Kombucha has been around for a long time, especially in the Far East where it originated some 2000 years ago. Kombucha is a fermented drink which offers several health benefits.

At the Whistler Farmers Market, we have two great kombucha vendors; Spark Kombucha based in Squamish and Whistler Elixir based in Whistler. Check out our market maps to see when these kombucha vendors will be at the Whistler Farmers Market.

What is Kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea made from black tea and sugar from fruit, honey or sugar, although it can also be made with green tea. The beverage contains a high degree of healthy bacteria and yeast as it’s made through fermentation. Kombucha becomes carbonated after fermentation takes place with a high concentration of acetic, gluconic and lactic acids, probiotics, and vinegar. A Symbiotic colony of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) is used to kick-start the fermentation process. Kombucha offers a wide range of health benefits and is a refreshing drink. Here are some of the benefits of kombucha

Can Protect Against Several Diseases

Research shows that kombucha is loaded with a large number of antioxidants which can protect the body against free radicals and diseases. Antioxidants help fight inflammation, a major risk factor for several diseases including depression, heart disease, cancer, Alzheimer's, Crohn's and others. Kombucha also helps detoxify the body.

The process of fermentation helps synthesize antioxidants which are not present in black tea naturally.

Rich in Gut-Friendly Probiotics

Kombucha is known to be an excellent beverage for improving digestion due to its high probiotic content. Kombucha is also rich in enzymes, amino acids, and acids which are beneficial to the digestive system.

Studies, like this one, demonstrate that kombucha can help prevent and heal stomach ulcers. It’s also known to help control candida infections and promote the growth of healthy gut microbiome, improve digestion, prevent inflammation, and even enhance weight loss.

Promotes Mental Health

Kombucha is rich in vitamin B12, a compound which is an excellent energizer and mental function booster. Also, kombucha can help optimize mental health by improving your gut health. The gut is intricately connected to the brain via an extensive neural network. If the gut is unhealthy, the brain also suffers. By helping to keep the gut healthy and functional, kombucha helps prevent inflammation and leaky gut syndrome, two disorders which are known to cause depression and impair mental health.

Potent Antibacterial Powers

Kombucha is densely packed with bacteria which can help fight the bad microbiome in the gut. Lab studies have found that kombucha can kill off E. coli. and some strains of salmonella and other harmful bacteria which cause food poisoning and other health issues.

Promotes Liver and Cardiovascular Health

The results of some studies suggest that kombucha may be able to prevent damage to the liver through its detoxification abilities. Animal studies have also found that kombucha may help promote cardiovascular health by lowering the levels of triglycerides and cholesterol.

May be Beneficial for Type 2 Diabetes Patients

Studies in animal models suggest that kombucha can help reduce blood sugar levels in people living with type 2 diabetes by slowing down the digestion of carbs. It has also been found to enhance kidney function. Scientists believe that green tea-based kombucha may provide more benefits for diabetes patients as it has natural blood sugar regulating abilities.

Be sure to grab a cup or fill a growler from one of our kombucha vendors next time you're at the Whistler Farmers Market. Your gut will thank you!