Kombucha is all the rage right now. It’s popping up in stores all over and being praised by the real food community. So, what is kombucha? Kombucha is a fermented tea, loaded with probiotics. The process of making kombucha starts with tea, sugar, and a SCOBY (a colony of bacteria that are able to reproduce). The mixture is then kept in a dark place at room temperature and ferments for a couple weeks. After the first fermentation it is optional to add fruit and ferment again to make the kombucha bubbly.
Kombucha can be a great alternative for people who love carbonated beverages. Kombucha has been around for thousands of years, but has just started gaining popularity in the West recently. Traditionally, it has been used for its many health benefits:
1. Digestive/Gut Health– Kombucha is loaded with probiotics! Probiotics are essential for gut health and proper digestion. It can help prevent candida overgrowth, improve digestive function, improve mood, improve focus, provide mental clarity, & relieve anxiety.
2. Immune System- Kombucha is filled with antioxidants, which are great for boosting your immune system. It can also protect you from cell damage, inflammation, and help to prevent diseases such as cancer.
3. Energy– Kombucha can be used whenever you need a pick-me-up instead of harmful energy drinks, or gut-irritating coffee. It gives a natural energy boost with no crash later.
4. Detoxification– Kombucha has many enzymes and bacteria that help your body to detox. It helps take the burden off of your liver and keeps your liver healthy. It helps keep harmful material out of your body and to heal from illnesses.
5. Weight Loss– Kombucha increases metabolism and encourages you to eat less, leading to weight loss.
6. PMS– Kombucha has B vitamins in it, which helps to break down any extra estrogen in the body. This can help to relieve symptoms of PMS.
7. Joint Health– Kombucha has glucosamines in it, which are known to help treat and prevent arthritis. It helps with the health of collagen, cartilage, and lubrication of joints.
8. Antioxidants– Kombucha contains many antioxidants, which are strengthened due to the fermentation. This may help with curing diseases that are caused by oxidative stress.
9. High Blood Pressure– Kombucha may help with the treatment of high blood pressure. It can also help prevent headaches and dizziness associated with high blood pressure.
Kombucha is a bit of an acquired taste (like wine) but I really do enjoy it (like wine, haha). Give it a try and feel the benefits! Buying kombucha in stores can be quite pricey but it’s not hard to make it yourself! Click here for recipes for homemade kombucha from stupideasypaleo.com!
