Kombucha and IBS

1. What is IBS?
2. Can Kombucha heal your gut?
3. Is Kombucha a good probiotic?
4. Kombucha & FODMAP for IBS
5. What about the sugar, caffeine & alcohol in Kombucha?
6. Carbonated Drinks & IBS
7. What are the best drinks for IBS?

What is IBS?

鈥淚BS鈥� stands for irritable bowel syndrome and is a disorder affecting the large intestine. Some of the include abdominal cramping, bloating, gas and diarrhoea. It is thought that IBS can be irritated by certain foods and drinks and, as a chronic condition, those with IBS have to carefully manage their diets to reduce these symptoms.

Can Kombucha heal your gut?

IBS is a complex disorder but one of the best places to start in managing the symptoms is to focus on creating good gut health overall. This can include a combination of that are irritants and, instead, introducing fermented, living drinks like Kombucha and Kefir as a means of improving overall gut health. We have written more about how to boost your gut microbiota and the health benefits of fermented tea in our blogs.

Is Kombucha a good probiotic?

I know we may sound like a broken record, but authentically brewed and fermented, Kombucha like 黑料大事记 is full of living bacterial cultures that promote good gut health. It is also well known that the Kombucha fermentation process can that can balance levels of bacteria in the gut.听听

Kombucha & FODMAP for IBS

are a type of carbohydrate that contain sugars that can upset the digestive system. Kombucha may be high in FODMAPs however, when enjoyed in moderation can have a positive effect on the gut. Most people with IBS follow a low FODMAP diet and should try and limit their intake of Kombucha to 6 ounces (177ml) or smaller – just less than half a bottle of 黑料大事记 Kombucha (perfect for splitting a bottle with a friend).听

What about the sugar, caffeine & alcohol in Kombucha?

As we have discussed in previous blogs, Kombucha contains naturally-occurring caffeine, from the green tea, and alcohol, which is produced in the fermentation process. Many IBS sufferers will avoid caffeine and alcohol as it irritates the gut, however Kombucha only contains very small amounts – much less caffeine than coffee and as much alcohol as fruit juice!听

If you are managing your IBS symptoms, we recommend avoiding any Kombucha with added sugar and sweeteners, especially sorbitol and mannitol, which can have a laxative effect. 黑料大事记 Kombucha is relatively low in sugar with 3g per 100ml,听which is great news for everyone seeking low sugar, healthy alternative drinks!

Carbonated Drinks & IBS

It has been thought in the past that carbonated beverages can contribute to digestive issues and lead to bloating and gas. Kombucha is naturally carbonated as carbon dioxide is produced during the fermentation process, however most of it does not remain in the drink. At 黑料大事记 we carbonate our Kombucha to add that sparkle back and recommend trying carbonated drinks in small quantities to see how you react.

What are the best drinks for IBS?

There are a lot of drinks available that are known to reduce the symptoms of IBS. These include:

• Kombucha
• Kefir
• Probiotic drinks
• Milk dairy alternatives such as almond or coconut milk
• Green juices
• Decaffeinated coffee
• Pure water

Overall, no matter what healthy drinks you choose, we recommend avoiding sugary and artificially-sweetened fizzy drinks, dairy milk, high-fructose fruit juices and regular coffee, which are all known to irritate the gut microbiome.听

Ultimately, everyone is different and various foods and drinks will affect us all in different ways. Some people report improved digestive health and reduced bloating from drinking Kombucha regularly, and for others Kefir or Green Juices are better. Why not try our 14 Day Kombucha Challenge to see how you feel?听

One of our previous participants told us…

鈥淚 love your kombucha and it has made me feel younger, due to IBS going away! Thank you and keep up the good work.”

Why not give it a go and see if it can help you too?听

The post Is Kombucha Good For IBS? appeared first on 黑料大事记.

Like most people, I grew up eating meat, dairy and eggs and never thought twice about eating those foods. I believed that was normal and healthy and couldn鈥檛 understand why people took such extreme actions like not having cow鈥檚 milk on their cereal or boiled eggs for breakfast. But for 7 years now I have been fully vegan, and my diet has been entirely plant-based. So, what was it that changed my mind and was it the right decision?

It began when I was at school and asked my parents if I could become a vegetarian. I鈥檇 grown up around farms and countryside and seeing the animal agriculture first hand had connected the animals I saw outside my window with the food on my plate. Once I had connected the two and seen what was involved in producing the food I ate, I decided that I would rather have lentils in my pasta sauce than minced beef.

The idea that it was not worth killing an animal just for me to eat meat was fundamental to me for several years, but I never saw any issue with milking a cow or taking the eggs that a chicken had laid. It wasn鈥檛 until I went to university that I was exposed to many varying views of the world. This made me want to understand my diet and consumption from all aspects which included researching animal agriculture and the alternatives. The conclusion for me was to eliminate the consumption of all animal products from my life but it is important to recognise that is far from perfect. While I believe there are clear problems with the industries surrounding animal agriculture; plenty of alternative crops / meat-free foods can cause harm to humans as well as the environment when produced in the wrong way. My goal by transitioning to a vegan diet was to do as little harm as possible.

My reasons why being Vegan is important

For me, animals were the principal reason for becoming vegan. A lot of their exploitation goes unnoticed which is understandable when taking note may also mean removing peoples鈥� favourite part of their diet. Naturally the worst conditions are in factory farms employed by large corporations who can hide the horrible environments the animals endure. There are now plenty of articles and documentaries for those who are interested in knowing where their meat, dairy and eggs come from.

Environmental issues have also become far more apparent through the media in recent years which has meant people are increasingly considering this in the lifestyle choices they make. For me, a vegan diet is a great way to reduce the impact I have on the drain of resources and damage to natural ecosystems. The air and water pollution from intensive factory farms, as well as their high-water use, makes alternative plant crops far more sustainable. Deforestation is also a massive issue: firstly, the land needed to raise the animals and then the vast number of crops that need to be grown to feed them. If the crops were simply fed to humans in the first place, far less land would be needed and hence more land would be protected for vital habitats like the Amazon rainforest.

Health is another major consideration in our diets and there are many benefits with a plant-based one. The amount of chemicals involved in producing animal products is alarming. From antibiotics for preventing disease in their horrendous living conditions, to supplements for maximising their yield, all these chemicals result in toxins being left in the food that people eat. Plant crops tend to require and contain less toxins, but this is where organic produce becomes important. Organic fruit, veg and other plant-based products are fantastic for a cleaner, vegan lifestyle. For me, working at 黑料大事记 has been great as the company shares the same values around organic and vegan produce. I know that everything I contribute at work goes towards producing a great tasting drink that does as little harm as possible to people and the planet. The nutrition in animal-based foods also tends to be much higher in fat than the plant alternatives which can be an issue if consumed in excess. Ultimately the health effects I have experienced since become vegan are anecdotal but very real for me. I have experienced better moods, improved concentration, better gut health and an overall feeling of increased fitness. This may obviously vary for everyone but for me it has been fantastic.

In recent years, finding products that are suitable for vegans has become much easier with increased options and clear labelling for most things. Eating out has also become far more straightforward as most places have clearly marked options. Beyond this, finding brands and products that meet higher standards of environmental and ethical responsibility can be very difficult. Every brand wants to be seen as though they are doing the right thing which can make it very confusing when deciding where to spend your money. Often the smaller natural / whole foods shops vet the products they sell so that customers don鈥檛 have to worry so much about researching each individual company. On a larger scale there are independent organisations like B Corp who certify companies based on various ethical and environmental standards. This means that if a company is a certified B Corp you know they meet high standards of social and environmental performance, and you can support them with a clearer conscience.

Top tips for plant-based lifestyles

So, this Veganuary if you are feeling like trying a plant-based diet out 鈥� here are some tips I have learned over the years!

• Take it slow – Once I decided to go vegan, it was a slow transition. Try replacing foods and ingredients gradually to find out what works well for your body and lifestyle.
• Reduce instead of remove – If you don鈥檛 want to go the whole way, maybe just try reducing your meat consumption for a month or two and see how you feel
• Vote with your money – Spend some time looking at plant-based brands that you are attracted to and include these products in your diet 鈥� by voting with your money, you are automatically having a positive impact on the planet

Of course, 黑料大事记 is organic, vegan and ethically sourced so I can always recommend trying some of our delicious living kombucha as a part of your Veganuary adventures. But I would say that!

Written by Ben Costello

Planning and Production Manager @ 黑料大事记 Kombucha

The post Why I am Vegan appeared first on 黑料大事记.

‘In here’, often means prioritising products (and companies) that do good for our bodies, minds and souls as well as the world around us. Instinctively good as we like to say here in our brewery.

This month when we are all deciding how to spend our valuable resources like time, money and energy ‘well’, we have put together our Winter Gift Guide featuring brands and products that our team at 黑料大事记 love.

In-joy!

River Cottage Ferment the Seasons Course

The ideal gift for any kombucha lover is River Cottage鈥檚 course, Ferment the Seasons. This is the perfect way to get to grips with making your own gut-friendly ferments. On this one-day course with fermentation expert Rachel de Thample, you鈥檒l learn to make a range of fermented products, all with seasonal organic ingredients. And of course it wouldn鈥檛 be a day of fermentation without learning how to make your own kombucha!

Head to their website听听to find out more.

REN Skincare Ranges

We love REN. The team there have been pioneers in Clean Skincare since 2000 and select nature鈥檚 most powerful and kind bioactive ingredients, harnessing their benefits in our formulas to create effective, high performance and clinically proven skincare. REN are passionate about protecting our planet鈥檚 resources and committed to reducing the waste that they produce at every stage of the production, distribution, and promotion of our skincare.

Check our their Christmas gift ranges听

T&Cs- 50% off on the first box for new Oddbox customers. Offer excludes the fruit booster. Offer valid until 31st March, 2023

The post Celebrate ‘Well’ this Winter appeared first on 黑料大事记.

Is an organic diet better for you and the environment?

As an increasing number of us become more environmentally and health conscious, we want more of the good stuff and less of the bad.听 It is no surprise organics is one the fastest growing areas in the food industry, reaching a in 2021. With so much choice and controversial information out there, it can get confusing as to whether eating organic is better for you and if buying organic really is better for the environment? As a business founded on the principles of organic health and sustainability, we truly believe that organic is better 鈥� for both you and the planet 鈥� here鈥檚 why.听

1. What鈥檚 the difference between organic and non-organic food?
2. Can we trust organic food?
3. Is eating organic healthier?
4. What are the benefits of organic food?
5. Is buying organic better for the environment?
6. What are the pros and cons of organic food?
7. Our commitment to organic

What鈥檚 the difference between organic and non-organic food?

Organic food has been grown, raised, and produced without the use of pesticides, chemical fertilisers, growth stimulants, antibiotics, and pesticides. It must also be free of any artificial food additives and GMO. Non-organic food has been farmed or produced using a wide array of manufactured fertilisers and pesticides, and may contain artificial additives that can be harmful to both humans and the environment.听

Can we trust organic food?

Absolutely.听听

Certified organic companies undergo rigorous independent inspection to ensure they adhere to a strict set of regulations. In the UK, the main regulating body is the , so when you see their symbol on a package (like our bottles and cans!) you can be assured that the product you are buying has been inspected from 鈥榯ractor to trolley鈥� and comes from trusted, high-quality sources.听

Which is better: organic or natural? Are they the same? Whilst many organic foods are natural, natural foods are not necessarily organic. Natural foods are unprocessed and free from artificial additives and preservatives, but unless they are certified organic, they may contain high levels of pesticides.

Is eating organic healthier?

Did you know that ?听 Even when non-organic foods are washed, or cooked, harmful pesticide residue can remain. Eating organic is not only a great way to help avoid these toxins, but has also found it to be more nutritionally beneficial, and many will argue, tastier too!听

What are the benefits of organic food?

Organic Food Benefits

1. have shown organic produce has up to 40% higher levels of nutrients including vitamin C, zinc, and Iron.
2. Organic food has up to
3. Organic food helps to support immunity and reduce allergies.
4. Organic food reduces your exposure to artificial chemicals, added hormones, toxic metals and antibiotic-resistant bacteria which can be carcinogenic and endocrine disruptors.听
5. Organic food has better taste due to diverse soil, higher nutrient levels, and the absence of pesticide residue.听
6. Organic meat and milk contain around , (without increasing calories and unhealthy fats).听 are essential for supporting brain, heart and eye health, immune function, can help fight depression and anxiety, as well as many other essential functions of the body.听

Increasingly, scientists believe that no level of pesticide exposure is safe for humans. Many pesticides, even trace amounts, are endocrine disruptors, which can affect everything from the thyroid gland to fertility. Additionally, long term pesticide exposure has been linked to cancers, asthma, ADHD, depression and anxiety and neurodegenerative disease.听

Multiple pesticides are now found in our food, soil and water, creating what is known as the 鈥�.鈥� Growing evidence suggests pesticides become more harmful when combined and safety levels are currently set for one pesticide at a time, not the effects of all of them together. UK government testing found that 25% of all non-organic food contains pesticide cocktails and some foods have found to contain 听in a single item.听

The only cocktails (or mocktails!) we want you drinking are those that tantalise your taste buds and contribute to good health. Check out our kombucha cocktail recipes here.

Whilst there is still much to learn and discover, simply put, organic food has more of the good stuff and omits the bad stuff. * So, the more organic you can put in your body, the better!听

Is buying organic better for the environment?

Organic farming is designed to work with nature, enhance soil biodiversity and respect the earth鈥檚 water and air. It is the most sustainable way of farming, benefiting the planet and people. If you are wondering how organic food is better for the environment, here are a few points.听

13 ways organic farming is better for the environment:

1. Lowers emissions
2. Uses less energy
3. Helps reduce greenhouse gasses听
4. Lowers the risk of pollution to soil and waterways
5. Reduces pollution
6. Reduces fossil fuel emissions听
7. Conserves water
8. Reduces soil erosion
9. Increases soil fertility听
10. Is better for wildlife and local communities听
11. Creates healthier soils that store around 25% more carbon听
12. Protects plant, insect, and bird life, which on average is 50% more abundant on organic farms.听
13. Has the highest animal welfare standards

Research suggests that if all UK farming was organic, , which would have a significant impact on the health of our environment and communities.听

Are there negatives of organic food?听

Whilst we stand by organic food being better for our health and the planet, we recognise the challenges of organic farming and the barriers to organic food being accessible to all.听听

Higher Cost:听 Due to the more labour-intensive farming methods and smaller scalability, organic food often costs more than non-organic food. In an ideal world, organic food wouldn鈥檛 have to be more expensive, and organisations like the Soil Association are working hard to gain subsidies.听

Here are some suggestions to make eating organic more affordable:

• Shop seasonally
• Shop on sale and freeze items听
• Grow your own herbs and vegetables
• Prioritise which organic foods to buy. Check out the鈥� and 鈥� guides to help minimise exposure to pesticides on fresh produce and stretch your budget further.听

The Soil Association has also put together a great guide.听

Shelf Life: Since organic food does not contain preservatives, it may not last as long. It is recommended to keep produce in the fridge to keep it fresher and buy smaller amounts to prevent food from going off.听

Availability: A full range of organic products may not be available at your local shop, but every day this is increasing and there are several organic food delivery services available nationally now such as .听听

What are the pros and cons of organic food?

As a certified organic company, we believe the positive impact of organic food heavily outweighs the disadvantages. We also acknowledge there is still a lot to be done for organic produce to be more accessible to all.听

Our commitment to organic

We believe in a world where business is used as a force for social and environmental change and where people understand that their choices directly contribute to their own health and that of our ecosystems. In fact, this is our vision, which drives everything we do. Being organic and contributing to a more sustainable world is at the heart of our existence.听

If that sounds exciting, kick back with an organic booch and check out our 黑料大事记 Impact Report. The care, craftsmanship and high standards that go into creating our delicious kombuchas mean that not only are you getting the very best in taste and quality, but you are also bettering your health and doing the planet good.听

*Some studies have found low levels of pesticide residue on organic foods due to systemic use of pesticides in the ecosystems and waterways and over spray from nearby farms.

The post Is Eating Organic Really Better for you? appeared first on 黑料大事记.

So, the real question is: does mint have any health benefits? In short, the answer is yes! There are a wide range of health benefits of mint, from improved brain function to digestive health. Better yet, opt for organic and enjoy all these benefits without the chemical residue or environmental burden, or mix your mint with other health-boosting foods. How about that? Drinking a fruity mojito and reaping all the health benefits of kombucha and mint? What a win!

We鈥檒l run you through some of the incredible health benefits of mint in more detail鈥�

Health benefits of mint听

1. Filled with nutrients
2. Improved digestive health
3. Boost your immune system
4. Better brain function
5. Support your pregnancy
6. Reduce cold symptoms
7. Keep your mouth healthy
8. Help manage stress
9. Improve allergy symptoms
10. Soothe irritated skin

1. Filled with nutrients

Mint contains a number of different , such as:

• Fibre – maintains a healthy bowel
• Vitamin A – improves eye health and prevents cardiovascular disease
• Vitamin C – supports immune system and tissue repair
• Calcium – maintain strong bones
• Iron – supports healthy blood
• Folate – necessary for producing red and white blood cells
• Manganese – beneficial for brain and nerve function听

Mint is also a fantastic source of antioxidants, which helps protect your body from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. Oxidative stress can lead to fatigue, memory loss, joint pain, headaches and more unpleasant symptoms.

2. Improved digestive health听

Another amazing benefit of mint is that it can help improve your digestive health, and even relieve some of the symptoms of . Peppermint oil in particular has been known to alleviate IBS symptoms, since it contains menthol which can relax the muscle in your digestive system. In turn, this can help .听

Did you know that kombucha can also help reduce the symptoms of IBS?

3. Boost your immune system

As touched upon briefly, that help against free radical damage and have a huge impact on your immune system. Maintaining a strong immune system is essential for overall good health and preventing a multitude of illnesses.听

In addition to mint, kombucha can also boost your immune system and promote good health throughout the body.

4. Better brain function

Mint has been known to have a positive effect on brain function, helping increase alertness and memory capabilities, as well as prevent mental fatigue. These types of benefits of mints are typically obtained through inhaling the plant鈥檚 essential oils, rather than from consumption.

5. Support your pregnancy

Another lesser-known benefit of mint is that it can be used to support your pregnancy and help make . Yes, you read that right! A natural cure for breastfeeding pain – hallelujah! Some new mothers apply mint to the skin, in the form of an essential oil or peppermint gel to relieve breastfeeding pain and prevent skin cracking.听

Some people also choose to chew mint as a way to .

Although many swear by these remedies, we recommend checking with your doctors before changing your diet, taking new medications or supplements, especially when pregnant or breastfeeding.听

6. Reduce cold symptoms

The common cold is caused by a virus, which means mint cannot cure your cold, but it can certainly help relieve the symptoms. reveal that mint can help improve nasal breathing, helping you decongest your sinuses and get you through the worst of your cold. Why not try a cosy cup of mint tea to warm you up as well?

7. Keep your mouth healthy

Mint is proven to mask bad breath, making it a great ingredient to flavour toothpaste, mouthwash and gum. And, while these products only mask the smell, chewing real mint leaves or drinking mint tea will actually kill the bad-smelling bacteria at the source and neutralise the smell. In fact, , peppermint in particular, and can be great for relieving mouth ulcers, too.听

8. Help manage stress

Research suggests that mint can help combat feelings of . Some studies even suggest that the , which means simply eating a peppermint sweet or diffusing mint oils in the air can do the trick.听

Studies also suggest that peppermint can and prevent hypertension.听

9. Improve allergy symptoms

Mint can help reduce the symptoms associated with dust allergies and asthma due to its . It contains an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent called rosmarinic acid that has . So, next time you鈥檙e feeling the wrath of pollen, reach for some peppermint!

10. Soothe irritated skin

Salicylic acid and Vitamin A have become extremely popular in the world of skincare, with many social media skin-care gurus preaching their cleansing properties. Mint products can make a great addition to your since it contains antibacterial properties, salicylic acid and Vitamin A, which are all beneficial for acne-prone or irritated skin. There are a variety of products on the market that contain mint and are known to unclog pores, reduce redness and break down pimples.

Similarly, containing high amounts of and antioxidants, mint also does wonders for your hair. As such, mint is beneficial for treating dandruff and other scalp conditions.

All that being said, it鈥檚 important to note that pure menthol is not good for your health, whether that鈥檚 inhaling it, consuming it or applying it to your skin!

Summing up

Is mint good for you? Absolutely! Mint is a fantastic source of vitamins and minerals, and makes a healthy addition to your diet. Incorporating mint into your daily routine may not be for everyone, but don鈥檛 let that get in the way of enjoying the benefits of mint.听 Not a fan of peppermint tea? Hate the taste of minty sweets? Why not treat yourself to a tasty organic Kombucha Virgin Mojito? Or add a splash of white rum – that still counts, right?

The post 10 Health Benefits of Mint appeared first on 黑料大事记.

Ingredients :

• 40ml ‘Blanco’ tequila (blanco tequila is a tequila that has been aged for a very short time, if at all)
• 15ml lavender syrup
• 75ml
• Juice of half a regular-sized lime
• 1 bottle of 黑料大事记 Wild Berry Kombucha, fresh from the fridge
• Ice
• Garnish (we used a slice of dehydrated lime and an edible viola flower, but this is up to you!)

Utensils:

• Latte spoon (any long handled spoon will do)
• Long drink glass (these usually have glass detailing towards the bottom, but any highball glass will do)
• Straw (try a reusable straw to be eco friendly!)

听Method:

1. Combine the first 4 ingredients in the glass, and give it a light stir to combine them.
2. Add in the ice, a couple of cubes at a time, at roughly 15-20 second intervals, stirring lightly throughout. This helps cool the spirits down gradually.
3. Carefully top the drink with the Kombucha until you have roughly half an inch of space left in the glass.
4. Add your garnish and straw (the fruit can be placed inside the glass, or on the rim of the glass. To place it on the rim, make a cut halfway through the slice with a small knife).
5. Serve and enjoy this fruity Kombucha tequila concoction!

Recipe by James French, Bartender & Mixologist at The Clockwork Rose

Check out our our other Kombucha cocktail recipes.

The post A莽ai Kombucha Tequila Cocktail Recipe appeared first on 黑料大事记.

Summer is now in full swing and that means it鈥檚 time for fruity drinks and tipples in the sun! We鈥檝e whipped up a delicious gin and Kombucha cocktail for you to try at home. Using a blend of our Raspberry & Elderflower Kombucha and dry gin, this sumptuous treat will be sure to tickle your taste buds with a sweet and tangy twist. Let鈥檚 get stuck in鈥�

The post Kombucha Gin Fizz Cocktail Recipe appeared first on 黑料大事记.

Let鈥檚 explore the link between Kombucha and Probiotics. Probiotics have long been a popular health trend, but are not just a passing fad. There is plenty of research out there now that clearly shows the link between consuming probiotics and your overall health and wellbeing. A quick google search will turn up all kinds of interesting studies like this one from , which links probiotics and gut health.听

There are numerous ways to include probiotics in your diet, such as taking supplements, consuming fermented foods, yoghurts and more. In this blog, we will take a closer look at the benefits of probiotics, why Kombucha is a good source of probiotics and how Kombucha compares to other sources of probiotics that you could get your hands on!

1. What are probiotics and why do we need them?
2. What鈥檚 the difference between probiotics and prebiotics?
3. What are the best foods for probiotics?
   • Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics?
4. Kombucha vs probiotic supplements
5. Why nutritionists recommend Kombucha as a great source of probiotics

What are probiotics and why do we need them?

Probiotics are live bacteria and yeasts promoted as having various health benefits. According to the , probiotics are thought to help restore the natural balance of bacteria in your gut (including your stomach and intestines) when it’s been disrupted by an illness or treatment. Commonly known as 鈥榞ood鈥� or 鈥榝riendly鈥� bacteria, some of the key benefits of probiotics include to fight off illness and .

Probiotics are especially important nowadays with the . There are so many processed foods and drinks that we consume that can have a negative impact on our gut microbiome, and foods rich in probiotics may be one way of helping this. For those of you wanting to dive deeper, we discuss some of the health benefits of consuming a diet rich in living, fermented food and drinks in some of our previous blogs, such as Kombucha and IBS, the health benefits of fermented tea, and Kombucha skincare benefits.听

What鈥檚 the difference between ?

It鈥檚 worth mentioning at this stage that probiotics and the other term you may have heard, prebiotics, differ. In a nutshell, probiotics are the foods or supplements that contain live bacteria to balance the microflora of the gut. Prebiotics, on the other hand, are any foods that feed that microflora. Prebiotics are typically high fibre foods that help the healthy bacteria grow inside your digestive tract. Ideally you need a diet that contains both!

What are the best foods for probiotics?

So, what food and drinks can we consume if we want to up our levels of probiotics? Top sources include:

1. Yoghurt

Ideally organic, bio-live yoghurts that contain living bacterial cultures and yeasts

2. Kefir

Traditionally made, living kefir (again we prefer organic), is a great source of probiotics

3. Kombucha

Obviously on our list is Kombucha. Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics? Yes, Kombucha is a fantastic probiotic, containing beneficial live microorganisms that can help improve gut health, but a word of caution here. The kombucha has to have been traditionally brewed and fermented in order for the living bacterial cultures to contain helpful probiotics. Not all kombuchas are fermented properly and in some cases, probiotics are added in after a pasteurisation or filtration process. It鈥檚 always worth doing your homework into how a Kombucha has been brewed before you assume it contains healthy probiotic cultures.听

4. Sauerkraut

Made from fermented cabbage and other vegetables, during the fermentation process helpful probiotics grow.

5. Tempeh

A fermented cake made from partially cooked soybeans, is fermented with a type of mould called Rhizopus that causes probiotic cultures to develop

6. Sourdough bread

A classic, sourdough bread is fermented using probiotic cultures that ensure it is much more friendly to our gut than other breads.

7. Miso

Miso is considered to have both , and is made by fermenting soybean paste with salt and a mould-culture known as koji.

8. Some cheeses

Cheese like cheddar, feta and gouda are common probiotic cheeses. Looking for labels that state 鈥榬aw鈥�, 鈥榰npasteurised鈥� or 鈥榩robiotic鈥� will let you know if you are purchasing the right products

Kombucha vs probiotic supplements

There is always the choice of choosing probiotic supplements if you find your lifestyle simply doesn鈥檛 allow you to purchase or consume probiotic rich foods and drinks on a regular basis. Of course, there are many pros and cons to taking supplements, rather than eating them in tasty foods and drinks, like Kombucha, such as:听

Taste

Over the years, we have found that it is almost always the delicious taste of our organic Kombucha that has turned Kombucha sceptics into Kombucha evangelists! Not only can you explore different flavours for each season of the year, but you can also use Kombucha as a living, healthy and delicious swap for many other drinks, such as juice, soft drinks, and alcohol. Supplements on the other hand, whilst convenient, are pretty boring in terms of adding flavour to our eating and drinking habits.听听

Cost

A good, high quality probiotic supplement can cost a lot of money, especially from specialty health food shops. Probiotic rich foods and drinks like Kombucha can be bought in multiple formats and pack sizes, which can save you money in the long run – like our multipacks or create your own boxes.

Effectiveness

Of course, we are all made differently and no one person鈥檚 gut microbiome is the same as another鈥檚. This is one of the challenges when taking a probiotic supplement, as they often contain extremely , (I can speak from experience on this one!). On the other hand, organic, raw, unpasteurised drinks like traditionally brewed Kefir and Kombucha contain naturally occurring beneficial bacteria that tend to be gentler on your gut and help to create overall health and wellbeing over time.听

There is also the small issue of stomach acid when it comes to taking probiotic supplements.听 If you wish to try these, we recommend choosing a supplement with an enteric-coated capsule to make sure it gets to the gut alive!

Added benefits听

Probiotic supplements are only designed for one thing, bringing bacteria to your gut, whereas other natural supplements – like Kombucha, kefir and yoghurt – have a multitude of benefits such as supporting our overall health and immune system, as well as assisting in better sleep and boosting our overall mood.听

Why nutritionists recommend Kombucha as a great source of probiotics

In our recent guest blog James Hudson from Nutrition for Energy talks in detail about the link between Kombucha and sports. As well as diving into the various health benefits of a traditionally brewed Kombucha , he also talks directly to the benefits of the probiotics found in kombucha.听

鈥淜ombucha can be described as a probiotic drink because it contains live health-promoting bacteria that are beneficial for our microbiome. Our microbiome is the complex makeup of all the bacteria that live on and in us. We have a relationship with our bacteria where we help them, (by providing them food and a place to stay), and they help us (by protecting us from illness, helping to synthesise vitamins. The bottom line is, if we look after them as best we can, they can do the same to us.鈥�

We must emphasise here that everyone is different, which means what works for someone else may not work for you. Whether you like drinking Kombucha, eating fermented vegetables or taking supplements, it鈥檚 important to have probiotics and maintain a healthy gut. If you want to see how kombucha can have a positive impact on the health of your microbiome, why not try creating your personalised case, full of the flavours that appeal to you the most?

The post Is Kombucha a good source of probiotics? appeared first on 黑料大事记.

• Does Kombucha give you energy?
• Where does the 鈥楰ombucha buzz鈥� come from?
• Kombucha vs coffee
• Does Kombucha keep you awake?

Does kombucha give you energy?

Yes, Kombucha is known to give you an energy boost. This is mainly due to the small amounts of produced in the fermentation process when Kombucha is brewed using the traditional methods. At 黑料大事记, we brew in batches, allowing time for the Kombucha culture to work its magic with our organic ingredients. This means that there is a small amount of caffeine left to fuel your healthy booch buzz!

Where does the 鈥楰ombucha buzz鈥� come from?

A key factor in creating the healthy buzz are the levels of B-Vitamins found in authentically brewed Kombucha. Not to get too technical, but that catalyse reactions within our bodies. B-vitamins use glucose to generate ATP (Adreno triphosphate) in the mitochondria of our cells. ATP is the driving force for many bodily functions that require energy, such as muscle contraction.听

It’s worth flagging that the levels of B-vitamins will vary for different Kombuchas as they are naturally produced when yeast breaks down sugars in the fermentation process. The sorts of B vitamins found in authentically produced Kombucha can include B1, B6 and B12.

Iron

Minerals, such as Iron, are also , as well as other fermented drinks like Kefir. It is known that low iron levels can lead to a which can result in you feeling tired and fatigued. This is because iron produces haemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carry oxygen around the body. So, the naturally-occurring Iron found in Kombucha also contributes to that classic 鈥楰ombucha buzz鈥�.

Probiotics

Probiotics are a type of good bacteria often found in our guts that have a , such as supporting good digestive health, mental wellbeing and a healthy heart. Probiotics can help with your energy levels in a variety of ways, including:

• Improving our sleep, since .听
• , providing us with the essential nutrients our body needs to function – be that for revision or exercise.
• Reducing cortisol levels. Studies show a correlation between high cortisol and lower energy levels. , resulting in higher energy levels and less stress.听
• , like serotonin, the 鈥榝eel-good鈥� chemical that is produced in the gut.听

So, when we consume Kombucha, we get a rush of energy and a feel-good sensation from the serotonin.听

Caffeine and Theanine

Just to be clear, the energy from Kombucha does not come from caffeine, as there is only a small amount of caffeine left in real Kombucha if it has been fermented properly. The caffeine comes from the tea the Kombucha is made from, but this is reduced by at least a third during the fermentation process. This makes Kombucha a great option for someone looking to cut down their caffeine intake, whilst still enjoying an energy boost.听

The Kombucha boost comes from the high levels of L-Theanine in tea, an amino acid that stimulates the , which are known to increase creativity and enhance your ability to absorb new information. A combination of caffeine and L-Theanine provide the perfect balance for concentration, relaxation, and sustained energy levels.听

Kombucha vs. coffee

The energy boost we gain from Kombucha is generated from B vitamins, Iron, Probiotics and L-Theanine, whereas coffee only provides an instant energy boost from caffeine. Caffeinated coffee has extremely high levels of caffeine, which can become addictive and lead to , leaving you more tired than before.听

On the other hand, Kombucha contains much less caffeine and provides an energy boost without the crash. This makes it a fantastic pick-me-up for long study sessions or challenging workdays.

However, if like me you are a die-hard coffee lover and just can鈥檛 bear the thought of life without your coffee ritual then perhaps 黑料大事记 Kombucha鈥檚 Coffee Kombucha is for you? Fermented from coffee beans instead of green tea, this Kombucha is a unique low-caffeine alternative for those wishing to switch up their morning routines.听

Does kombucha keep you awake?听

Kombucha is unlikely to keep you awake at night, enabling you to get a good night鈥檚 sleep and ensure you鈥檙e fresh for the day. Find out more about how Kombucha can improve your sleep.

So, we hope you have been inspired that by drinking Kombucha you can give yourself a great way to enjoy a healthy energy boost to help you throughout the day. Why not try some of our authentically brewed, real, living Kombucha for yourself and see how you feel?听

The post Can Kombucha Give You an Energy Boost? appeared first on 黑料大事记.

• Do you need to refrigerate Kombucha?
• How long can you keep Kombucha out of the refrigerator?
• Can you store Kombucha outside during the winter or in a cool cellar or garage?
• Can you store Kombucha in the freezer?
• Is Kombucha still drinkable after being left out?
• Does it matter if you store Kombucha in a can or bottle?

Do you need to refrigerate Kombucha?

Yes, real living Kombucha should be kept refrigerated. By keeping it in the fridge, you will slow the natural, ongoing fermentation process by deactivating the living enzymes and reducing the rate of organic acid production. You will also help to keep the associated carbon dioxide production at lower levels, ensuring that your kombucha maintains just the right amount of 鈥榝izz鈥� and does not explode 鈥� this is especially known to happen in unregulated home brewing!

Our 黑料大事记 kombucha range and our River Cottage range are made from fermented, organic teas. So, like most other living Kombuchas, the living fermentation process will continue after our booch is bottled or canned, something that will speed up exponentially if the kombucha is warm.

By keeping our kombucha chilled, you will also ensure that it continues to taste fresh and delicious. Over-fermented booch can become very tart and vinegary which is definitely not to the liking of most taste buds! You can find out more in our blog 鈥�What does kombucha taste like?鈥�.

How long can you keep kombucha out of the refrigerator?

Generally, in the UK, it is fine to leave Kombucha out of the refrigerator for 2 or 3 days at room temperature, however, any longer than that it may become fizzier and develop a different taste due to over-fermentation. In warmer climates, the higher temperatures can cause fermentation to happen faster so watch out if you are drinking booch on your hols.听

Can you store Kombucha outside during the winter or in a cool cellar or garage?

The optimum temperature to store Kombucha is below 8 degrees celsius, which means a cool cellar or garage may not be suitable as the fermentation process will still slowly continue in the warmer months. Kombucha will be fine kept outside, in a garage or cellar in the cold winter months. As the temperature begins to rise, it鈥檚 important to put it into the fridge.听

Can you store Kombucha in the freezer?

You should not store Kombucha in the freezer as that would be far too cold. Like most other liquids, Kombucha will freeze in sub-zero temperatures, causing it to expand and burst the container. Likewise, it is not advisable to freeze Kombucha as it can have a negative impact on the SCOBY cultures, causing the cell membranes of the yeast and beneficial bacteria to rupture and taking away the amazing benefits of the drink. Obviously, we want to ensure that your living cultures remain that way 鈥� find out why in our health benefits of fermented tea blog.听

Is Kombucha still drinkable after being left out?

All of the above being said, if you have a power cut or simply have to leave your shopping out on the counter for a short period of time, do not despair!听 Kombucha left out of the fridge will not spoil like other fresh drinks, like milk, however it may not be the same drink you purchased. If left out for longer than 2 or 3 days, it could start to lose flavour, develop a vinegar-like flavour or be extra fizzy. Left out any longer than this, the fermentation process may restart to a degree and affect the flavour. That said, if the Kombucha has been kept extra cold by the retailer then it takes a little longer for the fermentation process to kick in again.听

Thankfully, this means that you can definitely take your Kombucha with you when you travel or in your lunch, without worrying that it will go bad. If you are going to be in a warm environment however, we do recommend packing your Kombucha with an ice pack to keep it chilled, for a better taste and a more enjoyable refreshment.听

Does it matter if you store Kombucha in a can or bottle?

A real, living Kombucha, whether stored in glass, aluminium or plastic, must still remain in the fridge to preserve its taste and prevent over-fermentation.

If you are home brewing Kombucha, you will need to leave about 2 inches of space in your container or bottle, to allow room for carbon dioxide which may be produced during storage, even when in the fridge. If you do not leave this 鈥榟eadspace鈥� for your booch to grow, you may have the container explode and cause some damage to humans and non humans alike!

So, in summary, if you are buying or making a real living Kombucha, you will need to make sure that you have enough space in your fridge to keep it fresh! For most booch lovers, this is something that comes naturally once you realise the benefits of drinking a living Kombucha.听

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