Kombucha is considered one of the healthiest beverages on earth. This fermented tea has been shown to restore gut flora, reduce belly fat, and improve blood lipid levels. Brewed with a live bacterial culture, it balances your microbiome and supports digestive function. In ancient China, kombucha was known as the immortal health elixir.

Brief History of Kombucha

This nutrient-dense beverage has been a staple of the Asian culture for thousands of years. It is made of black tea and sugar and contains beneficial yeast and bacteria. The first records mentioning kombucha date as far back as 220 B.C. Some say that this drink originated in Russia. Others trace its roots in China. Kombucha is highly prized for its health benefits. Made with a symbiotic colony of yeast and bacteria, it has been shown to help prevent and treat various conditions, from diabetes to cancer and cardiovascular problems. In general, home brews are consumed raw. Commercial brands are pasteurized to kill microbes. A 16-ounce bottle has about 60 calories, so it fits into any diet. Additionally, this beverage is an excellent source of B-complex vitamins, glucaric acid, probiotics, and antioxidants. Let’s take a quick look at its healing properties:

Improves Digestive Health

Rich in probiotics, this fermented beverage supports digestive health and balances gut flora. It’s a good source of Lactobacillus, Gluconacetobacter, Zygosaccharomyces, and other bacteria strains that benefit your body. The healthy bacteria and yeasts in kombucha may prevent inflammation, relieve bloating, and accelerate weight loss. Your immune system will become stronger too!

Relieve Diabetes Symptoms

Kombucha boasts high levels of phytonutrients and phytochemicals with antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory properties. According to researchers, these compounds may reduce diabetes complications, improve kidney and liver function, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Keeps Your Liver Healthy

Studies conducted on mice have found that kombucha has strong hepatoprotective and curative properties. This beverage can reduce liver toxicity by over 70 percent. In the long run, it helps prevent DNA damage, scavenges free radicals, and promotes cellular regeneration.

Supports Immune Function

Due to its high antioxidant levels, kombucha protects your cells from oxidative stress and boosts immune function. D-saccharic acid-1, 4-lactone, one of its key antioxidants, has been shown to decrease immuno-supression caused by free radicals. This healing beverage also provides large doses of vitamin C, which fights inflammation and supports immune health.

 Protects Against Heart Disease

Clinical research shows that kombucha has antilipidemic and hypoglycemic effects. When used as part of a balanced diet, this drink may lower LDL cholesterol and blood glucose levels, increase good cholesterol, and reduce heart disease risk.

The health benefits of kombucha are backed by science. This beverage is touted as a natural detoxifier and energy booster. Loaded with glucosamine, it eases arthritis pain and increases collagen levels in the body. Glucaric acid, one of its active ingredients, may help prevent cancer. Kombucha has also been linked to weight loss due to its high content of polyphenols and acetic acid. Just make sure you choose a brand with no added sugars or preservatives. Ideally, look for kombucha with less than five percent sugar.