What exactly is Kombucha, besides another health drink, you ask. Well, I'll tell you! Kombucha has actually been around for for thousands of years and was called the "Immortal Health Elixer" by the Ancient Chinese. It is made from the fermentation of a mixture of sweetened tea (usually Black or Green tea) and a Symbiotic Colony of Bacteria and Yeast, or a SCOBY. It has been to known to be effective in reducing risks of certain health problems and promoting overall health. There's no question about the immunity boosting effects, detoxifying nature or energizing properties it has. Kombucha is rich an antioxidants and B vitamins, which explains the immunity boost and energizing effect. It's rich in many of the enzymes and bacterial acids that your body produces and/or uses to detoxify your body, which explains its detoxifying nature.
There also have been many other health claims about Kombucha that I read about recently. However, they are claims, meaning they have not been scientifically researched or proven in the U.S., at least not yet. Some of the claims include: cancer prevention because Kombucha is very high in Glucaric acid; joint care and strong prevention/treatment of all forms of arthritis because of it contains glucosamines; improved digestion due to the fact that it is a probiotic beverage; mental clarity and mood stability.
Overall even if the claims are not all true, (They could be though ; ) Perhaps they will be eventually studied and proven or disproved one day.) it still is a fantastic detoxifying and energizing beverage loading with probiotics, B vitamins and wonderfulness.
One tip, if you do decide to try it: make sure it is Raw Organic and produced in a sterile clean closed environment. Some brands I recommend are: GT's and Kombucha Brooklyn. There are definitely other brands that are great as well, just do your research! Same goes for if you want to make your own. : )
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Today I made a Blueberry Ginger Kombucha Smoothie. I think this actually my favorite and simplest smoothie to make. It wakes you up and energizes you for the day. Blueberries are also bursting with antioxidants and are a great supplier of fiber and Vitamin C! Below is the recipe for the smoothie.
Blueberry Ginger Kombucha Smoothie
1 Cup Fresh Blueberries
3/4 Cup Ginger Kombucha (GT's Organic Raw Gingerade Kombucha)
1 Cup Ice
Blend the blueberries, the Kombucha, and the ice in a NutriBullet or similar blending device; pour
into your favorite glass. Maybe grab a straw and enjoy!