Is Kombucha Healthy? 8 Health Benefits of Kombucha
Is kombucha good for you?
Kombucha is a type of fermented beverage that uses sugar and black tea to serve as a functional food. The sugar source can come from cane sugar, honey, or fruit. Kombucha contains yeast and bacteria that initiate the fermentation process when mixed with sugar. Once fermented, it becomes carbonated and filled with vinegar, enzymes, b-vitamins, probiotics, and high acid concentration (lactic, acetic, and gluconic). All of these can provide many benefits to health. Let’s take a look.
Health Benefits Of Kombucha
Weight Loss
Studies show that kombucha helps improve metabolism, while limiting fat accumulation. While there is still a need for more studies to solidify these facts, it makes sense that the beverage supports weight loss. This is because the drink contains high levels of acetic acid, just like the apple cider vinegar, as well as polyphenols that also aid in weight management. If you want to drop some extra pounds, try drinking this every day.
Reduced Heart Disease Risk
Heart disease is the leading cause of death worldwide. Scientists have found that kombucha can improve HDL and LDL in just a month. The tea it contains was also found to have the ability to protect LDL cholesterol from oxidation to prevent heart disease.
Improved Digestion
Kombucha contains antioxidants that counteract the free radicals that damage the body systems. It helps improve digestion because of its high levels of enzymes, probiotics, and beneficial acid. Some studies have shown this drink’s ability to help treat stomach ulcers and leaky gut.
Better Immune System
The large number of antioxidants present in kombucha causes drinkers to enjoy better immune system. It controls the free radicals inside the body, and destroys them. Kombucha is clinically proven to help reduce oxidative stress and other immuno-suppressors. Thanks to its powerful antioxidant, called D-saccharic acid-1, 4-lactone, which is formed during the fermentation process. Scientists believe that the vitamin C and DSL present in kombucha are the main reasons why it can potentially protect the body against cell damage and several diseases.
Regulated Blood Sugar Levels
Over 300 million people worldwide suffer from type 2 diabetes, which is characterised by insulin resistance and high levels of blood sugar. Kombucha was found to have the ability to regulate blood sugar levels, and improve kidney and liver function. Drinking it regularly can help to offset some of the risk associated with the onset of diabetes.
Healthier Joints
This fermented beverage can help prevent and repair joint damage in numerous ways. It is packed with glucosamines that boost the production of synovial hyaluronic acid. The presence of this acid will support collagen preservation, and may help fight arthritic discomfort. It is also thought to protect the joints from pain and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the skin- nice!
Potential Reduced Cancer Risk
Apart from heart disease, cancer is also one of the top causes of death worldwide. A person with cancer experiences uncontrolled cell growth and mutation. Studies have shown that kombucha can help with abnormal cell growth, thanks to its powerful antioxidants and polyphenols.
How polyphenols combat cell growth is still yet to be fully-understood. However, it is believed that they block the growth, as well as gene mutation, of cancerous cells. They were also thought to help promote the destruction of these cells.
Detoxified Body
All people are exposed to free radicals, particularly those living in highly-polluted urban areas. Kombucha contains a large number of antioxidants. It was found that this drink can counteract toxicity in liver cells. Studies revealed that it protected the body’s liver cells from oxidative stress and helped maintain the organ’s overall health. The antioxidant activity in the body caused by kombucha can help prevent several diseases and keep all body systems working in top condition.
Also read: 8 AMAZING HEALTH BENEFITS OF BLACK TEA