Try this: Kombucha

Kombucha is a sweetened tea fermented by a colony of bacteria and yeast, also known as a SCOBY (symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast), that has burst onto the health-food scene in recent years.

While many of the claims of kombucha’s healing powers have been exaggerated through marketing ploys (the American Cancer society actually released a statement regarding the lack of evidence behind claims that kombucha prevents cancer), this drink still certainly makes the cut as a healthy option for the adventurous running foodie.

Like all fermented foods, kombucha is high in probiotics, which are healthy gut bacteria. Getting enough probiotics in your diet is the best way to maintain a healthy digestive system. Since digestion is often problematic for runners, taking care of one’s gut should be on par with taking care of one’s feet.

Kombucha is also high in antioxidants and B vitamins. At around 30 calories per cup, kombucha has fewer calories than most soft drinks of fruit juices.

Home-brewing one’s own kombucha is an option for the truly adventurous. However, brews can easily become contaminated if proper technique and sanitation is not complied with.