Here’s how kombucha could boost your skin barrier support regimen! First of all though…
Why is kombucha so expensive?
Kombucha is an on-the-go treat for the health enthusiasts and a tolerable substitute for many soda lovers. But, why is it expensive? While not all kombuchas are expensive, especially if they’re store brand, it’s common to find several around or just above $5.
Honestly, one of the largest reasons for the price is its market positioning. As kombucha companies tout the many benefits with flavor names like “elixir,” consumers go for it and are willing to pay for the supposed benefits. Essentially, the demand drives up the price.
But, there are some real costs like time-consuming fermentation, glass bottles, controlled temperature, and on occasion, pressed juice plus raw teas are included.
But, is Kombucha worth it? Here are 3 factors to consider.
Kombucha is a more low-key source of caffeine.
Kombucha often includes caffeinated teas like black tea, green tea, and oolong. These can be a great substitute for a serving of coffee, and it’s certainly a better option than an energy drink. With moderation, coffee is fine, but drinking too much coffee can cause anxiety, heart palpitations, and withdrawals. Caffeine withdrawal can cause redness, flushing, and itchiness, which ultimately may pose a challenge for those with rosacea, psoriasis, and even eczema.
Gut health and boosting the body's anti-inflammatory processes
Did you know that poor digestion plays a part in skin conditions like acne, eczema, and rosacea? Because of “the gut-skin axis,” gut bacteria imbalances can cause the presentation of skin inflammation.
Read more here about the "gut-skin-axis."
Fortunately, Kombucha contains lactobacillus, acetobacter, gluconobacter, and komagataelbacter. These are all extremely helpful bacterium. Kombucha can help with digestion, promote healthy gut microbiota, and along with a healthy diet, the polyphenols (plant compounds found in tea and juice) can help with low-grade inflammation and give a sense of calm.
Antioxidants and Adaptogens
Kombucha is loaded with antioxidants, and some even have adaptogens. Consuming antioxidants protects the body from DNA and cell-damaging particles. When it comes to the body and skin, eating a diet rich in antioxidants can definitely support barrier function. This is not to say that kombucha alone supports barrier function, but it can be a great add-on to a nutritious diet.
Moreover, some kombuchas even contain adaptogens like reishi mushroom. Adaptogens work by interacting with the body's stress response system, and they help the body adapt to stressors.
But, it's expensive.
Compared to the colorful, shiny glass bottles at the supermarket, did you know there are more accessible but equally functional options?
Liquid I.V.® Hydration Multiplier® + Probiotic Kombucha - Tart Green Apple - Hydration Powder
$24.99 (14 sticks/14+ bottles)
Ingredients: Cane Sugar, Dextrose, Citric Acid, Salt, Potassium Citrate, Sodium Citrate, Fermented Tea Vinegar Powder (Maltodextrin, Tea Vinegar, Gum Arabic), Dipotassium Phosphate, Silicon Dioxide, Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid), Probiotic (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30 6086®), Stevia Leaf Extract (Rebaudioside A), Malic Acid, Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide), Natural Flavors, Vitamin B5 (Calcium D-Pantothenate), Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine Hydrochloride), Vitamin B12 (Cyanocobalamin).
Not only does this have bacillus, it has niacinamide, panthenol, and vitamin B12. These vitamins also support the body's efforts to prevent inflammation. This also has that hallmark tart kombucha taste we love while being refreshing. If you want bubbles, you can even add it to sparkling water! This may not include pressed juice, but simply keep eating fruit, and you’ll have all of your kombucha benefits!
Sources:
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9975612/
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10891670/
Cover photo cred: Welltech