Kombucha making probably began in 250-ish BC China. The term “kombucha” is not nearly as old, but has evolved over many years and geographies.
A fermented drink with black or green tea as its base, kombucha offers the same health benefits as the tea and is also rich in beneficial probiotics. It contains antioxidants, can kill harmful bacteria, and may reduce the risk of several diseases.
And it is carbonated.
We like the combination of tea + probiotics + carbonation
HOW IS IT MADE?
Kombucha is created by fermenting sugar + black or green tea + a SCOBY. The SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), also known as the “mother”, rests on the surface of the brew, growing with each batch. The bacteria and yeast in the SCOBY and starter tea encourage the fermentation.
Fermentation: the process of bacteria and yeast eating up sugar to produce acids, gasses, or alcohol.
The fermentation produces acetic acid — also found in vinegar — and several other acidic compounds, trace levels of alcohol, and gases that create the carbonation.
Below is a paraphrased list of the potential benefits from healthline.com. The original includes additional detail and also links to various studies that we have not included here.
1. Probiotics
As mentioned, kombucha is a source of probiotics. Probiotics provide our gut with healthy bacteria, and may improve many aspects of health including digestion, inflammation, and weight loss. Kombucha contains several species of lactic acid bacteria that may aid probiotic function. (Note: much is being learned about the importance of a healthy gut. We have a post on select current findings in process.)
2. If made from green tea Kombucha may provide the benefits of green tea
Green tea contains many bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, which are powerful antioxidants. Studies show that regular consumption of green tea can increase metabolism, reduce belly fat, improve cholesterol levels and help with blood sugar control. Studies also show that green tea drinkers have a reduced risk of prostate, breast and colon cancers.
3. The antioxidants may benefit liver health
Antioxidants fight free radicals, reactive molecules that can damage our cells. Kombucha, especially when made with green tea, appears to have antioxidant effects on the liver. Studies still need to be performed on humans (as of December 2023).
4. The acetic acid may kill harmful bacteria
The acetic acid in kombucha made from either black or green tea can kill many potentially harmful microorganisms. It has strong antibacterial properties, particularly against infection-causing bacteria like E. coli and Salmonella typhi.
5. May reduce the risk of heart disease
Studies show that kombucha can greatly improve two markers of heart disease, “bad” LDL and “good” HDL cholesterol in as few as 30 days. (Note: we have not researched these “good and bad” numbers and there is research disputing the good and bad levels.)
6. May help manage type 2 diabetes
A 2012 study on diabetic rats found that kombucha slowed down the digestion of carbs, which reduced blood sugar levels. Further human studies are needed.
7. May help protect against cancer
Cancer is characterized by cell mutation and uncontrolled cell growth. There have been test-tube studies showing that kombucha helped prevent the growth and spread of cancerous cells. This is possibly due to its concentration of tea polyphenols and antioxidants.
It is akin to green or black tea + a probiotic + vinegar!
All in a tasty carbonated drink
CHOOSING KOMBUCHA
We choose to purchase kombucha in refrigerated glass bottles. And organic if it is available. One organic brand that we like is Brew Dr.. The flavors and brands include various quantities of sugar. We watch the sugar content when we choose.
Given the carbonation, kombucha will react to shaking under pressure. To combine the sediment in the bottom of the bottle, we gently move the bottle or pour it into a stainless steel or glass container.
CAUTION: As always consult with your Licensed Health Care Professionals. Our content is meant to inform or is the view of others. Research wisely and choose your highest and best. Per the healthline.com post: consult with a healthcare professional before drinking kombucha if you have irritable bowel syndrome, a compromised immune system, are pregnant, or are nursing. Also, improperly prepared kombucha may have adverse health effects. A safer option is to buy bottled kombucha.
Photo credit: Image by 鹈鹂 夏 from Pixabay