People may have varying reactions to their first kombucha beverage. Some may take a sip and that’s it for them. For some, it’s the start of the many kombucha drinks to come. It may have something to do with the taste or how one’s body reacts to the drink. Regardless, kombucha is unquestionably one of the most sought-after beverages today due to the numerous health benefits it provides.
Kombucha is known for its sweet and tangy, refreshing taste. This probiotic-rich drink is very helpful for the digestive system, much like yoghurt and fermented foods. This is due to the fact that this gut-friendly drink is loaded with vitamin B, minerals, and organic acids. These organic acids have antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria. They also aid the liver in removing toxins. These acids are also known to help transport polyphenol, antioxidants that help lower inflammations in the body which causes illness and certain conditions, in the body. Aside from all these, kombucha is also known to help the body lower bad cholesterol and control blood sugar.
HOW MANY KOMBUCHAS SHOULD YOU TAKE?
Because kombucha is a fermented beverage, it contains alcohol, which is a by-product of fermentation. When yeast consumes sugar, it breaks it down into alcohol and carbon dioxide. Keep in mind that a kombucha’s alcohol content depends on how it is brewed. Commercial kombucha often contains less than 0.5% alcohol while homebrewed kombucha has about 3% alcohol content, or even higher. Kombucha also contains caffeine, but there are decaffeinated variants as well.
So just how much kombucha can we really consume?
FOR PEOPLE WHO NEVER HAD KOMBUCHA
If you’ve never had kombucha and are having second thoughts about it, starting with small amounts may be a good way to go. For those with sensitivity issues, the sources of your kombucha should always be considered.
People who are new to taking kombucha can start taking 4 oz or less each day and gradually increase this volume in time. It’s a way to see how the body would react to the drink. Some kombucha beginner drinkers have reported a detoxifying effect with mild symptoms — such as headaches or digestive inconvenience that goes away after a short while. Some people may find this tolerable, while others may not. So it’s best to listen to the body and see how it reacts.
FOR PEOPLE WITH DIABETES
Kombucha makes use of sugar, and the amount of sugar in a kombucha drink should be taken into consideration by diabetics. Those who need to limit their sugar intake can take kombucha diluted in water. And although some studies have found kombucha to help manage type 2 diabetes, it’s still important to check labels of kombucha for its sugar content.
FOR PREGNANT AND BREASTFEEDING WOMEN
Kombucha is an alcoholic drink. And since homebrewed kombucha contains higher levels of alcohol, pregnant and breastfeeding women should generally opt for commercially available kombucha. More importantly, it’s recommended to consult with a doctor before taking kombucha, as cases may vary from one person to another.
FOR PEOPLE WITH ORAL HEALTH ISSUES
Since kombucha is acidic and has high sugar content, taking high doses of it on a daily basis can have negative effects on one’s oral health. Bear in mind that acidic drinks can discolour and wear away the enamel that protects the teeth. To avoid this, it is better to drink kombucha in one sitting than sipping it little by little.
TRY IT FOR YOURSELF
Just as people have different reactions to kombucha, every kombucha drink is also unique. Anyone who is able to brew kombucha can drink it every day in small doses, no more than 8 ounces. Note that taking more than 12 oz a day can result in headaches, nausea, gastrointestinal distress, or ketoacidosis. It’s also best to read the labels on your drink to determine any ingredients that are not suitable for you. There are also those who shouldn’t drink kombucha for medical reasons and should stay away from this brew.
For newbies who want to go through their kombucha journey, never be discouraged on your first try. There’s a wide variety of these fermented products that are now available in the market and there’s always a kombucha for everyone.
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