Is Kefir Better For You Than Kombucha?
Kefir and kombucha are both fermented, probiotic drinks linked to a variety of health benefits. While the two beverages share some similarities, they have several key differences.
Kefir is made with fermented milk and kefir grains, which are not actually grains but rather a mixture of yeast and bacteria (via Healthline). Kefir is most commonly made with cow milk, but it can also be made with either non-dairy milk or water. Because Kefir is usually milk-based, it has a creamy texture and an often sour taste, depending on how much sugar is added.
Kombucha, on the other hand, is made with green or black tea, sugar, bacteria, and a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY), which sits and ferments for up to 14 days. Kombucha is carbonated and typically has a bitter taste, but the bitterness varies depending on the flavor.
The health benefits of kefir and kombucha
Kefir and kombucha contain a number of health benefits, but is one better than the other? As far as similarities go, kefir and kombucha are both beneficial for gut health (via Greatist). This is because the two beverages both contain probiotics, which can help improve your digestive system and overall health. Both drinks also contain vitamin A, which can help reduce inflammation and fight off disease.
Separately, however, kefir and kombucha offer up their own unique nutritional benefits. While kefir can help stimulate the immune system and lower cholesterol, kombucha can help regulate blood sugar and protect the liver (via Healthline). At the end of the day, kefir and kombucha are both fermented, probiotic drinks that aim to improve your overall health. One isn't objectively better than the other. Both drinks can be consumed in moderation. The best way to decide which drink is right for you is to read over the ingredients and determine which one is more closely aligned with your personal preference and dietary restrictions.