Much like any superfood that gains rapid popularity, kombucha is a thing many people want to get their hands on without knowing exactly what it is. So, here is everything you need to know about this fermented tea, its health benefits, and why you should consider adding it to your diet. Let’s dive in!
What Is Kombucha?
Kombucha is a type of beverage that is made from green and/or black tea that’s combined with yeast or strains of bacteria and sugar. Once mixed, the liquid is left to ferment for one week or more. As the fermentation process progresses, a lumpy compound called SCOBY (in the picture below) forms at the top. This means the beverage is ready for flavoring. You can use herbs and spices, and fruits and juice to make it refreshingly delicious. For example, you can use grapefruit and ginger.
Why Is Kombucha Good for You?
While it’s fermenting, the liquid forms lactic acid bacteria that offer probiotic benefits, for instance, providing your gut with healthy bacteria. Furthermore, kombucha may reduce heart disease risk and even contains antioxidants, which are substances that fight free radicals, reactive molecules that can damage your cells.
Health Benefits
Possibly the most widely known benefit of kombucha is the antioxidants contained in the green or black tea’s polyphenols. These also have anti-inflammatory properties, which make the fermented tea the perfect beverage if you have a cold. Another health benefit of kombucha is the species of lactobacillus bacteria that is naturally found in the SCOBY. This helps introduce immune and digestive improvement properties in your gut flora. In addition to these, the caffeine and catechin found in green tea can speed up metabolism and promote weight loss.