Kombucha is a popular beverage that typically has a fizzy sweet flavor. Found at most grocery stores, this drink is not just popular for its flavor. Many people think that it tastes a bit like a sour beer or a Belgium lambic but kombucha is fermented tea that is full of health benefits! Here are some things you might not have known about kombucha.

1. To make kombucha requires a scoby. What exactly is a scoby? A scoby is an acronym for Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast. If you have ever seen one then you will know it is a slimy firm puddle of substance that is actually the essential starter for making kombucha. It sits on the top of kombucha to protect it from outside bacteria entering it and potentially impacting the fermentation process. The floating egg white textured part you might have found in your kombucha drink is an early stage scoby! This is an essential part of the process to make kombucha and on average takes about 2- 4 weeks to fully grow one from scratch. It is full of live probiotics and can even be eaten separately, although cooking will destroy much of the health benefits.

2. In addition to antioxidants found in kombucha because of the tea, you will find this beverage full of healthy bacteria or probiotics! Probiotics are considered a functional component of food because they promote healthy bacteria or microflora in your intestines to grow. Komucha is full of live cultures that that can help change or reintroduce healthy bacteria into the intestines. These cultures have some evidence that they support healthy immune function and help to maintain “good bacteria” in your intestines. Sometimes probiotics are used to prevent some allergy symptoms, shorten the length of diarrhea, reduce your risk of some cancers, and reduce the effects of intestinal issues.

3. Kombucha can be used as a healthy drink mix! The sour flavor of this drink will add the zest and fizz to your cocktail concoctions. Just use it in place of juice or drink mix, the many flavors available of kombucha can make up for many different drink flavors including ginger, lime, cucumber, raspberry, almond, and more! Even just a splash in your vodka sodas can make your favorite drink a new treat!

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