

However, federal agencies continue to recommend completely restricting alcohol consumption during all trimesters of pregnancy. Kombucha sold commercially as a “non-alcoholic” beverage still contains very small amounts of alcohol, but can contain no more than 0.5% according to Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) regulations ( 8).Ī 0.5% alcohol content is not a lot, and is the same amount found in most non-alcoholic beers. The fermentation process of kombucha tea results in the production of alcohol in trace amounts ( 6, 7). Popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits, specificallyĪlthough kombucha offers many health benefits, there are some things to keep in mind before consuming it while pregnant or nursing. Is a fermented tea, usually brewed from green or black tea.

Probiotics are associated with various health benefits, including digestive health, weight loss and potentially even helping reduce systemic inflammation ( 3, 4, 5). It is a good source of probiotics, which provide your gut with healthy bacteria ( 2). Kombucha has increased in sales recently due to its perceived health benefits. You can find kombucha in grocery stores, but some people chose to brew their kombucha themselves, which requires careful preparation and monitoring. The kombucha is then transferred into bottles and left to ferment for another 1–2 weeks to carbonate, resulting in a slightly sweet, slightly acidic and refreshing beverage.įrom there, kombucha is usually kept refrigerated in order to decelerate the fermentation and carbonation process.

Generally, a SCOBY (a flat, round culture of bacteria and yeast) is placed into sweetened tea and fermented at room temperature for a few weeks ( 1). However, it typically consists of a double fermentation process. The process of preparing kombucha can vary. Kombucha is a fermented beverage often made from black or green tea.
