Kombucha: What It Is, How It’s Made, and Why You Might Want to Drink It

Dr Ron Van As
Jun 29
3 min read

Kombucha is becoming more popular in health food stores, cafes, and even homemade kitchens. But what exactly is it? Is it really good for you? And should everyone be drinking it?

Here’s a simple breakdown of everything you need to know.

What Is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea drink made using tea, sugar, and something called a SCOBY—a Symbiotic Culture Of Bacteria and Yeast. It has a fizzy, slightly tangy taste, and comes in many flavors like ginger, lemon, berry, and more.

How Is Kombucha Made?

The process is surprisingly simple:

Brew sweet tea – black or green tea with sugar.
Add the SCOBY – this "living pancake" of bacteria and yeast kicks off fermentation.
Let it ferment – usually for 7 to 14 days.
Bottle and flavor (optional) – you can add ginger, fruits, or herbs and let it ferment a little longer to create natural fizz.

During fermentation, the SCOBY consumes the sugar and creates:

Beneficial acids
Probiotics
B-vitamins
A tiny amount of alcohol

What Are the Benefits of Drinking Kombucha?

Many people drink kombucha for its health benefits, including:

✅ Gut HealthKombucha is rich in probiotics which may help balance your digestive system.

✅ Boosted ImmunityA healthy gut supports a strong immune system.

✅ Detox SupportKombucha contains glucuronic acid, which may help your liver process and remove toxins.

✅ Increased EnergyThanks to small amounts of caffeine and B-vitamins.

✅ Reduced InflammationSome compounds in kombucha, like polyphenols and antioxidants, may help reduce chronic inflammation.

Are There Side Effects?

Yes—especially if you're new to fermented foods or drink too much.

⚠️ Possible side effects:

Bloating or gas (due to probiotics)
Mild upset stomach
Excess caffeine sensitivity
Too much sugar if store-bought versions are overly sweet

Can Anyone Drink Kombucha?

Most healthy adults can enjoy kombucha in moderation. However, it's not suitable for everyone.

Is There Alcohol in Kombucha?

Yes, but very little.Most commercial kombucha has less than 0.5% alcohol, which is classified as non-alcoholic. However, homebrewed or improperly stored kombucha can have higher levels.

Who Should Avoid Kombucha?

You should avoid kombucha if you:

❌ Are pregnant or breastfeeding

❌ Have a compromised immune system

❌ Suffer from histamine intolerance

❌ Are sensitive to caffeine or alcohol

❌ Have had issues with candida or yeast overgrowth

❌ Are taking medications that interact with fermented foods

Always check with your doctor if you’re unsure.

What Medical Conditions Might Kombucha Help?

While kombucha is not a cure, some research and anecdotal evidence suggests it may support people with:

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Leaky Gut Syndrome
Constipation
Fatty liver
Low immunity
Mild depression or anxiety (due to gut-brain connection)

Final Thoughts

Kombucha can be a tasty, fizzy, and gut-friendly drink when consumed in moderation. However, it’s not a miracle cure, and it’s not for everyone.

✅ If you’re healthy, try a small glass to see how your body responds.

❌ If you have health conditions, ask your doctor first—especially if pregnant or immunocompromised.

Tip for Beginners:

Start with 100-150 ml per day and observe how your body reacts. Choose kombucha with low added sugar and avoid brands with artificial ingredients.