Recent studies propose that kombucha may have the potential to lower blood glucose levels in people diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes. Researchers hypothesize that the consumption of this well-liked fermented beverage could offer a strategy for regulating the increasing levels of blood sugar in affected individuals.
Kombucha could help manage blood sugar levels in diabetic individuals
A joint research project carried out by researchers from the University of Nebraska, Georgetown University, and the not-for-profit healthcare institution MedStar Health demonstrated that the consumption of a daily eight-ounce serving of kombucha across a span of four weeks led to a decrease in blood sugar levels among the participants. In contrast, individuals with diabetes who consumed an identical quantity of a placebo drink designed to mimic the taste of kombucha did not observe any discernible alterations in their blood sugar levels.
The yeast and bacteria containing beverage, known to have originated around 200 BC in China, gained popularity in the US during the 1990s. Its appeal in the West is driven by beliefs of immunity and energy enhancement, reduced food cravings, and gut inflammation relief. Yet, these claims lack significant scientific evidence and remain mostly anecdotal.
Kombucha reduced blood sugar levels in non-diabetic individuals
Georgetown University School of Health’s Professor Dan Merenstein said that some rodent and lab studies of kombucha have been promising and a small study in individuals without diabetes demonstrated that kombucha led to low blood sugar. Merenstien added that to them this is the first clinical study evaluating the effects of kombucha in diabetic people. However more studies are necessary despite the latest findings being promising.
n the research, one group drank eight ounces of kombucha for four weeks, and the other group had a placebo drink. After a two-month break, the groups swapped drinks. The participants didn’t know which drink they had. Results showed that kombucha lowered average fasting blood glucose levels from 164 to 116 milligrams per decilitre in four weeks, while the placebo had no notable impact. The American Diabetes Association recommends pre-meal blood sugar levels between 70 and 130 milligrams per decilitre.
