• Source:JND
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Kombucha Benefits For Weight Loss: Kombucha is a fizzy, tangy, fermented drink, which is made from tea, sugar and SCOBY i.e., the symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast. During fermentation, SCOBY consumes the small amounts of sugars that are added and produces probiotics, organic acids and enzymes that support gut health. This is a great swap from a high sugar fizzy drink and is loaded with a good amount of beneficial probiotics, which include gut-friendly live bacteria and yeast, and a decent amount of amino acids, vitamin C, B2, B6, acetic acid, lactic acid, and antioxidants.

In a conversation with Jagran English, Ms Deepti Khatuja, Head- Clinical Nutritionist, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, Gurgaon explained the benefits of kombucha for weight loss.

Kombucha Benefits For Weight Loss

According to Dr Khatuja, although enough studies are not available more research is needed to find the impact of kombucha in weight loss. However, some possible theories that can explain its beneficial impact on weight loss are -Since it is low in calories it is a perfect swap for high added sugar sodas and juices making it a healthier choice. Due to low calories, it helps in managing the calorie content and thus prevents excess calorie intake leading to overweight or obesity.

The probiotics present in kombucha support gut health by helping to improve digestion and nutrient absorption which is important for weight management. Apart from low calorie and probiotics, polyphenol content present in kombucha protects cells from oxidative stress which helps detoxifying toxins and thus helpful in weight loss.

Kombucha Benefits For Weight Loss (Image Credits: Canva)

However, some studies on worms suggested the impact of microbes in kombucha on metabolism and found that the yeast and the bacteria create metabolic changes in the worm’s intestines, which are similar to those that occur during fasting. The microbes further alter the expression of genes involved in fat metabolism, leading to more proteins that break down fats and fewer proteins that build a type of fat molecule called triglycerides. However, more studies are needed on humans for a better understanding of kombucha's weight loss effects.

Thus, eating a healthy balanced diet is the key to maintaining good health/ weight management along with a good healthy lifestyle which includes a balanced diet, and regular physical activity for 30-45 mins. and stress management as no single food has all the nutrients to meet individual requirements. Hence taking kombucha in limited amounts can be helpful but should not be taken in excess to reduce weight and more research is needed in this area.