Gut health is having a moment – and honestly, with all the pasta, stress, and snack plate chaos that comes with parenting, it’s about time. One drink making waves in the wellness world (and fridge aisles) is kombucha. This fizzy fermented tea is loaded with probiotics, aka good bacteria, that can help balance your gut microbiome.
And while the idea of drinking something made with a ‘scoby’ might sound a bit… odd, some say it’s the best thing they’ve added to their daily routine (well, after coffee).
So what is this drink, exactly?
Our mystery drink is basically fermented tea – usually black or green – that’s been brewed with sugar and something called a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast). Don’t worry, it sounds way more scientific than it tastes.
© Shutterstock
After a few days or weeks of fermenting, you get a slightly tangy, fizzy drink that’s full of probiotics – the same good bacteria found in yoghurt and kefir. Some versions are fruity, others have a vinegar-like kick (in a good way), and many now sit proudly in supermarket fridges next to cold coffee and iced tea.
It’s naturally low in sugar, swaps in easily for soft drinks, and gives your gut a gentle nudge in the right direction.
Why are people obsessed with it?
One word: kombucha. This gut-friendly drink is packed with probiotics – tiny microorganisms that may help balance the bacteria in your digestive system. That balance could improve digestion, reduce bloating, support immunity, and even boost your mood (because yes, your gut really is your second brain).
Regular drinkers often say it keeps their digestion steady – especially after weekends filled with beige buffet food and zero greens. One fan shared: “I really enjoy it and feel good. I love the taste, and it helped me wean off Diet Pepsi.”
While kombucha-specific research is still growing, early studies on fermented foods show promising results. They can increase microbial diversity in your gut, which is a big win. Kombucha also contains polyphenols (plant-based compounds that support gut health) and natural acids that may help with digestion.
Should you actually drink it every day?
In most cases, yes – a small glass a day is totally fine, and can be part of a gut-friendly lifestyle. But like anything, moderation is key.
Here’s what to know before you go full brew-master:
- Start small: If your gut’s not used to fermented foods, jump in slowly – think 100ml a day to begin with
- Watch the sugar: Some flavoured kombuchas have more sugar than you’d think, so check the label (under 5g per 100ml is ideal)
© Shutterstock
-
Watch the fizz: Kombucha is fizzy. Some people love that, but if you have IBS or feel bloated easily, start slowly and see how your body reacts.
-
Pregnant? Double check first: Most kombucha isn’t pasteurised. If you’re pregnant, always ask your midwife or GP before giving it a go.
And for the record, not all kombucha tastes like apple cider vinegar mixed with regret. Brands like Remedy, Equinox and Momo have fun flavours like raspberry lemonade, ginger lemon or mango passionfruit that are way more accessible than the murky home-brewed jars of TikTok fame.
So is kombucha the magic answer to gut health? Probably not on its own. But it’s a great addition to a balanced routine – alongside fibre, water, movement, and maybe a little less stress (easier said than done, we know).
And honestly, if sipping something fizzy that isn’t wine feels like self-care? That counts too.