Here’s What Drinking Kombucha Can And Can’t Do For You

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By Sam Ramsden/Sept. 10, 2021 12:50 pm EDT

Kombucha has quickly become all the rage over the past few years, particularly with health-conscious consumers looking to cut out processed fizzy drinks. But, what exactly is it, and what are the pros and cons of drinking kombucha? 

According to BBC Good Food, kombucha is a fizzy and slightly sour drink made from sweetened tea that is usually consumed by those in search of an alternative to drinks packed full of sugar or artificial sweeteners. Although kombucha may seem like the latest trend, the beverage actually boasts a very long history and originated in China in 220 BC, before eventually reaching other parts of the world. Per WebMD, the drink is created by adding a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast, otherwise known as SCOBY, to sweetened green or black tea and left at room temperature to ferment. 

Kombucha is believed to have many health benefits. Although, there are also potential downsides to the trendy beverage as well. 

What are the pros and cons of drinking kombucha?

Per BBC Good Food, kombucha is believed to be a good source of probiotics, which can improve digestion and help balance the gut microbiome. The drink is also high in antioxidants and contains vitamins and minerals including vitamin C, B1, B6, and B12. Although, it is worth noting that not enough extensive research has been carried out into the health benefits of kombucha. 

According to Healthline, it is possible to drink too much kombucha, and this kind of overconsumption can lead to potential health and diet issues. Because the drink is carbonated, too much kombucha could lead to bloating and excess gas. Depending on the brand, the beverage may also be high in calories and lead to excess calorie intake and subsequent weight gain. 

Certain brands are also known to add fruit juice or cane sugar to the drink to make it more appealing to customers. Some kombucha drinks even contain the equivalent of seven teaspoons of sugar in one single serving. Too much sugar in a person’s diet can lead to an increased risk of obesity, fatty liver, heart disease, and diabetes. So, although it seems there could be significant health benefits when drinking kombucha, it’s perhaps best to enjoy the popular beverage in moderation, just in case. 

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