Castelo Branco

Researchers are investigating the effects of kombucha, a fermented tea beverage, on individuals who are overweight or have class 1 obesity. The study focuses on how kombucha impacts gut microbiota composition, metabolic parameters such as glucose and insulin levels, lipid profiles, and liver function. Previous animal studies suggested potential benefits, but this clinical study aims to provide stronger evidence in humans through a randomized controlled pilot trial. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: one group will consume 33 cl of live (non-pasteurized, non-filtered) kombucha daily, another will consume 33 cl of pasteurized kombucha daily, and the control group will receive 33 cl of sparkling water daily. Each intervention lasts for 4 weeks (28 days), allowing comparison between the effects of live versus pasteurized kombucha and the control on health markers. During the 4-week study, participants will provide fecal samples to analyze gut microbiota changes and undergo measurements of fasting glucose, insulin levels, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), and lipid profiles. The study will monitor these outcomes to evaluate the metabolic and microbiome effects of kombucha consumption. Participants must comply with the study protocol and attend scheduled assessments throughout the study period.