Kombucha is a fizzy sweet-and-sour drink made with tea. Many people say it helps relieve or prevent a variety of health problems, everything from hair loss to cancer. It has been around for nearly 2,000 years. It was first brewed in China and then spread to Japan and Russia. It became popular in Europe in the early 20th century. Sales in the United States are on the rise because of its reputation as a health and energy drink.
For those with chronic abdominal pain, bloating, gas, and constipation, getting a daily dose of probiotics is very beneficial in combatting your symptoms. Kombucha tea contains healthy bacteria and probiotics, and it has been promoted for centuries as a healing tonic for intestinal disorders and an overall booster of the immune system. Users of kombucha also claim the tea detoxifies the body and will help repair and balance the body after detoxification. Kombucha is made by fermenting sugar-sweetened black tea and the kombucha culture, which is made of yeast and bacteria. This elixir consumes the sugar and results in a fermented tea containing acetic acid, traces of alcohol, and beneficial bacteria.
Disclosure: Some people who have brewed their own kombucha have suffered serious and life-threatening side effects because preparation methods vary and the tea may contain contaminants such as molds and fungi. We recommend using premade and trusted products.
Check out our picks below:
Yogi Green Tea Kombucha
Why? Designed to support your immune system and provide antioxidants, Yogi combines spearmint, lemongrass, and plum flavor for a smooth tea with a light, fruity flavor.
Celestial Seasonings Original Kombucha
Why? This pure kombucha blend is simply made with organic black tea, unrefined cane sugar, purified water, and Celestial Seasonings unique kombucha culture.
GT’s Enlightened Kombucha
Why? Made with all organic ingredients—including whole chamomile flowers and peppermint leaves—this tea is a great after-dinner drink and can also help soothe an upset stomach.
Finally, it’s dairy-free, making it a good option for vegans and those who are lactose-intolerant as compared to kefir, another fermented beverage. Note: The fermentation process does produce very small amounts of alcohol (a bottled kombucha usually contains around 1%), which is pretty negligible but important to note for anyone specifically avoiding alcohol.