Kombucha - A Healthy Alternative to Soda

While kombucha has a history of nearly two thousand years, it is still regarded nowadays as a curiosity, as people are not entirely aware of its properties and benefits. Initially brewed in China, it spread to Russia and Japan, became known in Europe only in the 20th century, and gained popularity in the US at the beginning of the 21st century.

Kombucha is a sweet-and-sour beverage made from green or black tea, yeast, and sugar, going through a week-long fermentation process when acids and bacteria grow into the drink, as well as a very low amount of alcohol. The yeast absorbs most of the sugar, turning the mixture into a fizzy drink. All these ingredients form a symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (called a SCOBY), an essential part of fermentation that can either be made from scratch or obtained from a trusted source.

What Are the Probiotic Properties of Kombucha?

The initial aroma of kombucha is that of a tart green apple with a taste of deep stone fruits. And since that might be an acquired taste, it is good to know that various flavors can be added (through 100% organic juice) during a second fermentation stage – which can take up to one more week.

This beverage is low calorie and low sugar and contains antioxidants, amino acids, and enzymes. Due to the lactic-acid bacteria working as a probiotic and the fresh dose of B vitamins, kombucha has gained a reputation as a health drink that is said to relieve a wide range of conditions:

• Stabilizes the digestive tract – due to the presence of lactobacilli in kombucha, a prevalent type of probiotic, the digestive tract is stabilized, and further related issues may be improved – bloating, intestine inflammation, or irritable bowel syndrome.

• Improves gut health – through all its healthy bacteria with gastro-protective properties, also known as probiotics, kombucha can improve digestion and alleviate other digestive problems – abdominal distension, painful gastritis, gastroesophageal reflux.

• Decreases inflammation – chronic ailments caused by extended inflammation can be easily managed with the help of anti-inflammatory agents present in kombucha.

• Facilitates weight loss – kombucha regulates appetite by encouraging the production of satiety-related hormones, thus naturally reducing diet. It may also inhibit fat accumulation inside the body and speed up metabolism.

• Strengthens the immune system – the “good” bacteria in kombucha can boost the immune system, aiding energy levels and promoting a healthy gut microbiome.

• Helps with anxiety – the serotonin released when drinking kombucha may help with anxiety and overcoming mental health–associated symptoms (reduced energy levels, insomnia, poor concentration). Kombucha is also packed with B and C vitamins that might support the body in fighting depression, being the perfect natural mood booster.

Kombucha is the proper solution for cutting out unhealthy habits like regular consumption of sugary and chemically processed soft drinks and replacing them with an organic, nutrient-filled beverage that is as healthy as it is tasty.

Kombucha Is the Perfect Alternative to Sugary Beverages

Adopting new healthy habits that incorporate kombucha antioxidants and probiotics into your daily routine sounds like a great start for a new lifestyle focused on controlling sugar intake, developing a hydration practice, and generically promoting well-being. Due to the increased demand, kombucha products can be found worldwide in stores or online, in a wide assortment of flavors; there is even kombucha on tap for regular home use.

Consuming a healthy and delicious beverage with reduced sugar levels, carbs, and calories, is now a reality that can turn soft drinks into a thing of the past. Sugar contains an increased amount of empty calories, which are stored within the body when consumed in excess:

• Kombucha only has about 6g of sugar per cup.

• Fruit juice is made of natural sugar and has about 24g per cup, but it strips out most of the fiber in whole fruit and can still generate sugar-related issues.

• Sports drinks and soft drinks have a min. of 27 g and 38g of sugar per cup, inducing a temporary boost of energy that can lead to sleep troubles, dehydration, and anxiety.

Excessive sugar-sweetened beverage consumption can significantly affect a person’s metabolism and have damaging ramifications on both physical and mental health. The negligible sugar content in kombucha makes it the ideal soft drink replacement, as it does not negatively impact long-term wellness but instead promotes a positive overall quality of life.

About The Author

Jared Gustafson is the co-owner of Kombucha On Tap, a Southern California full-service distributor of delicious premium-quality products, including kegged kombucha, cold brew coffee, sparkling water, tea, and more. The healthy beverage distribution company was founded in 2014 and has become the preferred supplier of kombucha on tap to restaurants, coffee shops, bars, and even homes all throughout San Diego, Riverside, and Los Angeles Counties.