Dr. Becky Maes - Is It Bad For You? Approved by Dr. Becky Maes

Is Kombucha Bad For You?

Also Known As: kombucha tea


Grade

N


Short answer

Due to lack of scientific evidence, Kombucha tea cannot be deemed good or bad for your health. However, many consume the beverage worldwide and seem to be just fine - even having reported various health benefits.

Grade

N


Long answer

Due to limited research, Kombucha tea seems to fall within that proverbial “grey area” in regard to either being bad for your health or the next miracle cure fad. Since Kombucha tea consists of a colony of bacteria and yeast that is fermented for up to 10 days, there’s an elevated risk of contamination that can be caused from being exposed to spores in the air during the brewing process. In the event a contaminated culture is consumed within tea, it could be lethal according to at least one supplier of exotic mushrooms who studied the pharmaceutical properties of Kombucha.

On the other hand, claims have been made by individuals drinking Kombucha tea that it has improved their eyesight, carpal tunnel symptoms, and cured psoriasis. Some even refer to Kombucha as a "magical elixir" in which can prevent cancer, strengthen the immune system, and promote digestion. Furthermore, some turn to Kombucha tea as an external pain reliever when applied directly to the skin.

Since the jury is still out waiting for evidence regarding these health claims, and several cases of adverse effects have been reported, many health-care providers advise not consuming more than 4 ounces daily of store-bought pasteurized Kombucha tea. Pregnant women, children, the elderly, or anyone with a weakened immune system should avoid the beverage entirely.


Possible short-term side effects

  • nausea
  • diarrhea
  • infection
  • possible allergic reaction

Possible long-term side effects

  • irritable bowel syndrome

Ingredients to be aware of


Big is kombucha bad for you.

Benefits

  • possible benefits:
  • strengthened immunity
  • cancer prevention
  • improved digestion
  • improved liver function
  • improved memory retention
  • fight pms symptoms
  • fight joint pain



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Written by Rachel Adams | 12-28-2015

12-28-2015
Written by Rachel Adams
Suggest improvement or correction




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