Pros and Cons of Kombucha

Kombucha is a black tea that’s fermented with a starter culture called Symbiotic Colony Of Bacteria And Yeast (SCOBY). SCOBY is commonly hyped as being a magic elixir. Regular consumers claim this tea potion aids in weight loss and improves digestion, serves as an anti-aging regimen, helps prevent cancers, improves liver function and supports overall immunity. However, like with many things, pros come with cons. Although this tonic is marketed for its health benefits, kombucha can also have negative side effects if consumed too frequently. Frequency and quantity are factors that individuals should consider when consuming kombucha.

Pros

  • High in vitamin B.
  • Rich in enzymes that may help detoxify the liver.
  • High in glucosamine that helps joints and prevent arthritis.
  • Rich in probiotics.
  • May aid in improving digestion.

Cons

  • Kombucha is not safe for consumption when someone is taking certain medications.
  • Kombucha should be avoided when pregnant or nursing.
  • If one has diabetes, suffers from alcoholism, or has a weakened immune system, kombucha should be avoided.
  • Consuming kombucha may cause allergic reactions, yeast infections, frequent head and neck pains and/or gastrointestinal disorders.
  • Consuming kombucha could lead to lactic acidosis and mythosis, both of which could affect muscle inflammation and the buildup of muscle acid leading to aches.
  • Although it is good for the gut, its high acidic content could cause stomach ulcers or heartburn, if consumed in excess.

The appropriate amounts of consumption of kombucha tea depends on several factors such as the consumers age, health and other conditions. Although, there are ongoing studies looking into the efficacy of drinking kombucha, and while we wait on the findings to be confirmed, for now health professionals warn consumers of kombuchas properties that have strong correlations with development of yeast infections and allergic reactions.

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