CAN CHILDREN DRINK KOMBUCHA?

CAN CHILDREN DRINK KOMBUCHA?

Some people drink kombucha for the many health benefits it provides, but do you know if it is safe and healthy for children? There are a few factors to consider before deciding if consuming kombucha is right for your child. In this article, we'll review why kombuchas can be a great alternative to sugary drinks, as well as potential health concerns to be aware of before serving your little one their first sip.

WHAT IS KOMBUCHA?

Kombucha is a sparkling beverage made by fermenting tea and sugar with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). Kombucha is made up of live cultures, organic acids, and antioxidants that aid digestion and support the immune system. Real kombucha (like Austin Kombucha) is raw, unpasteurized, and full of good bacteria and yeast that is very potent.

At Austin-Kombucha we believe that the most important thing we can do is share our love of kombucha with you. Our flavors are carefully crafted by combining various herbs, spices, and fruits to ensure each bottle is delicious and energizing.

THE POWER OF KOMBUCHA

A healthy alternative to sugary soft drinksKombucha is low in sugar and packed with live cultures that support your immune system. It's also great for digestion!

Live Cultures: Produced through SCOBY fermentation, the good bacteria and yeast found in the intestines support digestion, immunity, and mental health.

Antioxidants: The teas and herbs that kombucha is made from are full of antioxidants that help protect the body's cells from potential damage.

Organic acids: Organic acids such as gluconic, glucuronic and acetic acids help balance the PH of the digestive system and allow the minerals consumed to be bioavailable. They are also known to detoxify the liver and help with digestion.

good bacteria: Austin-Kombucha is not pasteurized; enzymes, organic acids, antioxidants, and good yeasts and bacteria are left intact.

Gut health: Live cultures, antioxidants, and organic acids play an essential role in gut health.

COMMON QUESTIONS PARENTS HAVE

Sugar-free drinks for children are often a disappointment, as children only drink them if they taste good. That's where kombucha comes in! Kombucha tastes good for both adults and children, while also being packed with antioxidants and live cultures. However, there are some common questions that parents ask before introducing their children to this wonderful beverage.

HOW MUCH SUGAR IS IN A KOMBUCHA?
A pinch of sugar is essential for our fermentation process. Without it, the kombucha couldn't ferment! The crops consume that sugar and release CO2 (the bubbles) and ethanol (alcohol).

Our flavors have only 2 grams of sugar per serving. Compared to a glass of orange juice which contains about 24g of sugar, kombucha is the clear winner.

HOW MUCH CAFFEINE IS IN KOMBUCHA?
Kombucha is very low in caffeine, but it does have a little, due to the green tea. The average amount of caffeine found in kombucha is about 15mg per serving, even those sensitive to the substance would hardly notice a difference if they drank this tea regularly! Caffeine content can vary depending on the type of tea used in the fermentation process; however, it is nowhere near the amount found in a cup of coffee or tea.

HOW MUCH ALCOHOL IS IN KOMBUCHA?
Naturally, the most common question for parents is how much alcohol is in kombucha. As it is a fermented product, there are some traces of alcohol present in the drink. However, it is a negligible amount. Kombucha sold in stores must stay below 0.5% alcohol. This is the reason why kombucha is a drink categorized as soft drink. 

IS IT OKAY FOR CHILDREN TO DRINK KOMBUCHA?
As long as it's brewed correctly to control the amount of alcohol, kombucha is a great beverage choice for kids. Not only is it a low-sugar alternative to sugary sodas and fruit juices, it also offers excellent nutritional value! Austin Kombucha features unique flavors that kids will love, and they'll probably never guess how healthy it is.

WHY YOU SHOULD AVOID HOME-BREWED KOMBUCHA
Studies have shown that homemade kombucha can reach alcohol levels as high as 3-5%, about the same as a medium strength beer. That's not something you want to give your kids! If you're hesitant to serve your kids homemade kombucha because of its alcohol content, it's best to buy it at the store.