My Favorite Kombucha Ever
I get so many questions about kombucha and what in the hell it is. It happens pretty much every time I'm seen drinking one, so I think it's time I explained what it is.
Kombucha is a fermented tea, either from a black or green variety, that's lightly sweetened. It's good for:
- immune system stimulation,
- digestion
- weight-loss, in some cases
Do I really think it helps my digestion?
Yes, in fact I genuinely believe kombucha has significantly improved my post-meal digestion and it's the main reason I began drinking it in the first place.
I'm always struggling with digestion, actively trying to avoid foods that will be difficult for my stomach to break down. Of course, though, I can't always be so strict with my diet and I inevitably eat something that feels like a rock just sitting in my stomach.
Adding the extra healthy bacteria to my gut has helped break down foods more easily for me and boosted my overall digestion. The kombucha helps with this because of the fermentation already in the tea.
Why is fermentation important for gut health?
Pretty much fermented anything is great for your digestive health because of all the good bacteria that's naturally already in it. This "good bacteria" is known as probiotics which aids in steady, healthy, and regular digestion.
Fermented foods are also great for your immune system, can increase the flavor of the food you're eating, and can curb sugar cravings. When I hit an afternoon dip, instead of grabbing for a sugary treat or coffee, I pick up a kombucha. It satiates any cravings I have and prevents me from eating something I shouldn't.
So which is my favorite brand of kombucha?
I've been trying different brands of kombucha for about two years and have finally found one that I consistently like.
Health-Ade is my absolute favorite brand for kombucha. Each flavor is genuinely unique and easy to drink. I've never felt that Health-Ade's kombucha was overpowering in their flavor or smell which is understandably a big turn off for many.
One of my favorite flavors is the Sweet Thorn for it's perfectly tart-sweet balance. Another delicious 'booch that's always in my fridge is Power Greens - I feel healthier just looking at it with the combination of spirulina, wheatgrass, and camu camu which is packed vitamin C.
Health-Ade has been expanding its presence throughout Chicago recently. I can always find them at Goddess & Grocer, Olivia's Market, or The Dill Pickle Co-Op, not to mention Whole Foods and Trader Joe's regularly sells the delicious fermented tea.
Although the above middle flavor is only available during the holiday season, there are still plenty more to choose from. The kombucha usually retails for just under $4 but Whole Foods often has a great deal of 2 for $6 which I never pass up. Also, Health-Ade recently announced they'd be selling their Pink Lady Apple flavor in a six pack at select Costco's, which is a huge money saver!
If you're interested in drinking kombucha, I highly recommend Health-Ade. They're the perfect introduction to the kombucha world with a variety of flavors, great price, and health benefits.
