FAQ's

All About Kombucha

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea beverage that has been consumed for centuries and is known for its health benefits. It is made by fermenting sweetened tea with a culture of bacteria and yeast, known as a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). The SCOBY metabolizes the sugar in the tea, producing various acids and trace amounts of alcohol, giving kombucha its slightly-sweet, slightly-tangy taste. It is a source of probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that can support gut health and digestion. Kombucha also contains antioxidants, b-vitamins and digestive enzymes.

What is "live" kombucha?

"Live" kombucha refers to kombucha that contains active and viable cultures of yeast and bacteria. The yeast and bacteria continue to ferment the tea after bottling, creating a beverage that is naturally carbonated and contains beneficial probiotics. The term "live" implies that the kombucha is unpasteurized and still contains active cultures, as opposed to kombucha that has been pasteurized, which kills off the cultures and results in a non-carbonated, less probiotic-rich beverage.

Kombucha benefits

Kombucha is a fermented tea that is rich in digestive enzymes, probiotics, vitamins, and amino acids. It also offers antioxidants and probiotics that support gut health and potentially lower blood sugar levels and contribute to a healthy microbiome.

How long does it take for Kombucha to ferment?

Kombucha fermentation typically takes between 7 to 14 days. However, the exact time can vary based on factors like temperature and personal taste preferences. During this period, the SCOBY consumes sugars in the tea, converting them into acids, carbon dioxide, and a bit of alcohol. Regularly taste the kombucha to achieve your preferred flavor profile. Once ready, you can bottle it for additional carbonation or refrigerate to slow down fermentation.

Is kombucha good for hangovers?

Some people believe kombucha can alleviate the symptoms of a hangover due to its probiotic content and antioxidants. Since kombucha is high in natural electrolytes, it can be a good post-drinking drink. Dehydration can play a role in hangovers, so hydrationis important, and since kombucha also contains other benefits to gut health, including some sugars, it can be more beficial than just water. Energy drinks can be a go-to hangover cure, but the downside is that they are high in sugar, so kombucha is a great, low-sugar alternative.

How do you pronouce Kombucha?

The word "kombucha" is pronounced kuhm-BOO-chuh. The emphasis is on the second syllable, "BOO."

Can I drink kombucha while pregnant?

While kombucha is a fermented beverage that contains beneficial probiotics, it is not recommended for pregnant women to consume it. Kombucha is made by fermenting tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) and it contains small amounts of alcohol and caffeine. The CDC advises pregnant women to avoid alcohol and limit their caffeine intake to less than 200mg per day. It is also worth noting that although Kombucha is made with tea, the fermentation process results in a small amount of alcohol, which can vary depending on the brand, and can be as high as 0.5% and a caffiene content of around 15mg per serving.

Is there caffeine in kombucha?

Yes, there is typically a small amount of caffeine in kombucha. The amount of caffeine can vary depending on factors such as the type of tea used in the fermentation process and the brewing time. Kombucha is typically made using black or green tea, both of which naturally contain caffeine. During the fermentation process, some of the caffeine is metabolized by the SCOBY (Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast) organisms.

However, the caffeine content in kombucha is generally lower compared to a cup of brewed tea or coffee. On average, an 8-ounce (240 ml) serving of kombucha contains about 10-25 milligrams of caffeine, while an 8-ounce cup of brewed coffee contains around 95 milligrams of caffeine. Nonetheless, it's important to note that the actual caffeine content can vary between different brands and homemade brews. If you're sensitive to caffeine - water kefir might be a better choice since it is naturally caffeine free.

When is the best time to drink kombucha?

The best time to drink kombucha is anytime! Kombucha is a fermented beverage that contains beneficial bacteria and enzymes, which can support digestion. Here are some specific situations where drinking kombucha can be particularly beneficial:

After a workout: Kombucha is rich in electrolytes, making it an excellent choice for a post-workout recovery drink. The electrolytes help replenish the body's hydration levels and support muscle function.
After a meal: The enzymes present in kombucha are highly effective in aiding the breakdown of nutrients. Drinking kombucha after a heavy meal can help alleviate digestive discomfort and improve gut symptoms. Additionally, these enzymes can enhance nutrient absorption, allowing you to derive more nutritional benefits from the food you consume.
Recovering from an illness: Kombucha contains probiotics, which help restore the balance of beneficial bacteria in the gut. This becomes particularly important after taking antibiotics, as they can disrupt the gut microbiome. Consuming kombucha during illness or after a course of antibiotics can assist in reseeding the gut with healthy bacteria and support overall gut health.
In summary, kombucha can be consumed at any time, and its benefits extend to various situations such as post-workout recovery, after meals to aid digestion, and during illness or after taking antibiotics to promote gut health. Cheers to enjoying kombucha whenever it suits you!

What is a scoby?

A SCOBY is an acronym for "Symbiotic Culture of Bacteria and Yeast." It is a slimy, rubbery, pancake-like substance that is used to ferment tea to make kombucha. The SCOBY contains a colony of bacteria and yeast that consume the sugar in the tea, producing lactic acid, acetic acid, and alcohol. These acids give kombucha its characteristic sour taste and also have antimicrobial properties that help to preserve the tea. The yeast in the SCOBY also produces carbon dioxide, which gives kombucha its fizzy texture. The SCOBY is also known as "Mother" or "Mushroom" due to its appearance.

How much kombucha is recommended in a day?

The recommended amount of kombucha to consume in a day can vary depending on individual factors and preferences as well as the acidity of the kombucha. However, a general guideline is to start with a small amount, such as 4 to 8 ounces (120 to 240 ml), and gradually increase the intake if desired. It's important to note that kombucha is a fermented beverage that contains live cultures and can have a slightly acidic nature. Some people may experience digestive discomfort or other side effects if they consume large amounts of kombucha with a low pH or have certain health conditions.

Is kombucha safe for children?

Kombucha is generally considered safe for adults to consume, but there is limited research on the safety of kombucha for children. Some experts recommend that children under the age of 18 should not consume kombucha because it contains small amounts of alcohol and caffeine, which can be harmful to developing bodies. Additionally, as kombucha is a fermented drink, it can contain trace amounts of alcohol, which can be problematic for children or people who are recovering from alcohol addiction.

FAQ

All About Water Kefir

What is Water Kefir

Water kefir is a fermented beverage made from water, sugar, and kefir grains. It is a non-dairy alternative to traditional milk kefir and is a popular choice for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer a dairy-free probiotic drink. Kefir grains used in water kefir are not actual grains but rather small, gelatinous, symbiotic clusters of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). When these kefir grains are added to a mixture of water and sugar, they initiate the fermentation process. During fermentation, the kefir grains consume the sugars, producing lactic acid, carbon dioxide, and a variety of beneficial bacteria and yeasts. The resulting water kefir has a slightly tangy and effervescent flavor, which can be further enhanced by adding fruit, herbs, or other flavorings during a secondary fermentation. This versatile beverage is not only a source of probiotics but also provides various vitamins and minerals.

Health benefits of ferments

Fermented foods and drinks, such as kombucha, kefir, sauerkraut, and yogurt, have many potential health benefits. Some of the most notable include:

Improved digestion: Fermented foods are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that help to improve the balance of gut bacteria and promote healthy digestion.

Boosted immunity: Probiotics can also help to strengthen the immune system by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.

Reduced inflammation: Some fermented foods, such as kimchi and sauerkraut, contain high levels of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.

Better nutrient absorption: Fermented foods can also help to improve nutrient absorption by breaking down food particles and making them more easily accessible to the body.

Weight management: Fermented foods may help to regulate appetite and reduce cravings for sugary or fatty foods.

Mental and emotional benefits: Some studies suggest that consuming fermented foods can help to improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety.

It's worth noting that not all fermented foods have the same health benefits and the probiotic strains present in a fermented food can vary. Also, the benefits may depend on the individual and it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before making significant changes to your diet.

Are water kefir and milk kefir the same thing?

No, water kefir and milk kefir are not the same thing. They are both fermented beverages made with different types of cultures.

Water kefir is made by fermenting sugary water with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast. The culture is typically made up of various strains of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts, and it is often referred to as "water kefir grains." The grains are added to a solution of sugar water and left to ferment for 24-48 hours. The finished product is a lightly effervescent drink that is slightly sweet and tangy.

Milk kefir, on the other hand, is made by fermenting milk with a culture of lactic acid bacteria and yeasts. The culture, known as "milk kefir grains," is added to milk, usually cow milk, and left to ferment for 12-24 hours. Milk kefir is a thick, creamy drink that has a sour, tangy taste, similar to yogurt.

Both water kefir and milk kefir are rich in probiotics, which are beneficial bacteria that promote gut health.

How to pronouce water kefir?

"KUH-feer" (or "kuh-FEER"): In this pronunciation, the emphasis is on the first syllable, and the "e" sound is pronounced like the "ee" in "see."

"KEH-feer" (or "keh-FEER"): In this pronunciation, the emphasis is on the second syllable, and the "e" sound is pronounced like the "eh" in "pet."

Both pronunciations are commonly used, and either one is generally understood when referring to the fermented milk or water beverage. The actual pronunciation may vary depending on regional accents and personal preferences.