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Drink It In: A New Era of Healthy Drinks

Monday, 16 September 2024 08:00

By Adele Trathan

Step aside water! We’re living in a new era of healthy drinks. So what are these liquid life-extenders garnering an increasing presence in the supermarket, Adele Trathan investigates the health benefits

Kombucha, kefir, probiotic, and prebiotic drinks are all choices for those looking to support their digestive health and overall well-being. Packed with ingredients to positively impact the gut and immune system, their popularity is soaring in the UK. So what are they and how can they help your gut health?

 

KOMBUCHA

Kombucha is a fermented tea that has been enjoyed for centuries and made by adding a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY) to sweetened tea. The fermentation process creates a fizzy, tangy drink, rich in probiotics – live microorganisms that promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria.

They can improve digestion, boost the immune system, and even enhance mental health. Kombucha also contains antioxidants which are proven to help detoxify the body.

 

KEFIR

Kefir is a fermented milk drink similar to yoghurt, but with a thinner consistency. It is made by adding kefir grains – a combination of bacteria and yeast – to milk. This process results in a drink that is full of probiotics, vitamins, and minerals.

Kefir is known for its potential to improve digestion, and is especially good for those who are lactose intolerant, as the fermentation process breaks down much of the lactose in the milk. It also supports the immune system, and can contribute to stronger bones due to its high calcium content.

 

PROBIOTIC DRINKS

While kombucha and kefir are both probiotics, there are many more on the market, from yoghurt drinks to juices and specially formulated beverages. Again, the secret is in the way they are infused with live cultures of beneficial bacteria, and the main benefit is in balancing the gut microbiome, something that’s crucial for effective digestion, nutrient absorption, and a robust immune system.

Regular consumption can help prevent gastrointestinal issues such as bloating, constipation, and diarrhoea.

 

PREBIOTIC DRINKS

Prebiotics contain ingredients to nourish the good bacteria already present in your gut. Unlike probiotics, which introduce new bacteria, prebiotics provide the food that helps existing beneficial bacteria thrive.

Common prebiotics include fibres found in foods such as chicory root, garlic, and bananas. By fostering a healthy environment for gut bacteria, prebiotics can enhance digestion, improve metabolic health, and support the immune system.

 

OTHERS

Various other fermented and functional beverages are gaining popularity for their health benefits. For example, kvass, a traditional Slavic drink mix from fermented rye bread; and tepache, a Mexican drink made from fermented pineapple; offer similar probiotic benefits, not only supporting digestive health but also adding variety to dietary options.

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