Kombucha is a fermented beverage rumored to have been originally brewed in China over 2000 years ago. It is produced by fermenting a sugary tea using a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). The SCOBY is disc shaped and it sits on top of the beverage as it ferments. It converts the sweet tea into a slightly sour, fizzy and refreshing beverage. At the end of the fermentation process very little sugar remains in the drink. The finished kombucha contains a minimal amount of alcohol (around 1%) due to the fermentation process. Kombucha is sometimes referred to as mushroom tea because the SCOBY resembles a mushroom.
Some of the health benefits of consuming kombucha include:
1. Contains probiotics – Healthy bacteria for your digestive system.
2. Helps improve digestion.
3. Keeps your body alkaline – Helps maintain your body’s pH.
4. Contains glucosamines – These prevent and treat all forms of arthritis.
5. Boosts energy levels.
6. High in antioxidants – Helps your body deal with free radicals.
7. Can help heal ulcers – Attacks and destroys H. pylori (bad bacteria that can live in your stomach).
8. Increases metabolism.
9. Helps with liver detoxification.
10. High in glucaric acid – Studies have shown it helps prevent cancer.
11. Prevents candida overgrowth.
12. Gives your immune system a boost.
Kombucha is available at most health food stores. Here in Ontario I usually see the brands: Tonica Kombucha and GT’s Kombucha which both come in an array of delicious flavours.
Kombucha is also easy to make at home. You can grow your own SCOBY from a bottle of store bought kombucha. Directions on how to do this can be found online. This new SCOBY will continue to grow and produce kombucha. It will also produce a continuous supply of baby SCOBYs. The baby SCOBYs are great to share with friends so they can make their own homemade kombucha.
Kombucha has a acquired taste. You may need to try it a few times before you appreciate its unique flavour. Make sure you experiment with different brands and flavours to find the one you like best.
Next time you’re in your local health food store pick up a bottle of kombucha and enjoy this healthy drink. Cheers to kombucha!
Share in the comments your favourite flavour of kombucha.
To your health!
Jesse
I love kombucha…so sad Zehr’s quit carrying it.
I’m with you on that Maureen! Luckily Beets & Berries in Tecumseh carries a wide selection 🙂