You may have noticed the growing popularity of kombucha in health food stores, grocery stores, and even coffee shops. This fermented black tea is known for its benefits to digestion, energy levels, and overall wellness. It’s also an excellent tool to aid weight loss efforts, without relying on potentially dangerous weight loss supplements. So, before diving into dubious diet aids, give kombucha a shot alongside a nutritious meal plan.
The Wonder Tea
Kombucha is made from fermenting black tea, sugar, and bacteria. The not-so-appetizing mixture provides benefits that will make you a believer and a regular consumer.
Dating back to ancient China, kombucha has a long history of being used as a remedy for various health issues, from arthritis relief to cancer treatment. It is also believed to boost weight loss and help you achieve the body shape you desire by:
1. Nurturing a healthy gut
As one of the richest sources of probiotics, kombucha contains potent levels of gluconacetobacter, acetobacter, lactobacillus, and zygosaccharomyces. These substances help repopulate your gut with good bacteria, maintain regular bowel movements, enhance digestion, and support your body’s food processing capabilities.
2. Aiding detoxification
Kombucha serves as an antioxidant, with active components that help cleanse your liver and clear out waste. Combined with the beneficial bacteria that kombucha provides, it can help you kick-start a healthy diet and weight loss journey.
3. Boosting energy levels
Kombucha offers an energy boost that can accelerate your fitness goals. Loaded with B vitamins that combat fatigue and afternoon energy slumps, it also contains iron. The iron in kombucha aids your red blood cells in delivering more oxygen to your muscles and brain, making you feel more alert and energetic.
Altogether, kombucha’s benefits are unquestionable, and several studies have reported positive weight and appetite changes when incorporating it into a diet.
Sourcing and Brewing Kombucha
To make your own kombucha, use a unique starter kit available online. However, beginners and those unfamiliar with home brewing or fermentation might find the process challenging and should purchase kombucha from a store. Bottles of kombucha cost between $3 to $5 and are available in a variety of flavors.
While natural kombucha can be sour, you may want to sample a few different brands and flavors to find one that appeals to you. But take note that sweeter flavors are likely to contain more sugar. To control sugar intake, stick to lemon, lime, or ginger varieties.
Due to its fermentation, kombucha contains small amounts of alcohol. Properly prepared kombucha will have a natural alcohol content of less than 0.5 percent. To avoid further fermentation and alcohol production, store kombucha in a cold refrigerator.
It’s recommended to consume only about four ounces of kombucha daily to prevent stomach discomfort. If brewing your kombucha at home, research and adhere to safety guidelines for preventing foodborne illnesses. As with most fermented or homemade drinks and foods, pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems should avoid kombucha.
By incorporating kombucha into your daily routine, you can kick-start your weight loss journey and feel better, naturally, and more energetic. So, pick up a bottle of kombucha today and begin your path to a healthier lifestyle.
