Possible Health Benefits
Kombucha is a fermented beverage commonly made with sweetened black or green tea, a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), and gluconic acid. In studies conducted over the last decade, Kombucha has been shown to slow down the digestion of carbohydrates thereby, reducing blood sugar levels. Invitro studies have demonstrated Kombucha's high concentration of polyphenols and antioxidants may prevent the spread of cancerous cells.
Why Do We Need Bacteria?
The human gut is inhabited by billions of microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, fungi, and more! These microorganisms play a vital role in the metabolism of nutrients, the immune system, and in maintaining the integrity of the gut wall. There is an estimated 500-1000 bacterial species in the human gut alone.
Kombucha's potential to benefit gut health
The SCOBY used in Kombucha typically contains a mix of various bacterial and yeast strains including Acetobacter, Saccharomyces, Brettanomyces, Lactobacillus, Pediococcus, Gluconacetobacter, and Zygosacharomyces. Kombucha may be included into a balanced diet as a probiotic, aiding to preserve gut health.
Alcohol Content
Kombucha contains some alcohol as a biproduct of the fermentation process and contains trace amounts as a result. One serving size beverage may contain between 0.5-2.0% ABV.
Sugar Content
Depending on the maker, Kombucha's sugar content can range from 2-20 grams of added sugar. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a diet for Americans 2 years and older should contain less than10% of added sugar per day. Based on a 2000 calorie diet, Americans should consume no more than 200 calories (50 grams) of sugar per day.
The Market Sells Kombucha!
The Catonsville Cooperative Market carries Hex Ferments and Wild Bay Kombucha. Hex ferments is a Maryland-based company that uses 100% renewable energy and employs traditional methods of making their unpasteurized fermented kombucha. Wild Bay Kombucha is a local company that is based out of northwest Baltimore and are a proud supporter of the Chesapeake Bay Foundation. A portion of the proceeds from every bottle sold by Wild Bay goes towards the protection of the Chesapeake Bay Watershed.