Every December, I begin my holiday kitchen residency — a month spent living between my kitchen island and stove, creating everything from gingerbread cookies to peppermint bark to spiked eggnog [1]. I've even dedicated a Christmas playlist and apron to the occasion.
Despite my excitement, my stomach doesn't find this to be the most wonderful month of the year. Everything tastes great going in (except for an occasional burnt sugar cookie!), but one person can only indulge in so many sweet treats before their body starts to speak up.
So I try to supplement my baking hobby with gut-healthy foods and drinks, like Health-Ade's Holiday Cheers Kombucha [2] ($48 for a 12-pack).
I'm not claiming kombucha can cure stomachaches, but the fermented drink has been shown to improve digestion, decrease bloating, and help with gut inflammation [3] — and I feel it works for me.
While I'm picky about kombucha (I find some taste way too vinegary!), Health-Ade's Holiday Cheers flavour passes my taste test. Ginger [5] is the star of this show, but notes of vanilla, allspice, and chocolate lend the blend a sweet and warm balance. The recipe will complement most holiday treats, and the green-and-red packageing works with my kitchen aesthetic, too.
I've even been known to bring Health-Ade's Holiday Cheers Kombucha to holiday parties on nights that I'm assigned as the designated driver. The crisp, bubbly flavours are hardly bland and actually make for a great conversation starter. And although all gatherings are on Zoom this year, don't be surprised if I (virtually!) cheers to the season with my favourite glass bottle in hand despite not needing to drive — it's that good.
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