Kombucha – A Living Food you just Have to Try!

What is Kombucha?

I was introduced to Kombucha later in my life, and was immediately fascinated and completely hooked. Once I tasted the rich, bubbly flavor of this probiotic-rich cultured tea and experienced for myself the amazing benefits, I couldn’t help but share it with anyone who was willing to listen. Most of the time, when I would ask others if they liked Kombucha, they would respond with something like, “What is Kombucha?”

Simply put, Kombucha is cultured or fermented tea which is created using a “mother” or SCOBY (Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast). “Symbiotic” means that the bacteria and yeast strains live together in a complex, mutually supportive community. That’s the magic of this delicious drink. At any given time, our bodies contain trillions of bacteria, both good and bad. Interestingly enough, bacterial cells in the human body outnumber human cells by about 10 to one. So technically, from a mathematical standpoint, you could arguably say that we are made up of about 90% bacteria and 10% human cells. It would stand to reason than that it would benefit us by taking care of the good bacteria in our bodies. Most of the time, the good bacteria far outnumber the bad bacteria and we feel good. Good bacteria help us with such processes as digestion, nutrient absorption, growth, immune system regulation, and brain function.

Unfortunately, we live in a culture and society where we do not support our good bacteria. Antibiotics, chemical substances, GMO foods, processed foods, stress, lack of sleep, refined flour, sugar, and salt all upset the balance in our bodies.

To regain that balance, there are some simple things we can do to support and sometimes help repopulate the good bacteria in our bodies. This includes daily consumption of Kombucha, Kefir, and cultured vegetables.

Why should I drink Kombucha?

Kombucha is rich in health-promoting vitamins (particularly B vitamins which support the body’s metabolic functions including overall energy), enzymes (particularly digestive enzymes which aid in the absorption of nutrients into the bloodstream), and antioxidants (which support immune system health).

Regular consumption of Kombucha supports the body’s natural balance and therefore may exhibit some of the following benefits:

1.  Detoxification: Kombucha contains Glucaric acid, which helps the body remove carcinogens, steroids, and toxins from the liver and some studies show that glucaric acid also helps lower lipids and regulate estrogen. Kombucha is rich in many of the enzymes and bacterial acids your body produces and/or uses to detox your system. As a result, when you start consuming Kombucha it is highly recommended that you start slowly as your body will immediately recognize the components of Kombucha and start a detox process. Everyone is different, but some report flu-like symptoms, acne, nausea, excessive body odor, metallic taste in the mouth, or fatigue. Just remember that this is not uncommon as your body tries to “dump” all those nasty toxins out of your system. Hang in there and keep it up. For most, this detox period only lasts a short time until your body gets back into balance.

2.  Aids in Digestion and Gut Health: Kombucha is rich in probiotic bacteria and yeast which aid the body in digestion, fighting candida (harmful yeast), curb cravings, improve mental clarity, and mood stability. There have been cases of Kombucha helping reduce and sometimes eliminate symptoms of fibromyalgia, depression, anxiety, IBS, constipation, and many other digestive disorders.

3.  Joints: Kombucha naturally contains glucosamines which increase synovial hyaluronic acid production in the body. Hyaluronic acid maintains tissue structure, moisture, lubrication and flexibility and lessens free radical damage. Kombucha has been known to help with symptoms of arthritis, sports injuries, and joint pain.

4.  Immune System Support: New studies are linking our immune system strength to the health of our gut. The more we support the bacteria in our gut, the stronger our immune system. Additionally, Kombucha is rich in anti-oxidants which bind to free radicals in our system.

As you can see, Kombucha is worth a try.  You can buy it commercially or brew it yourself after acquiring a “starter”.  It’s delicious, it’s good for you, and it’s so easy to add to your daily routines.  For more information on how to brew your own, check out our new eCourse by clicking here. Give Kombucha a try and let me know what you think.