What is Kombucha Good For?

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What exactly is Kombucha?

Though Kombucha may be very new to many of us, it’s actually an ancient Chinese remedy once used to ward off ailments such as arthritis and cancer. Simple put, it’s a fermented tea that is packed with probiotics (healthy bacteria or microorganisms) that our bodies need and can benefit from. Fermentation is the same process used to make beer and wine. You usually find little sentiments at the bottom of Kombucha which is normal however Kombucha is carbonated so you should ever shake it. Additionally, due to the nature of Kombucha most of them need to be drank within 7 days of opening.

Kombucha comes in many different flavors, ranging from spicy cayenne ginger to sweet mango. Because Kombucha is fermented like beer and wine, it does have a small alcohol content, usually less than 0.5% of alcohol. If you happen to come across a Kombucha that has a higher alcohol content you’l probably have to show some ID. Also, it’s carbonated like a soda but not as bubbly in my opinion.

What is Kombucha good for?

Kombucha is most loved for being packed with probiotics (the healthy bacteria we were talking about), similar to that found in pickles, some cheeses and even sauerkraut. Probiotics are key to helping with digestive health and have even been said to help aid skin, depression and heart health.

Why I drink it?

To be completely candid with you, my digestive system sucks. Some months I’m regular and other months it seems like my food just sits on my stomach and doesn’t go anywhere. That was actually the reason why I gave up meat and went pescatarian for a few months. This has always been struggle of mine and I’ve been determined to find a solution. A probiotic drink seemed like it couldn’t hurt(it didn’t). Between drinking more water and Kombucha, over the past couple of months I have seen improvement in my digestive system, mainly my regularity if you know what I mean.

Another, confession I LOVE soda. I know I shouldn’t but it’s so addictive. After the summer with all the brunch and happy hour invites, I got hooked on soda for the millionth time. Kombucha has help me cut the craving because it is carbonated and sweet however it’s actually good for me (as far as I know). Anytime I think about running to the corner store to get a soda I take a sip of Kombucha instead. For the reason alone, my house will never be without Kombucha (or carbonated water for that matter).

Would I recommend it?

Absolutely. Even if you don’t have many digestive issues it’s much better to drink than soda or sugary juices. At least try it to form your own opinion on it. I will admit it is an acquired taste and you should never smell it before drinking. It kind of smells like apple cider vinegar (also fermented) if you’re curious.

I’ve mainly purchased Kombucha in Target and Trader Joe’s but you can find it in most grocery stores, deli’s or anywhere bottled health drinks are sold.

Let me be the first to tell you (if you haven’t been told already.) Kombucha can be quite expensive. Depending on where you purchase it, a bottle can cost you anywhere from $2.49 to upward $5. If I had to take a wild guess, I’d say I’ve probably tried about 12-15 different Kombucha flavors amongst 5 or so brands. Here’s a quick list of some of my favorites that I tried thus far. Prices vary based on store on location.

Simply Balanced by Target Mango

Of all the Kombucha’s I’ve tasted this one is the sweetest and almost tastes like a natural mango soda. I wonder if it has as much probiotics as other ones with a stronger Kombucha taste?