Kombucha tea is a health craze that’s recently come to the United States. This tea has been around for thousands of years and is thought to originate from China or Japan. The drink is a mix of black tea and sugar that’s fermented to produce various items, such as probiotics, enzymes, vitamins, and vinegar. The fermentation occurs because of the presence of bacteria and yeast, commonly known as “SCOBY.” Many people in the United States have begun consuming kombucha, citing its various health benefits. It’s available in most grocery stores and even some coffee shops. So what are the incredible health benefits of kombucha?
Improves digestion
Kombucha contains antioxidants that fight free radicals in the digestive tracts, which ultimately helps the process of digestion. The biggest benefit to digestion in kombucha is actually the plentiful probiotics it contains. Probiotics are incredibly beneficial and regulates and balances the amounts of bacteria and yeast in your body. Kombucha helps with issues like leaky gut or ulcers and can often be used instead of prescription drugs.
Increases energy
A constant complaint for many people is that they just don’t have enough energy throughout the day. Kombucha can help solve this common problem. When the black tea ferments, iron is released, which is vital for energy production. If you lack iron, you will have less energy and may even be anemic. There are also small amounts of caffeine, which is normal in black tea, and b-vitamins present in kombucha.
Strengthens immune system
Like improving digestion, kombucha also strengthens the immune system using antioxidants that control free radicals in the body. A specific antioxidant is present in kombucha after the fermentation process. This antioxidant combined with vitamin C is likely responsible for people who drink kombucha experiencing less cell damage, lower levels of inflammation, and a boost in the immune system.
Fights cancer
Studies have shown that consuming glucaric acid can reduce the risk and effects of cancer. Glucaric acid is present in kombucha and is one of the reasons people are so adamant about using it. There’s even a rumor that President Reagan regularly drank kombucha tea as a way to battle stomach cancer.
Helps weight loss
Studies have been done that show kombucha helps quicken the metabolism and also minimize the amount of fat that accumulates in your body. More studies should be done to confirm the results, but kombucha is high in acetic acid and polyphenols, which are known to help with weight loss.