In This ArticleView AllIn This ArticleKombucha NutritionHealth Benefits of KombuchaIs Kombucha Good for Weight Loss?What to Look For When Buying KombuchaFAQs
In This ArticleView All
View All
In This Article
Kombucha Nutrition
Health Benefits of Kombucha
Is Kombucha Good for Weight Loss?
What to Look For When Buying Kombucha
FAQs
Kombucha—the fizzy, tangy, fermented beverage that’s been all the rage for gut health—is gaining a reputation for its potential weight-loss benefits. But what exactly is kombucha? It’s a fermented drink made from tea, sugar and asymbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). During fermentation, the SCOBY consumes the sugar and producesprobiotics, organic acids and enzymes that support gut health. These components are what experts say provide kombucha’s potential effects on weight loss.
Here, we consulted a registered dietitian to explore kombucha’s health benefits, find out what to look for when purchasing kombucha, and discover whether kombucha lives up to its hype around weight loss.
Homemade Kombucha
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Kombucha’s nutrition varies depending on the product. Also, flavored kombucha often contains more added sugar than unflavored or homemade kombucha. Here’s the nutritional profile of an 8-ounce serving of kombucha tea, according to theUSDA FoodData Central.
Promotes Gut Health
“Certain types of kombucha have been linked to improved gut health in animal models,” says registered dietitian and nutrition writerBrittany Lubeck, RD. “Inone study, kombuchas from green and black tea were associated with favorable growth of beneficial gut bacteria, leading to a more balanced gut microbiome. These results were thought to be due to phenolic compounds found in kombucha.”
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Possesses Antimicrobial Properties
Kombucha’s fermentation process produces acids likeacetic and lactic acid, which possess antimicrobial properties. These acids helpinhibit the growth of harmful bacteriaand yeasts, making kombucha a naturalantimicrobial agentthat supports a healthier immune system.
“Antimicrobial agents are created during the fermentation process of kombucha. These antimicrobial properties are thought to be useful against a wide range of bacteria and fungi. However, little human research exists on this subject, so we only know about these potential benefits through lab studies,” explains Lubeck.
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Supports Liver Health
“Kombucha may be good for your liver, but the jury is still out on how effective the fermented drink is,” states Lubeck. “According toone animal study, kombucha tea may protect liver cells from toxicity and even help with inflammation and fibrosis of the liver. Human trials should be conducted to support this research better.”
“There’s some anecdotal evidence that kombucha can help with weight loss, but there isn’t any scientific evidence to back this up,” says Lubeck. “Kombucha may or may not aid in weight loss, but it can certainly be a part of a healthy diet. Remember that no single food or drink can cause weight loss. Nothing beats a well-balanced diet for general health.”
Store-bought brands often add sweeteners to their kombuchas, which can have negative effects on your health and weight-loss goals over time if consumed in excess. Look for options with minimal added sugars or products that use 100% fruit juices for flavor.
“Anyone can make kombucha these days, so it’s important to buy kombucha from a reputable brand,” advises Lubeck. “Look for kombucha that isn’t full of added sugar and other unnecessary ingredients. The simpler the better.”
The Bottom Line
Kombucha, a fermented beverage made from tea, sugar and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), has gained popularity for its potential weight-loss benefits. While scientific evidence is lacking, kombucha is low in calories and contains probiotics that support gut health, digestion and nutrient absorption. Its detoxifying properties and antioxidant content may also assist in weight-loss efforts. However, choosing reputable brands with minimal added sugars and other added ingredients is important when purchasing kombucha. Ultimately, kombucha can be a part of a healthy diet, but it’s essential to adopt healthy lifestyle habits for overall health andweight management.
What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Kombucha Every Day
Frequently Asked Questions
Kombucha is generally safe to enjoy daily if consumed in moderation. According to theCleveland Clinic, this amount is 4 ounces per day. However, always be mindful of added sugars and potential alcohol content in some varieties. If you have specific health concerns or are on certain medications, consult your health care provider to ensure drinking kombucha daily is safe for you.
No, kombucha doesn’t have special cleansing properties. Your body has an incredible natural detoxification system that uses your liver and kidneys to eliminate toxins and waste products from your body. Instead of relying on expensive “detox” products, consider focusing on a balanced diet,drinking plenty of waterand exercising regularly to support your body’s natural detoxification processes.
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