beneficios kombucha

THE BENEFITS OF DRINKING KOMBUCHA

Kombucha tea, a fermented beverage that has been consumed for thousands of years, has gained popularity recently due to a series of science-backed health benefits. Although more studies are still needed to fully confirm its advantages, in this article we list the most notable ones.

Kombucha is a source of a wide range of bioactive components that are digested, absorbed and metabolized by the body, which exert their effects at the cellular level. The analysis concludes that kombucha contains: amino acids, beneficial yeasts, bacteria, enzymes, vitamin B, vitamin B6, gluconic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid and saccharic acid.

Here are the top 6 health benefits of drinking kombucha, based on scientific evidence.

1. It is a possible source of probiotics

Kombucha contains a wide variety of yeasts and bacteria that, during fermentation, transform sugar into organic acids, while producing cellulose on the surface known as SCOBY. Although there is still no evidence of the probiotic benefits of kombucha, it contains several species of lactic acid bacteria that could have a probiotic function.

Probiotics provide your gut with healthy bacteria. These bacteria can improve many aspects of health, including digestioninflammation, and even weight loss.

For this reason, incorporating beverages like kombucha into your diet could help improve your health.

2. Contributes to liver detoxification

Kombucha, particularly that made with green tea, can also play a key role in liver detoxification. Its antioxidant properties not only protect the liver against oxidative damage, but may also support its natural detoxification function. According to a study published in the Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, rats fed kombucha were found to show lower levels of liver toxins compared to the control group. While this is an animal study and we need more human research, it indicates the potential of kombucha in promoting liver health and its detoxification capacity.

3. Benefits for digestion

Kombucha, in addition to its well-known enriching benefits for the intestinal flora, has peculiarities that directly influence healthy digestion. One of the most notable is the low (acidic) pH of kombucha. This acidic environment, derived from its fermentation process, facilitates the breakdown of food in the stomach, leading to more efficient digestion.

This acidic pH is the result of the production of various organic acids during fermentation. Among them, acetic acid stands out, not only for its antimicrobial properties, but also for its ability to improve digestion by balancing the intestinal environment.

On the other hand, kombucha is also rich in digestive enzymes that result from its fermentation process. These enzymes play a crucial role in aiding in the breakdown of complex foods, thus facilitating their absorption and reducing the burden on the digestive system.

4. May help fight bacterial infections

One of the main substances produced during the fermentation of kombucha is acetic acid, present in vinegar.

Like the polyphenols in tea, acetic acid can kill many potentially harmful microorganisms.

Kombucha made from green tea seems to have strong antibacterial properties, especially against infection-causing bacteria and Candida yeasts.

These antimicrobial effects suppress the growth of unwanted bacteria and yeasts, but they do not affect the beneficial, probiotic bacteria and yeasts involved in the fermentation of kombucha.

5. Lowers cholesterol levels

Animal research has been carried out, which shows that kombucha has contributed to the reduction of levels of bad LDL cholesterol and the increase of good HDL. Although promising, more research in humans is still needed.

More importantly, tea (especially green tea) protects LDL cholesterol particles from oxidation, which is thought to contribute to heart disease.

In fact, green tea consumers have up to a 31% lower risk of developing heart disease, a benefit that can also apply to kombucha.

6. May help control diabetes and blood sugar levels

Type 2 diabetes affects more than 450 million people worldwide. It is characterized by high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance.

A study on diabetic rats found that kombucha slowed down the digestion of carbohydrates, which reduced blood sugar levels. It also improved liver and kidney function. Specifically, it improved two markers of diabetes: the absorption of glucose into liver cells and the inhibition of enzymes that break down carbohydrates, which can help lower blood sugar levels.

Kombucha made from green tea is probably even more beneficial, as green tea itself has been shown to lower blood sugar levels.

In fact, a literature review of nearly 300,000 individuals found that green tea consumers had an 18% lower risk of developing diabetes.

2023 UPDATE: The first controlled human trial on the effects of drinking kombucha has recently been published. The study, carried out by the Glycemic Index Research Service at the University of Sydney, evaluated the glycemic index (GI) and insulin index (II) responses in 11 healthy adults after eating a meal rich in carbohydrates. This meal was accompanied by different beverages, including unpasteurized kombucha, and the results were compared to controls such as sparkling water and diet lemonade soda.

When consuming soda water or sugar-free soft drinks, there were no noticeable changes in blood glucose and insulin. However, when drinking kombucha, post-meal glycaemic and insulin responses decreased significantly. Although the exact mechanisms behind these effects are not fully understood, it is thought that the polyphenols, organic acids, and microorganisms in kombucha could slow down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates, thus attenuating the glycemic response. Despite being a study with a small sample of humans, it opens up possibilities for future research, highlighting the need for more studies on the impact of kombucha on blood sugar.

Remember that even though kombucha has a lower sugar content than other fermented products, it still contains some amount and it also depends on the brands! People with diabetes should be aware of and stay in line with their daily sugar intake goals.

It’s important to remember that despite the potential benefits of kombucha, it should not be used as a replacement for conventional medical treatments for any disease. In addition, moderate consumption is key, given its sugar and caffeine content. As with everything, excess can be harmful.

In short, current science supports several health benefits of kombucha. However, more research is still needed to fully understand its impact and potential use in preventive and therapeutic medicine.

Do you need help choosing your kombucha?

Kombucha in the daily diet

How to integrate kombucha into your daily routine

Integrating kombucha into your daily diet is easy and can replace many less healthy drinks. For example, you can replace a soda or coffee mid-morning with a glass of kombucha. In addition to being a healthier option, kombucha provides additional benefits such as probiotics and antioxidants.

Substitution of sugary drinks and soft drinks

Drinking kombucha instead of sugary drinks and soda is a statement of intent towards a healthier life.

Once you start consuming kombucha, you will notice that you do not crave sugary drinks.

Kombucha is an acquired flavor, and over time, you'll learn to appreciate its unique nuances, making traditional sodas seem overly sweet and artificial.

Kombucha for athletes: recovery and energy

For athletes, kombucha is an excellent option for post-workout recovery.

MŪN Kombucha Isotonic with sea water is particularly effective in replenishing electrolytes lost during exercise. This not only aids in physical recovery but also provides a natural source of energy to carry you through the day.

Palate Development for fermented foods

The Acquired Flavor of Kombucha

Kombucha has a unique flavor that can be acquired over time. At first, it may seem strong or strange, but with regular consumption, you will begin to detect and enjoy the nuances and complexity of its flavor.

Comparison with other fermented drinks

As you develop your palate for kombucha, you may also find increasing interest in other fermented drinks, such as kefir or kvass.

These drinks also offer probiotic benefits and can be a great addition to a healthy diet. The diversity of flavors and benefits of fermented beverages makes each choice not only healthy, but also a culinary adventure.

Perception and lifestyle

Kombucha as a declaration of intentions towards a healthy life

Drinking kombucha is more than just a beverage choice; It is a declaration of intentions towards a healthy lifestyle.

Opting for kombucha instead of less healthy options demonstrates a commitment to your well-being and a preference for what is natural and beneficial for the body.

Preference for natural and healthy drinks

The preference for kombucha reflects a growing trend towards choosing natural and healthy products.

In our case, drinking kombucha has been an integral part of our transition to a more conscious and healthy life. Not only do we feel better physically, but we also have the peace of mind knowing that we are consuming something beneficial for our body.

With 4 questions we will tell you which kombucha is best for you. Shall we begin?

Frequently asked questions about the benefits of drinking kombucha

FAQ

The benefits of drinking kombucha

were described by researchers Dufresne & Farnworth 2000.
According their conclusion, drinking kombucha:

Detoxifies the blood
Reduces cholesterol level
Reduces atherosclerosis by regeneration of cell walls
Reduces blood pressure
Reduces inflammatory problems
Alleviates arthritis, rheumatism, and gout symptoms
Promotes liver functions
Normalizes intestinal activity, balance intestinal flora, cure hemorrhoids
Reduces obesity and regulate appetite
Prevents/heals bladder infection and reduce kidney calcification
Stimulates glandular systems
Protects against diabetes
Increases body resistance to cancer
Has an antibiotic effect against bacteria, viruses, and yeasts
Enhances the immune system and stimulate interferon production
Relieves bronchitis and asthma
Reduces menstrual disorders and menopausal hot flashes
Improves hair, skin, and nail health
Reduces an alcoholic’s craving for alcohol
Reduces stress and nervous disturbances, and insomnia
Relieves headaches
Improves eyesight
Counteracts aging
Enhances general metabolism