Kombucha has been gaining in popularity and popping up more and more around town. Bars are starting keep it on tap (be still, my heart) and you can now find it at major chains like Wal-Mart and Target. But did you know there are many reasons to drink kombucha every day? With its slew of health benefits and increasing availability, now’s a better time than ever to give kombucha a try.

So what is this funky sounding drink?

Kombucha is a fermented tea with live bacteria and a host of other body-loving properties. The tea is usually combined with fruit juices to create a range of flavors and health benefits. Your local health store likely has a rainbow-like case full of different brands and flavors. Each recipe is a little different, so check the ingredient label to know for sure what’s in the bottle.

[ctt template=”4″ link=”bhaLQ” via=”yes” ]Kombucha is a health powerhouse that boosts energy. [/ctt]

My affinity for kombucha is no secret. I’ve been drinking it for years and recently started taking it with me everywhere I go, including late night parties and office luncheons. Thankfully, I’m not alone in this. If you’re looking for a little more persuasion, here are 6 reasons to drink kombucha every day:

1. It’s good for your gut.

The fermented tea is full of probiotics, known to keep things moving in the digestive system – which also benefits your immune system, mental health, and overall feeling of well-being. It noticeably helps keep things on track.

2. It’s a health powerhouse that boosts energy.

The b-vitamins, enzymes, and beneficial acids all have health benefits, including a natural increase in energy, a reduction in inflammation, and the promotion of detoxification. I feel a lift in energy and mood after a drink, and it makes for a nice alternative to a cup of coffee in the afternoon.

3. It tastes amazing. Seriously!

GT’s Kombucha is my favorite – Gingerade, Gingerberry, and Trilogy are my top 3.

4. It soothes a stomach ache.

The bubbles from the fermentation have a calming effect on an unsettled stomach. I usually choose one with ginger for added benefit when this is the case.

5. It can replace your daily soda (pop).

It’s a treat that satisfies my sweet tooth. I can become a very irritable sugar-fiend when I’m eating too much sugar, so I like to keep my intake low. GT’s Gingerade and Trilogy kombucha flavors only have 2g sugar per serving (½ bottle), which is awesome. If I’m craving something sweet after dinner, I can usually have a few swigs of this and I’m good to go. (Note: check the labels for sugar content. Some brands add a lot of sugar – I steer clear of those.)

6. It’s the new party drink (that’s healthier than alcohol).

It’s helpful for sober times. I’ve taken month-long breaks from alcohol and when I do, my hand can feel a little lonely sans drink when I’m hanging with friends. I take kombucha to get-togethers because it feels indulgent, tastes amazing, and keeps my pretty little paw occupied in lieu of alcoholic beverages. And a bonus reason: It’s also great as a mixer! Whiskey ginger(ade), anyone?

Health Coach Tip:

Reasons 1 and 2 are benefits that I have both experienced and learned through my own studies. They are explained more scientifically here and here.

Now It’s Your Turn.

Well, friends, those are the top reasons why I love the stuff. Give it a try and hit me up with a comment if you dig it!

Madison Wise is a holistic health coach and journalist who explores health through personal thoughts, experimentation, and in-depth conversation. She believes in the healing art of self-expression and shares this through one-on-one coaching and intimate writing. She blurs the line between “good” and “bad,” and invites you to join her on her website or Instagram.