healthy eating

How Kombucha Can Benefit Your Body | Nadia La Russa

How Kombucha Can Benefit Your Body

If you know me, then chances are, the topic of kombucha and gut health has come up once or twice. Not only do I own two fermentary businesses in Thunder Bay, but I also regularly brew kombucha and create other delicious fermented foods. If you’re interested in learning more about how kombucha can benefit your body, read below for a detailed breakdown, and of course, reach out to me if you have any questions at all!

So, what exactly is kombucha?

Kombucha is a fermented tea that originated in China and is believed to have healing powers that bring health and longevity. Kombucha also contains antioxidants and is rich in probiotics, which means it can also kill harmful bacteria and fight multiple diseases.

Keep on reading to learn about some of the different ways kombucha can help you!

Kombucha can be as beneficial as green tea

Green tea is one of the healthiest drinks on the planet because it contains micronutrients such as polyphenols which act as a powerful antioxidant in the body. Some kombucha is made from green tea, such as this Plain Jane Kombucha blend from Narrow Gate Foods, which includes the same micronutrients and can give you the same benefits.

Many studies have shown that regularly drinking green tea can help your body burn more calories, reduce belly fat, improve cholesterol levels, and more. Adding kombucha to your diet can give you those same benefits as green tea.

Kombucha contains antioxidants

Antioxidants protect your cells against free radicals, which may play a role in heart disease and more. Free radicals are produced when your body breaks down food or when your body is exposed to different toxins. Scientists believe that antioxidants from foods and beverages are way better for your health than any supplements. 

Kombucha, especially when it’s made with green tea, has antioxidant effects on your liver, and recent animal studies show that consistently drinking kombucha can reduce liver toxicity by almost 70%.

Although no human studies currently exist on this topic, there are many promising fields of research for people with liver disease. 

Kombucha is an excellent source of Vitamin B12

Did you know that kombucha is an excellent source of vitamin B12? That’s right! B12 is an essential nutrient to have in your body because without it, you might feel fatigued, weak, experience gastrointestinal disturbances, and more. B12 can be found in many types of meat and animal products, but if you are a vegetarian or vegan, Kombucha is a great option.

Fermented beverages like kombucha are rich in B12, and regular consumption will ensure that your level of B12 is high. 

Kombucha is an excellent source of probiotics

Probiotics are found in many fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut, and since kombucha is a fermented product, you can find several probiotics bacteria in it. Probiotic bacteria can help balance the gut microbiome and improve digestion, inflammation and even help with weight loss. Who doesn’t want that?

If you’re looking to improve your health, then I suggest you add kombucha to your diet! It’s a healthy alternative to many other beverages like sodas or juice and also comes in many refreshing flavours, and they taste great! Here is a list of my favourites (if you’re in Thunder Bay or anywhere else in Ontario, be sure to check them out!): 

These kombuchas are great if you’re just trying kombucha for the first time:

In Health and Wellness,

Nadia La Russa

Click here to learn more about Narrow Gate Foods, my small-batch, big-love fermentery in Thunder Bay, Ontario. Click here to learn more about Kumbaya Kombucha, another fermentery in Thunder Bay that I recently purchased.

Foods To Give You Energy | Nadia La Russa

Foods To Give You Energy, Written By A Serial Entrepreneur + Busy Mom

You need loads of energy to get through your day. When you feel like slacking or low on energy, you most likely need to get some nutrient-dense foods in your system. Here are some foods that will give you a quick boost of lasting energy without the crash. Written by a serial entrepreneur who needs as much energy as she can get!

Oatmeal

Oatmeal is one of the easiest and most delicious meals ever. Oatmeal contains the healthy type of carbs that are a great source of energy. They help metabolize the energy in your body by providing nutrients like vitamin B, thiamine, folate and niacin. Oatmeal is personalized energy! You can throw in whatever ingredients you like. To enjoy a warm bowl of delicious oatmeal, try this recipe:

Boil two scoops of oatmeal in a pinch of salt, a cup of water, and two tablespoons of peanut butter. Cook until the water is absorbed and it looks a little soupy. You can even sprinkle some black pepper on the top for additional taste and seasoning.

Eggs

Eggs can provide 30% of the protein your body requires and help strengthen and build your muscles. You can use eggs however you like. You can make an omelet, scramble them up, or simply hard-boil them.

Yogurt

Yogurt may be an easy thing to snack on, but it also provides your body with an incredible amount of energy. It’s milk, lactose, and low sugar levels are responsible for the energy, and the protein helps slow food digestion so you can store the energy for a longer period of time.

Shrimp

Shrimp is rich in vitamin B12 and very low in calories. Vitamin B12 helps your body produce energy at a much faster rate. Shrimp also contains omega 3 fatty acids, which help boost your mood and your energy levels.

Hummus

This Mediterranean dish is made from various herbs, spices, and chickpeas. It also contains olive oil, lemon juice, and sesame seed paste. These ingredients provide the nutrients and healthy carbs needed to help our bodies produce energy.  They also contain healthy fats and protein, which means that you will be able to store that energy for a longer period of time. 

Strawberries

Strawberries contain natural fructose, which gives you a quick yet sustainable boost of energy. You eat them raw or add them to your oatmeal, acai bowls or smoothies.

Spinach

Mitochondria are the powerhouse of cells. Spinach contains nitrates that are responsible for improving the efficiency of mitochondria, helping provide energy to your cells.

Bananas

Bananas not only provide your body with energy but also help in storing it. They make a perfect snack before you head to the gym. 

Try adding some of these foods to your diet to boost your energy levels and power up your body’s performance!

If you would like to learn more about myself and my local entrepreneurship, click here.

If you would like to learn more about my Take Control Weight Loss Program, click here.

Yours in health and wellness,

Nadia La Russa