All the benefits of fermented drinks

They improve intestinal flora. They aid digestion. They strengthen the immune system. The best fermented drinks.

damage sorum Feq9p6c46 g unsplash scaled

Fermented drinks (such as Kombucha, Kefir or Kvass) are interesting above all for what they do at the intestinal and metabolic levelThree things in particular: they improve intestinal flora, aid digestion, and support the immune system. 

Intestinal flora

During fermentation, “good” bacteria (probiotics) develop.
These can:

  • help balance the microbiota 
  • promote more regular digestion
  • reduce swelling in some people 

Digestive health

Fermentation “pre-digests” some of the sugars and proteins.
Result:

  • drinks that are often lighter to drink 
  • useful after heavy meals (in small quantities) 

Immune system

Much of the immune system is connected to the gut.
A more balanced microbiota can contribute to a more efficient immune response (indirect, but real effect).

The best fermented drinks and also the ones with the most benefits are: 

  • Kombucha: It's a kind of "living tea." It's a sweetened tea fermented by a SCOBY (colony of bacteria and yeasts). It has a sour taste, is slightly fizzy, and contains organic acids, enzymes, and small amounts of caffeine. 
  • Water kefir: It's a light and refreshing fermented drink. It's made from sweetened water fermented with kefir grains (a community of bacteria and yeasts). It has a delicate, slightly acidic, and sparkling flavor and is lactose-free. It contains live microorganisms, organic acids, and small amounts of vitamins. 
  • chicha: typical of South America, made from corn, it is drunk cold or at room temperature, almost never chilled. It is often served in large glasses or traditional containers.
  • Milk kefir: It's milk-based, similar to drinkable yogurt. It's made from kefir grains, which convert lactose during fermentation. It has a tart flavor and a creamy texture. It's rich in live cultures, protein, calcium, and B vitamins. 
  • Tepache: Made from fermented pineapple, it has a sweet and slightly spicy flavor. It should be drunk very cold.
  • Kvass: It's a traditional fermented beverage made from rye bread. It's made by fermenting bread, water, and sugar with natural yeasts and bacteria. It has a slightly acidic flavor, with notes of bread and malt, and is slightly carbonated. It contains live microorganisms, organic acids, and traces of alcohol. 

Read also:

Want to see a selection of our news?