Kombucha Tea
Despite containing beneficial bacteria and probiotics, excessive consumption of this beverage may lead to adverse effects such as headaches, nausea, indigestion, and even ketoacidosis.
For those aiming to brew kombucha at home, experts advise against using clay vessels or other containers that may introduce lead into the final product. Instead, opt for glass containers. Additionally, if the product becomes contaminated with mold and produces an excess of yeast, it can compromise the quality of the beverage.
Risks of incorrect kombucha tea usage (Source: Internet)Who should avoid kombucha?
So, who should avoid this product? This beverage, with its acidic nature, alcohol content, and caffeine, is not recommended for children, pregnant or nursing women, and individuals with kidney or compromised immune system issues to prevent potential side effects.
Here is all the information for the question What is Kombucha and related details that Mytour wants to bring to you. Overall, the nutritional content in tea and beneficial bacteria still offers positive effects such as boosting the immune system, controlling and preventing diseases. Additionally, be mindful of potential side effects. If you decide to brew it at home, follow the instructions carefully and ensure safe hygiene practices.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many calories does Kombucha have?
Kombucha tea varies widely in calorie content. Some bottled products contain around 120 calories, depending on the brand and different ingredients. If you want to limit calories, you can opt for low-calorie options or consume a smaller amount each day.
