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Kombucha Myths Debunked
Kombucha, a fermented tea drink with a history stretching back thousands of years, has acquired its own set of myths and misunderstandings over time. Here we will talk about some of them.
Kombucha is a very popular fermented drink known because of its many qualities. It has antioxidants that fight harmful free radicals, supports natural detoxification, and promotes a healthy gut with its beneficial bacteria. What’s more, it’s easy to make at home, allowing you to experiment with flavours and fermentation times while enjoying the many potential health benefits.
Myths that we often hear when we talk about kombucha:
This is
not a myth.
1. Kombucha is an invigorating beverage
Many people find kombucha to be invigorating due to its refreshing and effervescent qualities. However, this invigoration is not primarily connected to the caffeine content in tea. It’s more related to the overall combination of the drink’s flavour, natural carbonation, and potential for mild stimulation from its caffeine content. Kombucha’s invigorating effects are typically milder than those of a cup of coffee, but some individuals do feel a sense of increased energy or alertness after consuming it.
This is
not a myth.
2. Kombucha is the perfect source of probiotics
The idea that kombucha is the “perfect” source of probiotics in comparison to all other fermented foods is a matter of debate. While kombucha does contain probiotics and has potential health benefits, it’s not necessarily superior to all other fermented foods in terms of probiotic content or overall health benefits. The choice of the best source of probiotics depends on individual preferences and health goals, and there are many other fermented foods that are also excellent sources of probiotics.
Kefir, for example, is often considered a more reliable source of probiotics as it contains specific strains of beneficial bacteria known to support gut health.
This is
a myth.
3. Kombucha has high levels of sugar
The sugar that you use for making kombucha is used up during the fermentation process. When fermentation is completed there is very little sugar left in it, about 2,5g in 250ml. In comparison, the same amount of cola contains about 30g of sugar.
Store-bought kombucha can vary in terms of sugar content and additives though, depending on the brand and specific product. Some store-bought kombuchas may have added sugars or artificial flavourings, while others prioritize natural ingredients and lower sugar content. It’s important to read the labels and ingredient lists to make an informed choice. Homemade kombucha allows for more control over the ingredients and fermentation process, making it a good option for those who want to limit sugar and additives.
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This is
a myth.
4. Kombucha has high levels of alcohol
Kombucha is a fermented beverage, and during the fermentation process, trace amounts of alcohol can be produced. However, commercially produced kombucha is generally required to have an alcohol content below 0.5% alcohol by volume (ABV) to be considered non-alcoholic.
Many alcoholic beverages like beer, wine, and spirits have much higher alcohol content, typically ranging from 3% ABV for light beers to 40% ABV or more for spirits. So, while kombucha does contain alcohol, it’s usually in very low concentrations and is not enough to cause intoxication. However, it’s essential to be aware of the alcohol content, especially for individuals who need to avoid alcohol completely for health or personal reasons.
The alcohol content in homemade kombucha can vary depending on several factors, including the fermentation time, temperature, and yeast activity. If the fermentation process is allowed to continue for an extended period or if the conditions are favourable for yeast to thrive, the alcohol content in homemade kombucha may rise slightly above the typical commercial threshold of 0.5%. You can measure the level of alcohol with a refractometer.
To wrap it up, when it comes to kombucha, there’s a mix of facts and myths. Some things people believe about this fermented tea are true, while others are not. Kombucha has a long history and can be good for you, adding a unique and tasty choice to your drinks. So enjoy fermenting it at home.
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