Although studies done on this gut-friendly beverage are limited, a 2019 study published in the journal Microorganisms found that the antioxidants and phenolic content in kombucha protect against free radical damage. Meanwhile, the beverage also inhibits pathogenic bacteria in the gut, namely Escherichia coli. E. coli, Shigella dysenteriae, Salmonella Typhi, and Vibrio cholera. The fizzy drink has also been thought to exert toxicity on colorectal cancer cells.
Research seems to indicate that the polyphenols found in this beverage could block gene mutation and cancel cell growth, while also promoting cancer cell death (per Comprehensive Reviews in Food Science and Food Safety). A 2013 study published in Biomedicine and Preventive Nutrition found that kombucha significantly decreased the survival of prostate cancer cells by suppressing the expression of angiogenesis stimulators, possibly helping to reduce blood supply to cancer cells. The study points toward this beverage’s potential to be a valuable tool for cancer treatment too, because of how your gut bacteria could restore your immune system.
According to a 2023 study published in Biochimica et Biophysica Acta (BBA) — Reviews on Cancer, gut-friendly fermented foods like kombucha could be beneficial in positively influencing gut microbiome diversity and reducing inflammation, two things that could help when it comes to immunotherapy and cancer treatment. However, more research is needed on kombucha’s role in preventing and treating cancer.