Doctor explains why drinking kvass is risky

Kvass sold in retail chains often includes sugar, corn syrup or artificial sweeteners. This can stimulate fermentation in the gastrointestinal tract and provoke weight gain, Elena Maslova, a physician at the Vidnovskaya Clinical Hospital of the Moscow Region Ministry of Health, told RIA Novosti.

According to her, many store-bought versions of the drink are oversaturated with sugar, corn syrup or sweeteners to improve the taste and increase shelf life. This is a source of empty calories, the risk of weight gain, and increased fermentation processes in the gastrointestinal tract. Acids and gases irritate the mucous membranes of the stomach and intestines, and with excessive consumption or individual sensitivity, they cause diarrhea, Maslova explained.

In addition, the specialist warned that the increased acidity of kvass can negatively affect tooth enamel.

Poor quality raw materials or water, failure to observe storage conditions and hygiene during bottling, as well as violations of sanitary standards can lead to contamination of kvass with bacteria such as E. coli or salmonella, Maslova noted.

This is especially true for home-made drinks or those sold from stalls - they can cause food poisoning, the doctor added.

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