Kombucha, a fermented tea, has gained significant attention for its potential health benefits, particularly for gut health and metabolic balance. Despite its popularity, research on its effects in humans, especially among individuals with excess body weight, remains limited. A recent randomized controlled trial published in the journal Foods aimed to bridge this gap by investigating how green tea kombucha (GTK) affects gut microbiota, intestinal health, and metabolism during weight loss.
The findings suggest that while GTK did not significantly alter gut microbiota or intestinal permeability, it improved gastrointestinal symptoms and influenced specific serum metabolites associated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
The Science Behind Kombucha
Kombucha is produced by fermenting tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). It contains bioactive compounds, such as phenolic acids, organic acids, and vitamins, that are believed to promote gut health and support metabolic functions.
For individuals with excess body weight, gut microbiota often shows reduced diversity and imbalances, contributing to inflammation and metabolic disorders. Previous studies in animal models have suggested that kombucha might alleviate gut dysbiosis and strengthen the intestinal barrier. However, this is one of the first human studies to evaluate GTK’s impact on gut and metabolic health in the context of an energy-restricted diet.
Study Design: Kombucha and Weight Loss
The trial included 75 participants with excess body weight (BMI ≥ 27 kg/m²), divided into two groups:
- Control Group (CG): Followed an energy-restricted healthy diet.
- Kombucha Group (KG): Followed the same diet with an additional 200 mL of GTK daily for 10 weeks.
The GTK used in the study was made in-house and standardized to contain probiotics at 1 billion colony-forming units per serving. Physical activity and dietary habits were monitored throughout the study.
Researchers evaluated changes in gut microbiota, intestinal health, serum metabolomics, and gastrointestinal symptoms using a combination of questionnaires, biological samples, and metabolic tests.
Key Findings
- Weight Loss and Body Composition
Both groups experienced similar weight loss and improvements in body composition, demonstrating that GTK did not directly influence weight outcomes. - Gut Microbiota Trends
Although GTK did not significantly alter gut microbiota composition, trends emerged:- Increased beneficial Romboutsia bacteria.
- Decreased potentially harmful Alistipes.
These findings suggest subtle modulation of gut microbiota by GTK.
- Gastrointestinal Health
- Participants consuming GTK reported significant improvements in gastrointestinal symptoms, particularly relief from hard stools and incomplete bowel movements.
- Stool consistency improved in the KG, with a notable shift towards type 4 (normal) stool.
- Intestinal Permeability
- The CG exhibited worsening intestinal permeability markers, such as increased zonulin and fecal pH.
- The KG showed stability in these parameters, suggesting kombucha might help prevent negative changes during weight loss.
- Serum Metabolomics
GTK consumption influenced 25 metabolites associated with amino acid and fatty acid metabolism. Notable metabolites included diethyl malonate and taurine, which are linked to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant pathways. Correlations were observed between these metabolites and specific gut bacteria, indicating a potential gut-metabolite interaction.
Implications for Health
The study highlights several potential benefits of GTK during weight loss:
- Improved Gut Health: By relieving gastrointestinal symptoms and stabilizing intestinal permeability, kombucha may support digestive comfort.
- Enhanced Metabolic Pathways: The impact on serum metabolites suggests GTK could promote anti-inflammatory and antioxidant processes, contributing to better metabolic health.
However, the study did not find significant changes in gut microbiota composition or intestinal barrier function, suggesting that kombucha’s effects may be more subtle or require a longer intervention period to fully manifest.
Limitations and Future Research
While the study’s rigorous design adds credibility, some limitations include:
- Small Sample Size: A larger cohort may provide more robust insights.
- Use of In-House GTK: The results may differ from those using commercial kombucha products, limiting generalizability.
- Short Duration: A longer study period might reveal additional benefits or changes.
Future studies should explore the long-term effects of kombucha on gut health and metabolism, including its impact on gut microbiota diversity and specific health outcomes in diverse populations.
Conclusion: Kombucha as a Complement to Weight Loss
This study offers promising insights into the role of green tea kombucha in supporting gut health and metabolism during weight loss. While GTK did not significantly alter gut microbiota, it improved gastrointestinal symptoms and influenced metabolites linked to anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
For individuals with excess body weight, incorporating GTK alongside a healthy, energy-restricted diet may enhance digestive comfort and metabolic health, offering a holistic approach to weight management.
Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20241118/Green-tea-kombucha-could-transform-your-gut-and-boost-your-weight-loss-journey.aspx
