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Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has gained popularity over the years. Fermentation occurs when microorganisms like yeast and bacteria break sugars down into other simpler substances. This process is used to create foods and beverages like beer, wine, bread, kimchi, yogurt, and, of course, kombucha.
You can purchase it by the bottle in countless flavors at most grocery stores or make your own at home. Beyond its delightfully tangy taste, kombucha offers health benefits and is a good source of probiotics and antioxidants.
Kombucha is made with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) that is often referred to as the “mother,” similar to the “mother” found in vinegar. The SCOBY is added to brewed black or green tea along with sugar, fermentation takes place, and voila—kombucha tea is made! While homemade kombucha traditionally isn’t carbonated, many store-bought brands add carbonation for a fizzy soda pop-like experience.
Kombucha originated around 200 B.C. in Northeast China and was originally consumed for its healing properties. Kombucha gained popularity and spread to Russia and other parts of Eastern Europe and Germany before making its way to the United States in the early 21st century. Today you can find kombucha in almost any grocery store!
Kombucha’s health benefits are largely due to fermentation, which produces a probiotic-rich beverage. Kombucha’s health benefits also stem from it being a tea-based beverage. While kombucha can be made with any caffeinated tea, including white, black, oolong, or green, research suggests kombucha made from green tea offers the most benefits.
Below are the evidence-based health benefits of drinking kombucha.
Kombucha, like many fermented foods, is a good source of probiotics.1 Probiotics are bacteria and yeasts that offer health benefits when consumed. Consuming foods naturally rich in probiotics, such as kombucha, kimchi, sauerkraut, and sourdough, can support microbial diversity within your gut and overall gut health. Gut health matters because gut health impacts immune health—in fact, 70 to 80% of immune cells reside in the gut.2 A healthy gut also supports bowel regularity, digestion, cognitive function, and immune health.
Kombucha made with green tea is rich in antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols, which are abundant in green tea. Drinking green tea may help reduce the risk of chronic disease.3, 4, 5 Regular consumption of green tea may also support cognitive function, help manage blood sugar levels, and help burn fat.6, 7
Green tea drinks like kombucha have been shown to help lower the risk of heart disease.8 Researchers believe this may be due to the antioxidant compounds found in green tea.
Green tea has also been shown to have a beneficial effect on blood sugar levels.9 However, since some kombuchas may be high in sugar, check the nutrition label and choose a kombucha with no sugar added after fermentation.
Green tea contains epigallocatechin-3-gallate, also known as EGCG. EGCG acts as a powerful antioxidant that fights free radical damage. EGCG also has anti-inflammatory properties and may help to suppress the action of pro-inflammatory chemicals within the body.10
Kombucha has become popular as a healthier beverage option. While Kombucha may be more nutritious than high-sugar sodas, it does contain caffeine, sugar, and limited amounts of alcohol as a result of fermentation. Keep these cautions in mind and consume kombucha in moderation.
Depending on the brand, some store-bought kombuchas may be high in added sugar. Always read the ingredient list and nutrition facts panel to choose a kombucha with little added sugar.
Proper fermentation and cleanliness are essential for avoiding harmful bacterial growth, particularly in homemade kombucha. Sanitize all glassware properly, wash your hands frequently, and sterilize your workspace to reduce the risk of mold or other harmful bacteria growth.
Kombucha naturally contains alcohol as a byproduct of fermentation. Most store-bought kombucha contains .5% or less alcohol, so it can be sold as a non-alcoholic beverage. For reference, traditional beer contains approximately 4.5% alcohol.
Always check the ingredient label for alcohol content to know exactly how much is in the kombucha you are drinking. And keep in mind that some brands purposely make a higher alcohol level kombucha as an alternative to beer.
Homemade kombucha contains a small amount of alcohol as well—typically between 1% to 2.5% alcohol content.
Those with IBS or other digestive symptoms may want to limit kombucha consumption since added fruit juice and carbonation can exacerbate digestive issues like gas and bloating in some people.
You can also look for starter kits online or kombucha powders if you’d rather not make your own kombucha at home!
This recipe makes one gallon or 32 half-cup servings:
Ingredients:
Directions:
Once kombucha has fermented and the SCOBY is safely removed, you can add fresh juice to naturally add flavor. Blueberry juice, tart cherry juice, pomegranate juice, ginger juice, orange juice, and other juices are all delicious additions that make for tasty kombucha!
Kombucha is a good source of probiotics and, when made with green tea, provides antioxidants like polyphenols that support cognitive function, help manage blood sugar, and support heart health. The EGCGs found in green tea also have anti-inflammatory properties. You can buy kombucha at most grocery stores, make your own at home, or enjoy a powder version mixed with water!
If you’re considering adding kombucha to your wellness routine for its health benefits, talk with a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who can review your health history, dietary intake, and provide individualized dietary feedback.
References:
By Megan Roosevelt, RDN
