Matcha is a finely ground powder, from Japan, made from the leaves of the Camellia Sinesensis tea, grown in the shade to increase the chlorophyl content. Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped, the whole leaf is consumed providing a concentrated amount of antioxidant polyphenols especially catechins (like ECGC).
What are the health benefits of Matcha?
Although it contains caffeine matcha also contain l-theanine which can provide sustained energy and mental focus without the caffeine crash. It’s high antioxidant content, especially the catechin ECGC, gives it its significant health benefits:
- Enhanced focus and calmness -due to its l-theanine content, which promotes relaxation and when combined with caffeine it can improve attention and memory.
- Promotes metabolism and weight loss – by enhancing fat oxidation especially during exercise
- Boosts cardiovascular health – the antioxidants contained in matcha can boost cardiovascular health by improving lipid profiles, lowering blood pressure and reducing systemic inflammation.
- Liver protection – Matcha can be beneficial in non alcoholic fatty liver disease by regulating lipid metabolism and reducing inflammation.
- Immune system health – the high antioxidant content of matcha can help support a healthy immune system.
- Supports a healthy gut microbiome – because matcha contains the whole leaf it is a source of fibre which can help support a healthy gut microbiome
Are all matcha drinks healthy then?
In a word – No! The healthiest way to have matcha is to whisk a small teaspoon with hot water – you can add more water to make it a longer drink or ice and cold water for a refreshing drink in the summer. Matcha latte, made at home, can still be a healthy option and an unsweetened coconut matcha latte (iced or hot) is delicious just try not to add any sweeteners to it.
Be very careful about the matcha lattes you get from cafes though, they are often full of sugar – the ‘Starbucks’ matcha latte contains 32g of sugar and the ‘Blank Street’ iced blueberry matcha contains 22-26g of sugar. The best option appears to be ‘Jenki’ who make their matcha latte with unsweetened matcha and unsweetened coconut milk!
How much matcha should I drink in a day?
As matcha contains caffeine you can have too much, so try not to have more than 2-3 servings a day. Matcha, like tea and coffee, can also inhibit iron absorption so aim not to drink it with iron rich meals.
To sum up
Matcha is a delicious drink hot or cold and has many health benefits, although it does contain caffeine so try not to have more than 3 servings per day. Be careful of the matcha lattes sold in some cafes though as they can contain almost as much sugar as a coca cola!!
