The Truth About Kombucha Health Trends
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Kombucha may be the hottest health trend you might not have heard about.
The health of our gut says a lot about our overall health, so it is important to stay on top of maintaining our digestive system.
In recent years, many people have looked to kombucha to help regulate their digestive system and improve their overall health. Proponents claim that the cultures in the fermented beverage are beneficial to the gut and that the drink can help prevent diseases that affect our digestive system.
But are these claims true, and is kombucha really worthwhile when trying to fix our digestive health?
How Is Kombucha Made?
The fermentation that takes place when kombucha is brewed plays a major part in the claims about improved gut health. Kombucha is brewed with SCOBY, or a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast.
After being strained from the main drink, the SCOBY can be used over and over again to brew other batches. It is similar to a sourdough bread starter.
When this mixture ferments, it creates probiotics . Probiotics are often cited as beneficial bacteria for the gut
What Are The Health Benefits?
Kombucha is a natural substance and reported health benefits are not medically proven.
Many people have taken probiotics to help treat diarrhea and ease the symptoms of irritable bowel system. Some people claim that probiotics also help to prevent indigestion and acid reflux.
Because they create a balance in the gut, they may be beneficial in overall gut health.
When we drink alcohol, use antibiotics, or eat unhealthily, we often reduce the number of helpful microbes in our gut. Replenishing our probiotic supply can help us to counteract the negative effects of this.
Weight Loss and Kombucha
In addition to probiotics, there are many enzymes and organic acids that can help to promote healthy digestion. They can either aid an already healthy gut or help to relieve the symptoms inherent in an unhealthy gut.
As they work together, we experience better gut health which leads to improved overall health, both physically and mentally.
Many kombuchas are made with green tea, which also has benefits for the stomach. It contains polyphenols which work as antioxidants to protect and nourish the body.
Green tea can help to increase calories burned throughout the day, promoting weight loss and a reduction in belly fat. These can all be linked to better gut health.
Should You Drink Kombucha to Improve Your Gut Health?
While many people report experiencing the benefits of kombucha, there are no proven links between the beverage and better gut health.
Anecdotal evidence doesn’t necessarily imply that there is proof. You should consult with a doctor before attempting to treat any ailments that you may have.
If you are cleared to try kombucha, it can be a tasty and possibly effective way to improve your overall health. It doesn’t work for everybody, but you may notice some benefits when you drink it.
It is important to moderate your consumption, as certain negative side effects can take place.
Your best bet is to start with small amounts of kombucha. It is harmless for most people, and in the end you may find that your gut health improves in the long run.
Consuming Kombucha & Side Effects
Kombucha is a fermented tea that has been gaining in popularity in recent years. While many have heard about it and even tried it, they may not be aware of what Kombucha actually is or the effects it can have on the body.
Many have claimed that there are myriad health benefits that come with consuming kombucha thanks to the fermentation and good bacteria that comes from it.
Here is some information about kombucha and the effects that it may have on your body when you drink it regularly.
What is Kombucha?
Kombucha is type of tea that is made using something known as SCOBY, which is a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast.
Some people incorrectly describe kombucha as a mushroom, because the SCOBY might LOOK like a mushroom, but it is really just the result of this culture coming together to ferment.
While the origin of kombucha remains a mystery, most people think that it originated in Northeastern China. Kombucha can be brewed at home but today it is also available widely in commercial markets.
Side Effects
There are some side effects that can come along with consuming kombucha. Some may be positive while others are negative, so it is important to consume it in moderation to see how it reacts with your system.
Alcohol Buzz
Kombucha contains some alcohol, so if you have a low tolerance, you may experience the effects that you would receive from having a cocktail. Generally, this won’t happen with store-bought kombucha as the percentage is less than .05, but it could happen with stronger, home-brewed products.
Improved Digestion
Some people have reported that they benefit from a more regular bathroom schedule after consuming kombucha. His could be because of the healthy bacteria that kombucha introduces to the gut. Of course, this should be monitored and taken in moderation.
Improved Mental State
Because of the high level of B vitamins, it could help to improve your mental state. B12 is known to increase energy levels and to help with mental focus.
Lowered Blood Sugar
Kombucha may be harmful for people with diabetes, contributing to low blood sugar levels, so it is important to monitor this if you have diabetes and drink kombucha.
Yeast Infection
For those who suffer from candida, kombucha may be better avoided due to its high levels of yeast. Although it can help with digestion, it may contribute to an increased likelihood of a yeast infection.
Acidosis
In some cases, people have suffered from acidosis, which is a condition when there is an abnormally high amount of acid in the body. If left untreated, the condition can be fatal.
Liver Damage
A few rare cases have resulted in liver damage. This is more likely if you are an alcoholic or if you have a weakened immune system. The tea can support the growth of certain bacteria and fungi that can lead to infections if your body is unable to deal with them.
Diarrhea
Because kombucha has caffeine, it may cause diarrhea in people who are sensitive to the substance.
Will Drinking Kombucha Aid In Weight Loss?
Of the many health benefits that have been claimed about kombucha, weight loss is one that has intrigued people all over the globe.
The concept is that because the drink is good for your gut health, it will help you to reduce cravings and improve your digestion, which will lead to weight loss over time.
But can drinking kombucha really help you shrink your waistline? Read below to find out if this weight loss method is right for you.
The Claim That Kombucha Can Help You Lose Weight
Kombucha enthusiasts claim that the SCOBY, or symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, works to improve overall gut health.
Because it contains probiotics, also known as good bacteria, it helps to create balance in your digestive system. When you lack balance, you have cravings, food sensitivities, indigestion, and bloating among other issues. The bacteria and enzymes help relieve these problems, helping you to benefit from proper digestion.
Fans of kombucha believe that there is a strong correlation between a healthy gut and an overall healthy weight.
Because proper digestion can reduce cravings, you will naturally eat smaller amounts of unhealthy foods, replacing them with things that are good for you.
When your digestion is working properly, you will have more energy and be more likely to exercise. It also helps with nutrient absorption, keeping you more mentally aware and helping you take advantage of increased stamina.
Others claim that the acetic acids produced by kombucha help to regulate blood sugar levels. Having the proper blood sugar levels can help you to regain lost energy and keep many other health factors in check.
When your blood sugar is at an optimal level, you can burn fat more efficiently and take advantage of the nutrients that are in your system.
Should You Use Kombucha to Lose Weight?
While there is no scientific evidence that kombucha works as a weight loss agent, there are many success stories and several correlations that may suggest that it can help.
If your goal is to lose fat and reduce your waistline, you can use kombucha as a safe supplement, but you shouldn’t rely on it as a miracle cure for obesity.
Kombucha has vitamins and nutrients that can contribute to health, so there is generally no harm in consuming the beverage unless you have other underlying health issues. If you have a history of alcohol abuse, liver damage, or diabetes, you should consult with your physician before using kombucha as a weight loss aid.
Much like any other so-called miracle cure, you can’t just drink kombucha every day and expect to have a 6 pack in a month. You must exercise regularly and follow a healthy, balanced diet. The best way to lose weight is to consume fewer calories than you expend on a daily basis.
If drinking kombucha can help you to reduce your cravings for unhealthy food, then it is perfectly safe to use as an aid. Just remember that kombucha alone is not going to help you reach your goals, but can be a very effective tool in your plan.
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