Is Kombucha OK for diabetes?
It has been a little while since we have written a blog post about some of the benefits of our drinks – it has been a busy few months at Booyah Vitality HQ and we cannot wait to share our upcoming plans with you all.
We hope you have all had a lovely summer and enjoyed Kombucha in the few bouts of sunshine we have had!
Remember, Kombucha is not just a low sugar, natural refreshing drink, it has major health benefits so should be drunk all year around and not just in the sunshine.
One question that we often get when we see customers is “Can I have Kombucha if I have got Diabetes?” or “Isn’t it full of sugar?”
And the answer is that research shows that Kombucha is actually great for diabetics to consume, and no, ours is not full of sugar - although some brands can be and can also be full of artificial sugars which are not good at all.
Many diabetics have said they don’t experience blood sugar spikes with kombucha. This is likely to be especially true of Booyah Kombucha, because we only use organic raw sugar cane and the SCOBY (the living bacteria) absorbs the sugar creating probiotics. From the nutritional analysis our kombucha’s only have between 10 and 15 calories per 100ml.
Drinking kombucha can also offer potential benefits for diabetics. While research is ongoing, here are some potential advantages:
Blood Sugar Regulation: Kombucha may help stabilise blood sugar levels. Some studies suggest that it can slow down the digestion of carbohydrates, preventing rapid spikes in blood sugar after meals.
Researchers at Georgetown University’s School of Health in the USA reported that according to their studies, four weeks of drinking fermented tea (kombucha) is associated with lower (fasting) blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
After drinking a cup of kombucha daily for four weeks, participants’ average fasting blood glucose levels decreased from 164 to 116 milligrams per decilitre.
Improved Gut Health: Kombucha is a fermented tea, rich in natural probiotics. These beneficial bacteria can promote a healthier gut, potentially aiding digestion and nutrient absorption, which can be beneficial for those with diabetes.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for diabetes management. Kombucha is a low-calorie beverage that can serve as a healthier alternative to sugary sodas and juices, potentially supporting weight control. Check out or blog post on how Booyah Vitality drinks can aid with weight loss for more information.
Antioxidant Properties: Kombucha is known to contain antioxidants, which can help combat oxidative stress and inflammation, both of which are linked to diabetes complications.
Liver Health: Some research suggests that kombucha may support liver function, which is important for metabolizing glucose and regulating blood sugar.
Reduced Sugar Intake: Kombucha can be a satisfying, slightly sweet beverage without the need for added sugars, making it a suitable choice for those trying to reduce their sugar intake. Many studies show that green tea (what Booyah Kombucha is made of) can actuallu reduce the risk of developing diabetes. One study in Japan showed that drinking enough green tea could reduce your risk of developing diabetes by 33%.
So, go with your gut feeling and grab a bottle of Booyah!
It's important to note that individual responses to kombucha can vary, and its effects on blood sugar can depend on factors like the brewing process and the presence of residual sugars. People with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar levels carefully when introducing kombucha into their diet and consult with a healthcare provider for personalised advice.