Is Kombucha compatible with breastfeeding? Do we have alternatives for Kombucha?

Kombucha

June 17, 2017 (High Risk)

A drink produced from tea and sugar or fermented honey with a mixed culture of certain bacteria and yeast.

None of the therapeutic properties which are attributed to it have been scientifically proven (Ernst 2003, Majchrowicz 1995, Hauser 1990).
There is little published literature and even less relating to its effects on humans.
Hepatic damage, metabolic acidosis, cutaneous infection from anthrax and even death have occurred in relation to its consumption (Gemela 2016, SungHee 2009, Derk 2004, Srinivasan 1997, CDC 1995, Crit Path AIDS 1994).

Since the last update we have found no published data on its excretion in breast milk.

The lack of literature and its potential toxicity added to the lack of precise therapeutic indications makes it a totally non-essential product, especially during the period of breastfeeding.

Very Low Risk

Compatible. Not risky for breastfeeding or infant.

Low Risk

Moderately safe. Mild risk possible. Follow up recommended. Read the Comment.

High Risk

Poorly safe. Evaluate carefully. Use a safer alternative. Read the Comment.

Very High Risk

Not recommended. Cessation of breastfeeding or alternative.

Synonyms

  • Japanese Tea Fungus
  • Manchurian mushroom
  • Mushroom tea

Writings

  • Κομπούχα (Greek)
  • 红茶菌 (Chinese)
  • 紅茶キノコ (Japanese)

References

  1. Gedela M, Potu KC, Gali VL, Alyamany K, Jha LK. A Case of Hepatotoxicity Related to Kombucha Tea Consumption. S D Med. 2016Abstract
  2. SungHee Kole A, Jones HD, Christensen R, Gladstein J. A case of Kombucha tea toxicity. J Intensive Care Med. 2009Abstract
  3. Derk CT, Sandorfi N, Curtis MT. A case of anti-Jo1 myositis with pleural effusions and pericardial tamponade developing after exposure to a fermented Kombucha beverage. Clin Rheumatol. 2004Abstract
  4. Ernst E. Kombucha: a systematic review of the clinical evidence. Forsch Komplementarmed Klass Naturheilkd. 2003Abstract
  5. Srinivasan R, Smolinske S, Greenbaum D. Probable gastrointestinal toxicity of Kombucha tea: is this beverage healthy or harmful? J Gen Intern Med. 1997Abstract
  6. Majchrowicz M. Kombucha: a dubious "cure". GMHC Treat Issues. 1995Abstract
  7. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).. Unexplained severe illness possibly associated with consumption of Kombucha tea--Iowa, 1995. MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep. 1995Abstract
  8. [No authors listed] Kombucha--toxicity alert. Crit Path AIDS Proj. 1994Abstract
  9. Hauser SP. [Dr. Sklenar's Kombucha mushroom infusion--a biological cancer therapy. Documentation No. 18]. Schweiz Rundsch Med Prax. 1990Abstract