Kombucha is a fermented tea with loads of health benefits. It helps get relief from many health problems as its natural elements are very beneficial for health.
Kombucha has been around for nearly 2,000 years. Although its exact origins are not correctly known, it is assumed that this was first brewed in China, and then got spread to Japan & Russia. Today its sales are on a rise due to its reputation as a natural health and energy drink.
It is made by fermenting sugared tea using a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). SCOBY is actually “a symbiotic growth of acetic acid bacteria and Osmophilic yeast species in a Zoogleal mat”. The living bacteria in Kombucha are said to be probiotic, and it is one of the reasons behind the product’s popularity.
Due to its natural ingredients, it is said to have many positive effects on health like improving the immune system, losing weight, controlling High BP & Heart diseases, etc.
Top 5 Health Benefits of Kombucha:
Some people believe that Kombucha helps treat chronic health problems, although more evidence is expected in the future. Although many benefits of tea and probiotics are evident, both of which are found in this drink.
- Healthy Gut – Fermented foods contain live micro-organisms. As Kombucha is a product of fermentation, the probiotics produced during fermentation can help balance levels of bacteria in the gut and improve digestion. It can also give relief from some gastrointestinal issues. Under some circumstances, consuming this natural drink might also improve irritable bowel syndrome, inflammatory bowel diseases, bloating, and constipation. This is possible due to Lactobacillus, which is a common type of probiotic found in this drink.
- Benefits of Green tea – It is a widely known and well-accepted fact that Green Tea is one of the healthiest beverages on earth. That is because Green Tea contains many bioactive compounds, which can act as a powerful antioxidant in our body. Kombucha made from green tea contains the same compounds and possibly the same health benefits. Studies have also shown that consuming green tea can have many health benefits like reducing fat and controlling Blood Sugar levels etc.
- May Help Prevent Cancer – There is growing evidence that Kombucha may assist in preventing some forms of Cancer. With time and regular consumption of the product, this claim will get more strength. The facts are based on this beverage containing antioxidant properties, which help our body get rid of harmful substances that promote the growth of cancerous cells.
In a study published in January-February 2013, Kombucha was found to inhibit angiogenesis. Since prostate cancer is angiogenesis-dependent, inhibiting angiogenesis can help decrease the survival of prostate cancer. As per a study, the compounds in kombucha that might help inhibit cancer growth include polyphenols, gluconic acid, glucuronic acid, lactic acid, and vitamin C. - Helps Manage Type 2 Diabetes – It is said that Type 2 diabetes affects nearly 300 million people worldwide. A study on diabetic rats found that kombucha helped slow down the digestion of carbs, further reducing blood sugar levels. It also improved liver and kidney function significantly.
Kombucha made of green tea is more likely to be beneficial, as green tea itself has been a proven substance that helps to reduce blood sugar levels. Further human studies are will provide stronger evidence of Kombucha helping to control blood sugar levels, but the studies till now are positive enough. - Reduce Heart Problems – Heart problem is one of the leading causes of death around the world and certainly a big cause of worry too. A rise in heart diseases in the last few years has made people more concerned about their health, and so they are more attentive nowadays to ensure their cardiac condition is correctly functioning.
Green tea drinkers have 31% fewer chances of developing heart issues, which is also found in consuming Kombucha. Its possible potential of influencing Cholesterol levels is one big reason why Kombucha has been considered a product that helps keep healthy cardiovascular health.
The natural, healthy yet yummy beverage has rapidly gained popularity over the years, mainly because of its claimed potential of helping improve gut health along with many other health benefits like providing relief from depression, constipation, and inflammation. Despite its positive impacts on health, Kombucha is not a drink to be consumed by just everyone. If you are under any medication, or; for pregnant or breastfeeding women, it can be harmful if taken without consulting your doctor.
Contaminated kombucha may be more harmful than beneficial. It hugely proposed to purchase it from the companies bottling it, due to many reasons, leading of which is its health concerns. Kombucha is properly fermented and ensured that it does not lead to any ill effects. Apart from this the flavor these companies provide will only add to its positive points. Along with its healthy add-ons in your life, it also brings in a taste that is ready to flirt with your taste buds.