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Hindustan Times
4 days ago
- Health
- Hindustan Times
Hepatologist reveals truth about kombucha: ‘If brewed in unhygienic conditions it can cause…'
By incorporating probiotic-rich fermented foods into your diet, you may experience improved digestive health and overall well-being. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Chetan Kalal, consultant hepatologist and transplant physician at Saifee Hospital, said, 'For generations, Indian kitchens have quietly celebrated the art of fermentation — from the tangy bite of kanji to the comforting creaminess of homemade dahi.' Also read | How to brew your kombucha just right Love drinking kombucha? While fermented foods and kombucha may offer potential health benefits, it's essential to know that kombucha can be contaminated if not prepared properly. (Freepik) Dr Kalal added that kombucha, a fizzy fermented tea, has bubbled its way into cafés, health stores, and Instagram feeds – but behind the trend, what does science really say? The science behind kombucha Dr Kalal explained, 'Kombucha is brewed by fermenting sweetened tea with a symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast (SCOBY). This process produces probiotics, organic acids, and tea polyphenols. Probiotics help maintain a healthy gut microbiome, which is vital for digestion, nutrient absorption, immune balance, and even mood regulation through the gut-brain axis. Organic acids can discourage harmful bacteria, while tea antioxidants help reduce oxidative stress. These benefits aren't exclusive to kombucha.' He added, 'Research — including a 2021 Nature study — shows that regularly consuming a variety of fermented foods such as kefir, kimchi, miso, sauerkraut, and our own curd can increase gut microbial diversity, a marker of resilience and overall well-being.' What to watch out for when having kombucha According to Dr Kalal, 'kombucha isn't a magic potion'. He said: 'It is mildly acidic, contains residual sugar and caffeine, and — if brewed in unhygienic conditions — can cause health risks. People with weakened immunity, chronic liver disease, or those who are pregnant should seek medical advice before adding it to their diet. While early evidence is promising, most studies remain small, and more robust research is needed.' The bottom line According to Dr Kalal, when prepared safely and enjoyed in moderation, 'kombucha and other fermented foods can be a valuable addition to a balanced, fibre-rich diet'. 'They won't replace healthy eating habits — but, much like in traditional Indian households, they can quietly complement them for years to come,' he concluded. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Time of India
27-07-2025
- Time of India
Lodge manager booked for failing to submit guest details to police
Mumbai: The manager of a lodge in Andheri West, Sampat Kalal, was booked on Saturday for failing to submit guest details to the Mumbai police, according to a First Information Report (FIR) registered in Versova. The FIR was filed against Kalal for disobedience to orders duly promulgated by a public servant. However, Kalal was released after a notice was served to him on Saturday. The incident was discovered when the Anti-Terrorist Cell (ATC) of the Versova police conducted inspections of hotels and lodges to monitor anti-social elements. "During an inspection of the guest log book at the lodge, the team became suspicious upon noticing a scribble in the nationality column, where 'IND' was written. Upon questioning, it was revealed that the guest in question is an Ethiopian national who had checked into the hotel two days prior," a police officer of the Versova police station said. Constable Ganesh Kondge stated in the complaint: "The team got suspicious while going through guest log book. We gathered more information on noticing the nation column being scribbled and 'IND' written. Further inquiry, we found out that a woman from Ethopia has checked in to the lodge two days ago. They have collected a xexox of her passport which showed Bethelhemalumu while there is no other documents while giving her admission in the lodge. " You Can Also Check: Mumbai AQI | Weather in Mumbai | Bank Holidays in Mumbai | Public Holidays in Mumbai Police said the lodge did not follow the Mumbai police instructions of registering the tenants' details with the police. The probe is on to find out the motive behind scribbling the country details in the log book. Meanwhile, the State police have instructed that tenants across the state will soon be spared the hassle of visiting police stations for verification when they rent accommodations once the registration department integrates its data with the police network covering all 1,203 police stations. The initiative, launched in 98 police stations across Mumbai city and its suburban areas, 64 stations in Pune city, and 34 in rural areas, represents a digital transformation in the tenant registration process.
