Kombucha tea is a beverage consumed in many Asian countries for thousands of years. Made with black or green tea, it has the health benefits of normal tea but is much healthier. Thanks to its probiotic content.
Discover what kombucha tea is, the process of making it and what are its benefits.
What is Kombucha Tea?
Kombucha tea also called simply kombucha, is a fermented beverage based on black tea or green tea with sugar. It is an infusion of sugary tea and a symbiosis of bacteria and yeast.
First, the tea leaves are boiled in water. Then after a few minutes, they are removed and sugar is added. It is then kept cool at room temperature. Later, an additional symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeasts, known as “kombucha mushroom,” adds to ferment it.
The taste of kombucha tea is a mixture between sweet and sour, becoming sour if left to ferment for a long time, and due to the fungus’s action, producing gas.
Note: if you want to keep the fungus for use on other occasions, you should leave it immersed in some of the tea you have already prepared.
7 Benefits of Kombucha Tea
Reduces the Risk of Cancer
Some scientists have found a strong relationship between daily consumption of kombucha in preventing cancer.
According to experts, these benefits are due to high polyphenols in the tea. Tea-derived polyphenols can inhibit genetic mutations, prevent the spread of cancer cells, cause cell apoptosis (cell death), and curb metastasis.
Likewise, drinking kombucha tea helps to prevent L-lactic acid deficiency which is usually present in cancer patients.
“In conclusion, regular consumers of kombucha tea have much less risk of developing cancer.”
It has Antimicrobial Properties
Thanks to its low pH value, in addition to the high content of acetic acid and other organic acids and catechins, kombucha tea has antimicrobial properties.
Many studies show its effects on certain types of pathogens, and the results are very promising. For example, regular use helps stop the growth and development of bacteria such as Helicobacter or Escherichia coli. These organisms cause digestive problems such as stomach ulcers or diarrhea.
But that’s not all! The acetic acid present in kombucha tea has antifungal properties, which means its use can help fight fungal infections.
In addition, it is also effective against several species of Candida yeasts, such as Candida albicans, responsible for vaginal infections in many women.
It is worth noting that the antimicrobial and antifungal effects of kombucha made with green tea are greater than those made with black tea.
Kombucha is Rich in Antioxidants
The main function of antioxidants is to fight free radicals. Free radicals cause aging and various diseases like heart disease, cancer, and Parkinson’s disease. Kombucha tea is high in antioxidant compounds such as polyphenols or catechins which can help get rid of free radicals and slow down several diseases.
Moreover, some studies in rats have shown that its consumption decreases liver toxicity by up to 70%.
It is a Probiotic Food
Probiotics contain living organisms that provide beneficial effects on the health of the host. Generally, probiotics are usually bacteria, although some fungi and yeasts can also act as probiotics. And numerous studies have proved their benefits in human health.
When we consume probiotic foods like Kombucha, we keep our intestinal flora balanced. Probiotics help fight various digestive disorders, treat colorectal cancer, improve immune function, promote weight loss, prevent urinary infections, and even reduce cholesterol levels.
Eliminates Toxins
Enzymes, bacterial acids, and other metabolites present in fermented kombucha tea help in the elimination of toxins and other toxic substances from the body.
According to scientific studies, kombucha tea acts similar to the chemicals that our body produces to eliminate toxins. This ability to detoxify and cleanse the body is due to the content of glucuronic acid.
Additionally, kombucha tea also helps to get rid of heavy metals or other contaminating substances present in the body through the kidneys.
Helps Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease
Some animal studies show that kombucha tea can reduce the risk of heart disease by reducing LDL cholesterol levels.
The high antioxidant content protects cholesterol from oxidation, another risk factor for heart disease. If it comes from green tea, the chances of developing heart disease reduce by up to 31%.
Kombucha is Suitable for Diabetic People
There is evidence from research in rats that have found that drinking kombucha tea can help improve diabetes by lowering blood glucose.
Although the results are very encouraging, more studies are needed to confirm the antidiabetic effects of kombucha tea.
BOTTOM LINE
Kombucha tea is a very healthy drink and can be added to your diet regimen. It has antioxidants and probiotic bacteria which offer you countless scientifically proven benefits.
