The Benefits of Matcha
The Benefits of Matcha
By: Audrey Cooper
Matcha has staked its claim as one of the most popular beverages of the past few years with its distinct flavor and vibrant green color. Matcha is an ideal substitute for coffee since it is high in caffeine and has superior health benefits. Matcha can be found in most coffee shops today and there are even cafes dedicated to the beverage, including the notorious Cha Cha Matcha, that serve a multitude of matcha drinks and soft serve matcha ice creams.
Matcha is a powder made from ground-up green tea leaves. Unlike other teas in which the tea bags are removed after steeping, the matcha powder is derived from the whole tea leaf which is consumed entirely when drinking it (this is the root of the majority of matcha’s health benefits). The history of matcha dates far back in Japanese culture, and is believed to have been first used by Buddhist monks in order to improve their focus during meditation.
All that is needed to make matcha is matcha powder and the correct mixing tools. Matcha can be made with almost any liquid but tastes the best with milk or water. Whether it be hot or iced, matcha lattes are currently the most popular form of matcha. Pro tip: ask for oat milk, vanilla, and honey for a delicious matcha latte.
Along with promoting productivity and energy, matcha contains health-promoting vitamins and antioxidants and promotes cellular function. Matcha offers a megadose of powerful antioxidants, including catechins and polyphenols, which both play a prominent role in the body’s functioning. These antioxidants work to reduce cell damage, prevent chronic disease, and contain anti-inflammatory benefits. Matcha supports the immune system in a multitude of ways such as detoxing the body of harmful chemicals and bacteria. The rich antioxidant properties of matcha contribute to combating inflammation in the skin, working to decrease redness, puffiness, and sometimes even help clear breakouts.
Matcha contains vitamins A, B, C, E, and K, all imperative to health. The strong contents of vitamin C within matcha promote skin cell production and directly stimulate collagen production, which is important for healthy skin regulation. The high levels of polyphenols and vitamin K work to slow down bone loss. Vitamin K helps to metabolize calcium as well, which can assist in improving bone strength. Matcha also contains catechins that may help some lower their cholesterol levels naturally.
Matcha has three times the amount of caffeine found in regular black coffee, but does not produce the same jittery effect as coffee and energy drinks, meaning it is less likely to contribute to an afternoon caffeine crash.
The compounds found in matcha improve connectivity in the brain, and offer protections to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimers and Parkinson's. All the nutritional properties contained in matcha act as a natural nootropic, which is a substance that improves human thinking, learning, memory, concentration, motivation, and attention. The brain is also made healthier by the natural nootropic that acts as a supplement for brain health, increasing energy and oxygen flow to the brain.
Matcha is the answer for hours of calm, clear-headed energy and concentration. Matcha is not just a substitute for coffee; it is a delicious beverage that promotes health benefits head-to-toe and will only grow in popularity in the years to come.
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All photos belong to Audrey Cooper and Cha Cha Matcha.