Matcha is a Japanese-origin food substance that has amassed popularity among fitness enthusiasts over the last decade or so. It has become a fixture in cafes, and is served in multiple forms, such as tea, coffee, and surprisingly, even ice cream. Derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, the first thing that springs to mind when one thinks of matcha is its vivid green hue. The plants cultivated for matcha are typically shaded during the duration of growth, and the absence of direct sunlight enhances the production of chlorophyll, ascribing the plant its signature green colour.
Matcha is a form of green tea. However, what sets matcha tea apart from regular green tea is that the former comprises a higher degree of caffeine and antioxidants. Plus, the entire tea leaf is used to make matcha tea, ensuring that it is loaded with nutrients. Being rich in antioxidants, amino acids as well as nutrients, matcha tea is widely considered a healthier alternative to some of the more commonly consumed teas.
Matcha is abundant in compounds known as polyphenols that help ward off diseases and promote a balanced diet; it is also an excellent source of chlorophyll, caffeine, and L-theanine, a compound that regulates sleep, relaxation, and general wellness. Together, the aforementioned agents boost brain health, improving one’s memory as well as making one more alert and energetic. Additionally, the catechins present in matcha may aid in the prevention of neurodegenerative conditions, such as Alzheimer’s.
As already touched on above, matcha tea comprises the compound L-theanine that has a soothing effect on one’s nervous system. This is because L-theanine emits the neurotransmitter GABA which is known to have a calming effect on the mind, serving as an effective stress buster. To reap this benefit of matcha tea to the fullest, ensure that you consume traditional Japanese matcha tea as much as possible rather than commercially produced matcha tea.
According to the National Library of Medicine, certain types of green tea, include matcha tea, are good for bone health. You see, matcha consists of a high degree of plant compounds that can help boost bone mineral density as well as provide nourishment to one’s bones and decrease the threat of bone fractures.
Helps in weight loss
Matcha tea is rife with plant compounds and caffeine; both these substances are known to increase one’s rate of metabolism. An increased metabolism rate results in the quick burning of fats, which could assist one in losing or managing their body weight. It is recommended to practice some form of physical activity, such as daily walking, while consuming matcha tea regularly to get best and timely results when it comes to weight management.
Supports heart health
It is suggested by some studies that drinking matcha tea daily may help keep one’s cholesterol levels in check. This, in turn, could assist one manage and steer clear of cholesterol-related ailments and illnesses, such as heart disease and stroke. In this way, the consumption of matcha tea supports the health of the heart and the cardiovascular system in general.
Research conducted by the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that regular intake of green tea, especially of the matcha variety, may increase the extent of one’s responsiveness to insulin, which is the blood sugar hormone. This is viewed as a positive in the medical community as it could help people control and regulate their blood sugar levels.