What are the nutritional facts, potential health benefits, and risks of drinking kombucha tea?
### Nutritional Facts of Kombucha Tea
Kombucha tea is rich in B vitamins, including thiamine, riboflavin, and vitamin B12. It also contains vitamin C and other antioxidants. A single serving of kombucha tea provides well over 100% of your recommended daily allowance of vitamin B12.
### Potential Health Benefits
1. **Digestive Health Improvement**: Kombucha contains probiotic bacteria that can help improve digestive health.
2. **Liver Toxicity Reduction**: Studies on rats show that kombucha can reduce liver toxicity. More research is needed to confirm this in humans.
3. **Antimicrobial Properties**: Kombucha contains acetic acid, which can kill harmful bacteria. It may be effective against Candida yeasts.
4. **Type 2 Diabetes Management**: Kombucha made from green tea may help manage or prevent type 2 diabetes by reducing blood sugar levels.
5. **Cancer Risk Reduction**: Test-tube studies suggest kombucha may help prevent the growth of cancer cells, but more research is needed.
6. **Weight Loss Promotion**: Green tea kombucha may help with weight loss by increasing calorie burn.
### Potential Risks
1. **Pregnancy Concerns**: Kombucha contains live bacteria and may be unpasteurized, posing risks during pregnancy.
2. **Over Fermentation or Contamination**: Home-brewed kombucha can over-ferment or become contaminated.
3. **Nutrition Issues for People with Diabetes**: Many kombucha drinks have added sugars, which can be problematic for people with diabetes.
4. **Potential Dental Issues**: The acidity of kombucha can weaken tooth enamel and cause discoloration.