Does Drinking Kombucha Cause Digestive Issues Like Diarrhea?

How Kombucha Impacts Digestion and Bowel Movements

Kombucha is a fermented tea drink that has become quite popular in recent years due to its purported health benefits. However, many people wonder - does kombucha make you poop? There is some evidence that kombucha may have laxative effects for some people when consumed in large quantities.

The Kombucha Fermentation Process Produces Acids and Gases

Kombucha is made by fermenting tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, commonly referred to as a SCOBY. During the fermentation process, the yeast and bacteria produce a range of compounds like organic acids, gases, alcohol, and B-vitamins.

The acids produced include glucuronic acid, gluconic acid, lactic acid, acetic acid, and trace amounts of alcohol. The gases produced can include carbon dioxide, hydrogen, methane, and nitrogen.

High Acid and Carbonation Levels Impact Digestion

The acids and carbonation created during fermentation are two of the reasons why kombucha may have a laxative effect for some people when large amounts are consumed.

The acids can accelerate gastric emptying, encouraging the quick passage of kombucha from the stomach into the small intestines. This can reduce nutrient absorption from the drink.

Carbonation causes gas and bloating, which puts pressure on the intestines. This stimulates peristalsis - contractions of the smooth intestinal muscles that move food through the bowels.

Certain Compounds and Ingredients Also Stimulate Bowel Movements

In addition to acids and carbonation, kombucha contains other substances and is often brewed with ingredients that can stimulate bowel movements through various mechanisms, including:

• Glucuronic acid - binds to toxins in the liver to be eliminated through bile and feces.
• Fructooligosaccharides (from added fruit juice) - indigestible carbs that feed gut bacteria which produce gas and short-chain fatty acids that stimulate bowel movements.
• Caffeine and tea polyphenols (from the tea base) - stimulate gastric acid secretion and colonic motor activity.
• Probiotic bacteria and yeasts - help balance gut flora and influence digestion.

Risk Factors for Kombucha Side Effects Like Diarrhea

While many people enjoy kombucha without issues, others may experience diarrhea and other gastrointestinal side effects when they drink too much. Those at higher risk include:

Consuming Excessive Amounts of Kombucha

Drinking more than 12 ounces (one and a half cups) of kombucha per day on a regular basis can increase the risk of side effects like gas, bloating, cramping, stomach pain, nausea, and diarrhea.

When kombucha intake exceeds the body's capacity to comfortably process the acids, gases, and other compounds produced during fermentation - GI issues can occur.

Underlying Digestive Problems

People with conditions like IBS, SIBO, celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease, diverticulitis, gastroparesis, peptic ulcers, and other sensitivities or damage related to the digestive system are more prone to experiencing diarrhea or other issues when ingesting fermented foods and drinks like kombucha in quantity.

Compromised Gut Flora

Individuals who have taken a course of antibiotics, deal with chronic stress, eat a poor diet, or have a gastrointestinal infection may have reduced populations of beneficial bacteria and yeasts in their gut microbiome involved in food breakdown and absorption.

They are typically more susceptible to chemical and microbiological changes related to fermented products until their intestinal flora is restored.

Other Potential Side Effects of Drinking Too Much Kombucha

In addition to gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea, consuming kombucha excessively on a regular basis may cause other problems for some people.

Lactic Acidosis

The lactic acid created by bacteria and yeast during the kombucha fermentation process can very rarely build up to dangerously high levels in the bloodstream when large amounts are consumed for long periods, leading to lactic acidosis. This can cause severe fatigue, muscle cramps, dizziness, breathing issues, and other symptoms.

Toxic Contamination

Improperly prepared homemade kombucha exposed to air for too long or made using impure ingredients may become contaminated with dangerous bacteria, molds, or high levels of alcohol - causing severe illness in rare cases.

Dental Enamel Erosion

The acids in kombucha may erode tooth enamel with frequent excessive consumption over time. This damage leaves teeth more prone to cavities, discoloration, and other issues.

Medication Interactions

The acids, probiotics, alcohol (up to 3% ABV typically), and other components may interfere with the efficacy of some medications through various mechanisms of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.

Groups Who Should Use Caution or Avoid Drinking Kombucha

While moderate kombucha intake is likely safe for most healthy adults, certain populations are better off abstaining from this fermented tea beverage or keeping consumption minimal.

Children

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children avoid kombucha due to concerns over contamination risks, effects on development, and more. Little research exists on kombucha's safety profile for young consumers.

Pregnant and Nursing Women

Components in kombucha may pose pregnancy complications or health issues for infants. Larger, well-controlled studies are needed to confirm the risks, but caution is currently recommended.

People with Compromised Immune Systems

Individuals with HIV/AIDS, autoimmune disorders, cancer, organ transplants taking immunosuppressant medications or with immune system damage from treatments like chemotherapy may be vulnerable to infection from kombucha due to contamination or negative interactions.

People with Digestive Disorders or Damage

Those with IBS, IBD, ulcers, SIBO, celiac, diverticulitis, hemorrhoids, and other GI conditions often see symptoms aggravated by fermented drinks. Healing gut damage first is recommended before trying kombucha.

People Taking Medications

As mentioned, kombucha may interfere with prescription or over-the-counter medications through various biological mechanisms. Consulting a pharmacist first is advised, and side effects should be monitored closely.

The Bottom Line

When consumed in moderation, kombucha is likely safe for most healthy people. However, excessive intake on a regular basis may cause side effects like diarrhea, gas, and bloating in those more sensitive to its acids, gases, and other active compounds. Those with underlying health, immune system, or medication issues should use caution or avoid drinking kombucha altogether.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.