Matcha tea has health benefits for the body and brain
Most days, Dominique Fluker starts her morning with matcha. Japan-native powdered green tea has become a staple of the Los Angeles-based journalist’s morning routine after first trying it at a wellness event about a month ago.
“I was immediately hooked because I didn’t crash and burn at 2 p.m. like I usually do with coffee,” she says. “I didn’t have to fill up and buy more caffeine later in the day.”
Additionally, Fluker says that matcha has helped calm her mood and when combined with her Pilates practice, she feels more grounded in her body.
“I work for a publication on the east coast, so I start my days at 4:30 in the morning. I write, edit, deliver messages and do all of that. Then I go to school three afternoons a week,” Fluker explains. “So my energy has to be there, my focus has to be there. And matcha has done a lot for me and my digestive system.”
Fluker is far from the only matcha fanatic. A report published by reports and data noted that the global matcha tea market was worth US$3.27 billion in 2021, and the popularity has only increased since then. But do the wellness promises hold up? We looked at the benefits of matcha.
What is matcha?
Matcha is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are picked, steamed, and then dried before being ground into a fine powder, explains Dr. Raghu Kiran Appasani, MUDWTR Mental Health Advisor, Integrative and Addiction Psychiatrist and Founder of The MINDS Foundation.
“Traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, matcha is known for its bright green color, delicate flavor and unique health benefits,” he says. “The process of shade-growing increases the chlorophyll and amino acid content of the tea leaves, which gives matcha its distinct umami flavor and nutritional properties.”
Benefits of Drinking Matcha
Matcha is naturally rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. The following are some of the key nutritional benefits of drinking matcha:
- Antioxidants: Matcha is high in antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are known to protect against cell damage and may help lower the risk of certain diseases.
- L-Theanine: Matcha also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to promote relaxation, improve mood and reduce stress. It also helps improve alertness/cognitive function and offsets caffeine’s potential “crash” effect.
- Fiber: Matcha is a good source of fiber, which can aid in digestion and promote regular bowel movements.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Matcha is a good source of vitamins A and C, which tk tk, as well as minerals such as potassium and iron for tk tk.
- liver health: Matcha has been shown to have liver-protective effects and may help reduce liver damage caused by toxins.
- heart health: Matcha has been shown to lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels.
- Brain Health: One study found that consuming two grams of green tea powder daily for three months improved brain function in older adults.
- Weight management: The polyphenols in matcha can boost metabolism and help with weight loss.
How does matcha compare to coffee?
Matcha contains about 70 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounces, while a cup of coffee contains about 90 milligrams of caffeine per 8 ounces; However, the caffeine in matcha is released more slowly and steadily due to L-theanine.
“This means matcha’s energy boost is more sustained and less likely to cause jitters or crashes compared to coffee,” says Appasani. “In addition, matcha also offers other health benefits such as antioxidants, fiber and vitamins, while coffee is often consumed as a beverage in its own right with no additional health benefits.”
One to two cups of matcha a day is considered a safe amount, but if you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to consult a doctor before adding matcha to your diet.
What else can Matcha be used for?
As well as being drunk as a tea or latte, matcha powder can also be used to add flavor and color to foods like baked goods, ice cream and more. It can also be added to smoothies, juices and energy drinks for a natural boost of energy.
Because of its high antioxidant content, matcha powder can be added to face masks, scrubs, and other beauty products to protect skin from damage.
“The benefits of matcha apply in other wars as well, as long as the matcha powder is of high quality and used in moderation,” explains Appasani. “Matcha benefits can vary depending on the quality and purity of the powder, as well as the amount used in a particular recipe.”
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