Probiotics carry many benefits for your gut health and can be found in many fermented foods such as kimchi, sauerkraut, yogurt and kombucha.
One easy way to get your daily probiotic dose is to include tepache in your routine.
What is Tepache?
Tepache is a probiotic soda made from the core and rinds of pineapples.
It is kind of like kombucha, but where kombucha is made with tea, tepache is made from pineapple.
The fermentation process for kombucha starts with bacterial cultures and yeast, but tepache is fermented without these components.
Since tepache is fermented, it contains these probiotics which are so beneficial for your gut.
Is Tepache Soda?
Tepache, while a fizzy and lightly sweetened drink, is definitely not your typical soda.
An average can of soda contains about 30-40 grams of sugar per 12 oz can, and essentially has no health benefits.
Tepache has about 8 g of sugar for the same size can, and has a myriad of health benefits such as
- Probiotics for healthy gut
- Vitamin C for immune support
- Vitamin D for bone support
Along with these benefits, tepache is a low-calorie option, weighing in at about 40 calories per can vs about 140-200 calories for a can of soda.
What does Tepache Taste Like?
Tepache is described as lightly sweetened, fizzy and refreshing. Some people say that it tastes like a rich cider, or even that it tastes similar to beer.
Sometimes, tepache brewers will add in extra flavours to enhance and change the taste of the drink.
On its own, tepache is delicious, but adding some mango, apple or ginger flavors can enhance the delicious taste!
Can I Eat Drink Probiotic Drinks Every Day?
Most people can drink probiotic drinks every day and will find that they enjoy the benefits.
Some of the main benefits associated with probiotic use are
- Relief from constipation
- Healthier immune system
- Relief from antibiotic related diarrhea
- Less risk for yeast infections
- Relief from symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Is Tepache Alcoholic?
Tepache does contain a small amount of alcohol, just because it is fermented.
Like kombucha, a small amount of alcohol is created during the fermenting process. This does not mean that drinking tepache is like drinking a glass of beer – tepache usually has about 0.5% alcohol.
Some people report that drinking a bottle of kombucha really quickly may make them feel a bit “buzzed” – and the same goes for tepache.
It is important to note that you are unlikely to be able to chug a big enough portion in a short enough period of time to feel buzzed! It can happen but be assured that drinking tepache is not like just drinking beer or wine.
However, if you want to turn your tepache into a cocktail, you definitely can!
You could add a splash of tequila, or even a bit of beer to make a fizzy cocktail which is still full of probiotics.
Where can I buy Tepache?
Tepache originates from Mexico and you can buy it from many street vendors where you can most often also get a meal.
It has long been a really popular drink in Mexico but is starting to become popular globally as well.
If you are looking to buy tepache in a store, many health food stores are now selling tepache alongside kombucha, since it is a great alternative.
If you are in the United States, a great place to look for tepache is Whole Foods. Check out the refrigerator section and you should be able to find tepache with the kombucha!
Tepache is a great option if you are looking to include probiotics in your daily routine. The light, refreshing taste is sure to make your tastebuds and your gut happy!
Barry Lachey is a Professional Editor at Zobuz. Previously He has also worked for Moxly Sports and Network Resources “Joe Joe.” He is a graduate of the Kings College at the University of Thames Valley London. You can reach Barry via email or by phone.
