Kombucha is a popular fermented beverage made from tea, sugar, and probiotics. It offers several potential health benefits, including reduced blood pressure.
Drinking kombucha regularly may lower blood pressure over time. Kombucha is an excellent source of antioxidants. It contains polyphenols called flavonoids and catechins. These antioxidants have an anti-inflammatory effect, which may improve blood vessel health.
A 2021 study found that kombucha has antihypertensive effects, meaning that it may lower blood pressure and prevent high blood pressure (hypertension). When the blood vessels are inflamed, they cannot function properly. This increases the pressure inside them, raising blood pressure. Consuming more antioxidants in your diet may reduce inflammation, which can lower blood pressure.
The anti-inflammatory benefits of kombucha may improve heart health and lower the risk of certain chronic health conditions. Kombucha is often made from green tea, which helps decrease inflammation, prevent cell damage, and reduce cholesterol levels. People who regularly drink green tea are at a lower risk of heart disease.
Some studies have found that drinking kombucha can lower cholesterol levels. However, many of these studies have been conducted in animals. High-quality human studies are needed to determine if kombucha is helpful for high cholesterol.
If you’re interested in drinking kombucha for its potential blood pressure-lowering effects, talk with a healthcare provider to make sure it’s right for you. Also keep these things in mind:
- To incorporate kombucha into your diet, look for bottles of it at your local grocery or health food store. There are serious risks to brewing your own at home, including toxicity and infection. Drinking contaminated kombucha could cause damage to the heart, liver, and other organs. Never make your own kombucha at home or purchase it from a home brewer.
- Consider adding kombucha to your daily routine. It is a refreshing drink in the morning or could help you feel more energized during the afternoon slump.
- Other possible health benefits of kombucha include improved gut health and digestion, elevated mood and energy, and healthy weight management.
- When choosing a brand of kombucha, look for low-sugar varieties and those that do not contain added chemicals.
