At Scoby Doo, we love kombucha—but we also believe in informed choices. While kombucha is safe for most people, it's not for everyone. Here's an honest look at potential side effects and who should be cautious.
Important Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and doesn't replace medical advice. If you have health conditions, consult your doctor before trying kombucha.
Common Side Effects (Usually Mild)
When first starting kombucha, some people experience:
1. Digestive Discomfort
Bloating, gas, or upset stomach can occur as your gut adjusts to the influx of probiotics. This usually resolves within 1-2 weeks.
Solution: Start with 100ml daily and increase gradually.
2. Headaches
Some people report headaches initially, possibly due to detox effects or caffeine sensitivity.
Solution: Stay hydrated and start with smaller amounts.
3. Nausea
Drinking too much too fast, especially on an empty stomach, can cause nausea.
Solution: Drink slowly and consider having it with food.
Who Should Avoid Kombucha?
❌ Pregnant & Breastfeeding Women
Kombucha contains trace alcohol (0.5% or less), caffeine, and live bacteria. While amounts are small, most doctors advise caution. Consult your OB-GYN.
❌ People with Compromised Immune Systems
Those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, or people with HIV/AIDS should avoid unpasteurized fermented beverages including kombucha, as the bacteria could potentially cause infection.
❌ Children Under 4 Years
Young children's digestive systems are still developing. The acidity and caffeine in kombucha aren't ideal for them.
Who Should Be Cautious?
People with Diabetes
Kombucha contains sugar, though much less than soda. If you have diabetes, choose low-sugar varieties (like Scoby Doo) and monitor your blood sugar. Some diabetics find kombucha helpful for blood sugar regulation—but check with your doctor first.
Those with Acid Reflux/GERD
Kombucha is acidic (pH 2.5-3.5). If you have severe acid reflux, this acidity might worsen symptoms for some people. Start with small amounts to test tolerance.
People Taking Certain Medications
The probiotics and acidity in kombucha could potentially interact with:
- Immunosuppressants
- Blood thinners (vitamin K content)
- Diabetes medications
Always consult your doctor if you're on regular medication.
Recovering Alcoholics
While kombucha's alcohol content is typically under 0.5% (legally non-alcoholic), some individuals in recovery prefer to avoid it entirely as a personal choice.
Addressing Common Concerns
Does Kombucha Contain Alcohol?
Yes, trace amounts (usually 0.5% or less)—similar to ripe fruit or bread. This is legally considered non-alcoholic and won't make you intoxicated. However, poorly made or over-fermented kombucha can have higher alcohol content.
Can Kombucha Cause Liver Damage?
There have been rare case reports, but these typically involved home-brewed kombucha with contamination issues or people consuming excessive amounts. Commercial craft kombucha like Scoby Doo, made in controlled conditions, is safe for healthy individuals.
Is the Caffeine a Problem?
Kombucha contains about 10-25mg caffeine per 250ml (compared to 95mg in coffee). If you're highly caffeine-sensitive, avoid drinking it late in the day.
✅ Kombucha IS Safe For Most People!
If you're a healthy adult without the conditions mentioned above, kombucha is generally safe and beneficial. Millions of people worldwide enjoy it daily without issues. The key is moderation and quality.
How to Drink Kombucha Safely
- Start small: 100ml per day for the first week
- Choose quality: Buy from reputable brands (like Scoby Doo!) with good manufacturing practices
- Keep it cold: Always refrigerate to prevent over-fermentation
- Moderate intake: 200-400ml daily is typical; avoid exceeding 500ml
- Listen to your body: If something feels off, reduce or stop
Why We're Transparent
At Scoby Doo, we could pretend kombucha is a magic elixir with zero downsides. But we respect our customers too much for that. Kombucha is wonderful—for the right people, in the right amounts.
We brew kombucha in controlled conditions with strict quality standards to minimize risks. Our products are clearly labeled, properly refrigerated, and made for informed consumers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can kombucha make you sick?
For most people, kombucha is safe. However, drinking too much too quickly can cause digestive discomfort, bloating, or nausea - especially for first-timers. Start with small amounts (100ml) and increase gradually.
Who should not drink kombucha?
People who should avoid or limit kombucha include: pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 4 years, those with compromised immune systems, people with severe gut conditions, and those with alcohol sensitivity.
Is kombucha bad for your liver?
For healthy individuals, kombucha is not bad for the liver and may even support liver health through its antioxidants. However, people with existing liver conditions should consult their doctor.
Can I drink kombucha every day?
Yes, most healthy adults can drink kombucha daily. Regular consumption is recommended for consistent probiotic benefits. Stick to 200-350ml per day.
The Bottom Line
Kombucha is safe and beneficial for most healthy adults. However, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, young children, and people with certain health conditions should consult a doctor first.
For everyone else: start slow, choose quality, and enjoy the many benefits of this ancient probiotic drink!
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before making dietary changes, especially if you have existing health conditions.