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9 benefits of drinking more kombucha


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By now you may have noticed a pattern in the articles I write. For a period of time, I was really struggling with my digestion and was in a considerable amount of pain. No amount of Pepto-Bismol or tummy massages could appease the sharp, relentless pains in my ribs and abdomen.


I was then led on a hunt through the internet abyss. I found liquid chlorophyll, I found dates - which I wrote articles about - and I finally found the miraculous world of kombucha.


Kombucha is typically made from black or green tea but can be made by some naturally caffeine-free teas (like rooibos) for those with caffeine sensitivities.


The naturally carbonated beverage is made by fermenting a sweetened tea and feeding it with a culture of bacteria and yeast.


I turned to kombucha primarily for its digestive benefits but found a slew of others in the process. Here are 9 benefits of kombucha tea. You may have found your new morning ritual.


 

1. Natural Detox


Typically, when you hear the word detox, it’s safe to assume at least one of three organs are being affected: the pancreas, the liver, and the kidneys. Each plays a pivotal role in blood, breaking down of enzymes, and creation of necessary hormones. Glucaric acid, one of the primary components in Kombucha is responsible for the natural detoxification of the liver. Stock up on a couple of bottles before your next night out and your hangover will thank you.


2. Immunity


DSL (D-saccharic acid-1, 4-lactone) is an important antioxidant when it comes to building a strong immune system. During the fermentation process, this important antioxidant is present which contributes to the drink's ability to help raise your immunity and fight off common colds and cases of flu. Kombucha is also packed with probiotics and vitamin C which all boost your immune system and help fight damage at the cellular level.


3. Digestion


The high probiotic content of kombucha was the main reason I turned to it. Because of the fermentation process, it is also packed with enzymes and healthy acids which help in the healing of leaky gut syndrome, stomach ulcers acid reflux, and other digestive troubles. Candida, a common bacterium in the gut which is often overfed (which causes candida overgrowth) can be tamed and leveled out by the good bacteria found in Kombucha. It should be mentioned that kombucha is not a be-all-end-all cure to your tummy troubles but can often be a great addition to your routine when combined with medications or other interventions prescribed or suggested by your physician.


4. Energy


During kombucha’s fermentation process, iron is produced, which has been proven to provide long-lasting energy, without the crash that typically comes with coffee, soda, and other energy drinks. Iron is broken down slowly, meaning that it lasts longer in your system and keeps you energized all day. My daily kombucha replaced my morning coffee, and I haven’t looked back.


5. Metabolism


Studies have shown that those who consume kombucha regularly have experienced some weight loss due to increased metabolism and energy. The high acidity of kombucha promotes the same detox and cleansing properties as apple cider vinegar. Kombucha contains polyphenols that support weight loss. Some studies have even shown that kombucha has the ability to burn unhealthy fats in the body both externally and internally surrounding the organs.


6. Reduced joint pain


Both the aforementioned DSL and Vitamin C both have anti-inflammatory properties and have been shown to aid with joint pain and other ailments based in inflammation such as lupus. Glucosamine found in Kombucha increases the production of synovial hyaluronic acid which lubricates joints. Hyaluronic acid also aids in the production of collagen which may not only prevent arthritis but also help reduce the look of wrinkles and boost overall skin health.


7. May help prevent type 2 diabetes


Type 2 diabetes (or prediabetes), brought on by insulin resistance and high blood sugar levels affects 1 in 3 Canadians. Due to kombucha’s ability to improve kidney and liver function, it may also help in fighting type 2 diabetes or prediabetes. Kombucha has been proven to delay the breakdown of carbohydrates in the body which naturally reduces blood sugar levels.


8. May help fight cancer


Although research is limited, evidence suggests the polyphenols found both in some kinds of tea and therefore kombucha can stop certain cell mutations which cause some kinds of cancer. Glucaric acid, also found in kombucha has been shown to prevent some types of cancer such as breast cancer and pancreatic cancer.


9. May reduce heart disease


When it comes to heart health, the biggest culprit of complications is elevated levels of cholesterol. Kombucha has been shown to raise good cholesterol levels and lower the bad ones. In one study, it was shown that regular green tea drinkers were 31% less likely to develop heart disease. The hypothesis then would be that kombucha – which is tea-based – could likely have the same effects.


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