Does kombucha have contraindications?

Kombucha is a safe drink for most healthy adults, but it is not suitable for everyone. Due to its acidity, its small residual alcohol content, and its live nature with probiotics, there are situations and conditions in which its consumption should be limited or avoided. We tell you all about them.

Precautions with homemade kombucha

Preparing kombucha at home without adequate hygienic conditions can lead to contamination. Kombucha is a live drink: its composition adapts and changes according to the environment, and maintaining an active colony (the SCOBY) requires specific hygienic measures.

During fermentation, there are risks of contamination by unwanted bacteria and fungi, such as Aspergillus. Therefore, if you decide to make kombucha at home, rigorously follow the steps and preparation conditions.

May cause initial digestive discomfort

Not everyone reacts to kombucha in the same way. Despite its potential digestive benefits, some people may experience slight discomfort when incorporating it into their diet. This is due to its acidic nature and high probiotic content.

Those not accustomed to fermented foods may experience temporary symptoms such as flatulence, nausea, or changes in bowel movements. The recommendation is to start with small amounts (100-150 ml per day) during the first week and gradually increase so that the microbiota adapts.

Contraindications in case of SIBO

Kombucha is not a suitable drink for everyone. If you suspect you have or have been diagnosed with SIBO (small intestinal bacterial overgrowth), we recommend resolving this dysbiosis before consuming kombucha. Once treated, you can incorporate it into your diet without issue.

Contraindications in pregnant and breastfeeding women

We do not recommend kombucha consumption for pregnant women who have never consumed it before, nor during breastfeeding. The reason: to preserve its probiotic properties, authentic kombucha is not pasteurised, and during pregnancy and breastfeeding, specialists recommend avoiding unpasteurised products.

Furthermore, it contains a small amount of residual alcohol (below 1.2%) inherent to fermentation. More information in our specific guide on pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Contraindications in children

In the case of children, with an immune system still developing, we do not recommend unrestricted kombucha consumption. If they are curious to try it, it is advisable to offer it in small doses or mixed with water, ice, or carbonated water. Remember that it may contain traces of caffeine and alcohol.

Contraindications in case of digestive problems

The suitability of consuming kombucha in case of digestive problems is not a straightforward matter. Many digestive ailments originate from dysbiosis or imbalances in the gut microbiota. If probiotics —including kombucha— are consumed regularly, many problems can improve because the microbiota is better prepared to resolve them.

Regarding specific conditions such as irritable bowel syndrome, gas, or gastritis, in some cases, the consumption of a highly probiotic drink, rich in fructans and with natural fizz, can worsen symptoms due to intolerance to some of these components. Diets such as FODMAP advise against incorporating kombucha.

In case of gastroenteritis or diarrhoea, regular prior consumption of probiotics will make the microbiota better prepared to overcome the episode. During the episode, the intake of probiotic microorganisms can also contribute to improvement.

Our advice: consult with the healthcare specialist treating you, indicating your intention to consume kombucha. If the option is to consume it, start with a small amount to observe tolerance and see if symptoms improve or worsen.

Contraindications in people with diabetes

That one of kombucha's ingredients is sugar often concerns people with diabetes, who must thoroughly check the sugar content of the products they consume. It is important to clarify that sugar is essential for making kombucha: it is the fuel that yeasts and bacteria use during fermentation. What matters is the residual sugar that remains at the end.

Not all kombuchas are the same. The most appropriate approach is to check the labels and choose the one with the lowest possible residual sugar. The sugar content of each kombucha depends on the production method and fermentation time: the longer the time, the less sugar.

Although there are no published studies yet on the benefits of kombucha consumption in humans with diabetes, preliminary research in animal models points to a possible role in regulating gut microbiota and hyperglycaemia. In any case, people with diabetes should consult their doctor before incorporating it.

Contraindications in coeliacs

If you are looking for a kombucha that is gluten-free, it should not be a problem. In the case of Mūn Kombucha, all raw materials are free from gluten and traces, and we carry out periodic controls on the finished product to confirm the absence of gluten.

Contraindications in case of candidiasis

Kombucha consumption in case of candidiasis should be discussed with the healthcare professional overseeing the treatment. This fermented tea appears to have antibacterial properties (especially against infection-causing bacteria) and antifungal properties (against Candida yeasts), so it could contribute to improving the condition.

Mūn Kombucha would be a suitable option during candidiasis, as it contains very little sugar (one of the main foods to limit in this condition).

It's not all contraindications

Despite the precautions that should be taken when drinking kombucha, we cannot overlook its documented benefits. This fermented drink is associated with digestive improvements, immune system support, and antioxidant supply. Its content of B vitamins, enzymes, and minerals completes the nutritional contribution. If you want to know more, consult our guide on what kombucha is and its properties.

Frequently asked questions about contraindications