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The Ultimate Guide to Gut Health: What It Is, Why It Matters, and How to Support It
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What Is Kombucha Good For? A Simple Guide to Taste, Pros & Cons
Kombucha is having a moment. It is one of the fastest growing drinks in the UK. But what exactly is kombucha, what does it taste like and why do some people say it gives them a little lift? Here is your simple guide.
What is kombucha
Kombucha is a fermented tea drink made from tea, sugar and a SCOBY, which is a culture of bacteria and yeast. During fermentation, the sugars break down and create natural fizz, tanginess and trace levels of alcohol, only in very small amounts. The result is a refreshing drink that is often flavoured with fruits or botanicals and sits somewhere between sparkling juice and iced tea.
What is kombucha drink good for
People enjoy kombucha for lots of lifestyle led reasons, including:
- A lower sugar alternative to soft drinks
- A way to include fermented foods in their routine
- Its sparkling, refreshing taste
- A bigger range of interesting flavours compared to standard sodas
- A non alcoholic option that still feels like a treat
If you are looking to reduce your intake of sugary fizzy drinks, energy drinks or fruit juices, our guide to the 7 Worst Drinks for Gut Health is a great place to start.
What does kombucha taste like
If you have never tried kombucha before, imagine:
- A lightly sparkling drink
- A tangy, slightly cider like flavour
- A gentle tea base
- A fruity or herbal twist depending on the flavour
Some kombuchas taste sweeter, some more sour and vinegary. If you prefer soft drinks, start with berry or tropical flavours. If you enjoy apple cider vinegar, you may prefer the sharper styles.
Is there a downside to kombucha
Kombucha is usually enjoyed in moderation, but here are a few things to know.
- It is naturally acidic, so some people prefer to drink it with food.
- Sugar levels vary by brand, so it can be helpful to check the label.
- It is a fizzy drink, which may not suit everyone.
- It contains trace amounts of alcohol because of fermentation, although commercial kombucha keeps this very low.
If you are curious about how your overall digestive wellbeing shows up day to day, our guide on the Signs of an Unhealthy Gut is a helpful place to learn more.
Why do i feel buzzed after drinking kombucha
Lots of people describe a slight lift after drinking kombucha. Here are a few possible reasons.
- There are naturally tiny amounts of alcohol due to fermentation, and some people are more sensitive to this.
- There can be a little caffeine left over from the tea it is made from.
- A sparkling, tangy drink can simply feel energising and refreshing.
If you are choosing kombucha as a lighter, non alcoholic swap, especially after nights out, you may also enjoy our blog on How to Restore Gut Health After Alcohol.
How much kombucha should you drink
There is no official rule, but many brands suggest around 150 to 250 ml per day. Most people simply enjoy it as they would a sparkling water or iced tea.
Should kombucha replace other gut friendly foods
Kombucha can fit alongside your usual routine, but it does not need to replace anything. If you want to support your gut through food choices, it usually works best to include a mix of fermented foods and fibre rich options across the week.
The takeaway
Kombucha is a fun, fizzy and fermented drink with a tangy flavour that lots of people enjoy. It comes in endless fruity and botanical flavours, from sweet to sharp, which makes it easy to find a style you love. Try a few, see what tastes best and enjoy it as part of a balanced lifestyle.
