Originating in the Far East around 2,000 years ago, kombucha is a beverage with tremendous health benefits since it contains powerful antioxidants and can help to detoxify the body and protect against disease.
Kombucha is fermented by a colony of bacteria and yeast. Once fermented, kombucha becomes slightly effervescent, vinegary and tastes tart. Often fresh fruit juice and other flavors may be added at the end of the brewing process to make kombucha more palatable.
Benefits of Kombucha
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Kombucha supports a healthy gut
Because of its high levels of beneficial acid, probiotics, amino acids and enzymes promote healthy digestion and soothe an upset stomach. Probiotics are the good gut bacteria, can help deter or provide relief from problems like IBS, diarrhea, and constipation.
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Kombucha supports detoxification of the body
High levels of enzymes and bacterial acids present in kombucha aids in natural detoxification. Gluconic acid, which is found in kombucha as well as in fruits and veggies, may bind to toxins to help expel them from the body.
Glucaric acid, also a product of kombucha tea fermentation, may boost the efficiency of the livers detoxifying tracts.
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Kombucha support the immune system
A healthy gut full of beneficial bacteria may help to stimulate the immune system. Probiotics, specifically from those in fermented foods can strengthen our natural defenses against harmful microbes and some forms of illnesses.
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Kombucha may aid in cancer prevention
Glucaric acid, which is found in kombucha and foods like grapefruit and cruciferous veggies, may help reduce cancer risk. Lactobacillus type microbes found in some kombucha may also activate our natural cancer-killing cells.
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Kombucha may help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and blood sugar levels
When our healthy microbes are depleted, obesity and diabetes can result. The natural acids and antioxidant properties found in the beverage may promote fat loss.
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Kombucha may aid in weight loss
When kombucha is consumed before meals, it helps to increase metabolism. The green tea and black tea varieties of kombucha are particularly effective by combining the antioxidant power of the tea and the symbiotic colony in the kombucha.
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Kombucha may help improve your mental state
B vitamins in kombucha, specifically vitamins B1, B6, and B12, may help battle depression, stabilize mood, and enhance concentration. The vitamin C in kombucha, in turn, inhibits the release of stress hormone cortisol.