Why I’m Loving Kombucha Lately (And Why You Might, Too)

From gut love to feel-good fizz—here’s why kombucha is the vibe right now.

My Kombucha Story

I first discovered kombucha in 2016. I was walking through Walmart, curious about new drinks, when I spotted this mysterious bottle with floating strands inside. Intrigued (and slightly unsure), I tossed it in my cart. One sip later, I was hooked. It tasted like the edgy, health-conscious cousin of soda—bubbly, tangy, and surprisingly refreshing.

Fast forward to July 20, 2025—just two weeks ago. I ended up with a brutal case of food poisoning from improperly cooked oysters at a well-known restaurant. My first instinct? Reach for ginger ale—because that’s what we’ve always been told to do. But it barely helped. As I recovered, the one thing I craved was kombucha. Its fizzy, probiotic-packed goodness felt like exactly what my body needed to bounce back. That moment sealed it: kombucha officially became my go-to wellness drink.

10 Reasons I’m Team Kombucha

1. Gut-friendly magic – Loaded with probiotics, it supports healthy digestion and balances the gut.

2. A bubbly upgrade – The satisfying fizz without the sugar bomb of traditional sodas.

3. A gentle pick-me-up – A mix of natural caffeine and B vitamins for energy without jitters.

4. Antioxidant power – Packed with polyphenols to help fight inflammation and cellular stress.

5. Liver support – Early studies hint kombucha may help your liver’s natural detoxification process.

6. Blood sugar balance – Some research suggests it may help regulate post-meal spikes.

7. Built-in bacteria fighter – The acetic acid offers a natural antimicrobial punch.

8. Endless flavors – Ginger lemon, berry hibiscus, pineapple basil—it’s a flavor adventure every time.

9. Mocktail MVP – Mix it with herbs or fruit for a chic, low-sugar alternative to cocktails.

10. Mindful sipping – Cracking one open feels like pressing pause—a small, intentional self-care ritual.

Photo Credit: Health-Ade Website

Backed by Research

Health experts are also paying attention. In a piece by Maggie O’Neill, a New York-based freelance writer and editor specializing in medical research and addiction, she examines how kombucha’s probiotics can impact gut health and indirectly support weight management. According to O’Neill, maintaining a balanced gut microbiome can reduce inflammation and improve digestion, both of which are linked to a healthier metabolism and better weight control. This digestive support may also help reduce cravings and stabilize energy levels, making it easier to make healthier food choices.

She emphasizes that while kombucha alone isn’t a weight loss solution, its role in gut health creates a ripple effect that benefits the whole body. When paired with mindful eating and a balanced lifestyle, it may serve as a small but meaningful addition to a wellness routine. The key takeaway? Kombucha works best as part of a bigger picture: nourishing your body, supporting gut health, and making choices that build sustainable habits over time.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Kombucha isn’t a cure-all; it works best as part of a healthy lifestyle.

• Start with small amounts (around 4 oz a day) to see how your body responds.

• Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, kids, and those with compromised immune systems should check with their doctor first.

• Be mindful of sugar content—different brands and flavors can vary widely.

• Homemade kombucha carries more risk if brewed incorrectly, so stick to trusted recipes or commercial brands if you’re new. Maybe one day I’ll attempt to make it homemade, but for now, I’m leaving it to the pros!

Why I Keep Coming Back

For me, kombucha isn’t just a drink—it’s become a ritual. From discovering it in 2016 to sipping it after recovering from food poisoning just two weeks ago, it’s been a steady part of how I care for myself.

If you’ve been curious, here’s your sign: grab a bottle, take a sip, and see what all the hype is about. You might just find yourself joining Team Kombucha, too.