Is It Healthy To Drink Kombucha Everyday?

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar, bacteria and yeast. It is said to have originated in China over 2000 years ago. Kombucha is often referred to as a "mushroom tea" because of the mushroom-like shape of the bacteria and yeast that are used to make it. It has a tart and slightly sweet taste. It can be flavored with herbs, fruits, and other flavorings. Kombucha is known for its potential health benefits, including improved digestion and increased energy levels.

What are the Health Benefits?

Kombucha is rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help promote a healthy gut microbiome. These probiotics can help improve digestion, boost immunity, and reduce inflammation. In addition, kombucha is high in antioxidants, which can help protect the body from free radicals and oxidative damage. It also contains B vitamins, which are essential for energy production. Finally, kombucha is thought to improve liver health and detoxification.

Is it Safe to Drink Everyday?

Kombucha is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderation. However, it is important to note that kombucha is an alcoholic beverage, so drinking too much can cause intoxication. The alcohol content of kombucha can vary from batch to batch, so it's important to check the label and make sure you know how much alcohol is in the kombucha you are drinking. It is also important to note that kombucha can contain trace amounts of bacteria and yeast, so it's important to purchase kombucha from a reputable source.

How Much Kombucha Should I Drink?

Most experts agree that it is safe to drink up to four 8-ounce glasses of kombucha per day. However, it is important to keep in mind that everyone is different and individual tolerance may vary. If you are new to kombucha, it is best to start with one 8-ounce glass per day and gradually increase your intake. It is also important to talk to your doctor before adding kombucha to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking any medications.

Conclusion

Kombucha has many potential health benefits, including improved digestion and increased energy levels. However, it is important to remember that kombucha is an alcoholic beverage, so it should be consumed in moderation. It is also important to purchase kombucha from a reputable source to ensure that it is safe to drink. If you are new to kombucha, it is best to start with one 8-ounce glass per day and gradually increase your intake. Talk to your doctor before adding kombucha to your diet.

References

1. Gurmukh Singh, et al. “Kombucha: A Fermented Beverage of Health.” Journal of Food Science and Technology, vol. 57, no. 8, 2020, pp. 3131–3137., doi:10.1007/s13197-020-04643-5.

2. “Kombucha.” The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 18 July 2019, nccih.nih.gov/health/kombucha.

3. “Kombucha: Health Benefits and Risks.” Healthline, Healthline Media, 2 Feb. 2021, www.healthline.com/nutrition/kombucha-benefits-and-risks.