Can kombucha make you sick

In this brief guide, we will address the query, “can kombucha make you sick?” We will also discuss how long kombucha lasts and what happens if you drink a lot of this beverage.

Can kombucha make you sick?

Yes, kombucha can make you sick. But this will only happen when it was poorly brewed or if a harmful bacteria has developed inside your beverage. The truth is that kombucha is an unpasteurized liquid, so it is susceptible to microorganisms.

Make sure you keep reading to find out about other interesting FAQs related to the subject at hand.

What is kombucha?

Kombucha has gained a lot of popularity in the last few years, but do you know what is it? Well, let’s start by saying that kombucha is a fermented drink, which means that a culture of bacteria and yeast was used to make it.

These microorganisms will eat the sugar to then convert it into ethanol and acetic acid. These compounds are responsible for their alcoholic content and sour flavor, respectively. 

So, imagine combining this mixture with some black or green tea, let me introduce you to the kombucha experience.

Also, several health benefits have been associated with the consumption of this beverage, such as

  • Kombucha contains different probiotic cultures. This beverage is a product of a fermentative process, which means that you will find important quantities of probiotic microbes in kombucha. They have been associated with various benefits.
  • Provide antioxidants. What antioxidants do to the human body is provide them with tools to reduce the aging effects, resulting in oxidative damage.
  • Provide vitamins and minerals. Kombucha contains different nutrients, and various vitamins are included.
  • Antifungal. Kombucha is made with acid acetic, known for its low pH, which causes microbes to not develop normally. This will promote that the only microorganisms found in your beverage are beneficial for you.

Not all people enjoy its unique flavor, tell me, do you like kombucha?

How is kombucha made?

Making kombucha is not exactly an easy process, but is not impossible. You can even prepare kombucha at home by following several steps. The Denver Post has created an excellent method to prepare kombucha, you can check it out here.

You only need to get a few ingredients and you are ready to go. All you need to have is

  • A glass container.
  • Purified water.
  • Some sugar.
  • A few bags of your favorite tea.
  • Kombucha SCOBY.
  • Starter liquid (previously made kombucha).
  • Cloth to cover the jar.
  • Rubber band.

What are the side effects of drinking too much kombucha?

Many people may have no consequences when drinking kombucha, but some can experience unwanted side effects. Some of the factors that should make you reduce your consumption of kombucha are

  • Upset stomach. If your body is not a fan of kombucha some nausea, vomiting, and gas can occur. People’s guts might react badly.
  • High in calories.  Kombucha can exhibit different additives that will improve its flavor. But the most additives, the most calories as well. 
  • A lot of added sugars. The probiotic cultures contained in kombucha need a carbon source to survive and keep growing, which is why sugar is constantly added. Also, for taste purposes, some manufacturers can add juices or fruits. 
  • High acidity. To make kombucha, acetic acid is needed. This compound when consumed in high quantities can cause severe damage to your teeth.

How do you safely consume kombucha?

As you can tell, although kombucha exhibits different health benefits, so do risks. The key to enjoying this drink without risks is to follow certain guidelines that have been proven to improve your kombucha experience.

  • Choose kombucha stored in glass containers. These containers can be washed before using them, making them safer.
  • Look for pasteurized kombucha. The process of pasteurization can prevent a lot of trouble. If you are worried about the probiotics cultures being lost, do not worry. Some manufacturers tend to add more microbes after this process. Get further guidance on this subject here.
  • Do not exceed 8-ounce servings per day. This is the maximum concentration of kombucha you can consume, try to avoid drinking more.

Can you make kombucha at home?

Most people prefer to control what they are eating or drinking. So, if you want to reduce the amount of added sugars, or colorants, it is a good idea to prepare kombucha at home.

Also, there are so many recipes on the Internet to do so. Make sure you check the recipe provided by Live Eat Learn, you will not regret it. Please tell us if you make it and if you enjoy it!

Other FAQs about Tea that you may be interested in.

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Conclusion

In this brief guide, we have addressed the query, “can kombucha make you sick?” We have also discussed other queries related to the subject at hand. 

Hope you found this blog useful. If you have any questions, please let us know.

Citations

https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/health-benefits-kombucha

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/kombucha-side-effects

https://growyourpantry.com/blogs/kombucha/can-kombucha-make-you-sick

https://www.thespruceeats.com/kombucha-health-elixer-or-poison-765066