Matcha tea is a unique green tea gaining popularity for its many potential health benefits. This tea is high in antioxidants and can help improve heart and brain health, protect the liver, prevent cancer, and even aid in weight loss. So brew a cup of matcha, sit back, and read on to discover why matcha is the best tea for your health.
What is Matcha Tea?
Matcha tea is a unique type of green tea that originates from Japan. This tea is made from an amazing variety of green tea known as shade-grown Gyokuro leaves that are carefully picked to produce the highest quality of matcha.
This tea is then ground into a fine powder and whisked with hot water to create a delicious, creamy beverage packed with health benefits. Japanese monks have used matcha tea for centuries, gaining popularity worldwide due to its numerous health benefits.
Health Benefits of Matcha Tea
1. Antioxidant Properties
Matcha tea is a powerhouse of antioxidants, with more per serving than other superfoods like blueberries and goji berries.
Studies have shown that matcha green tea helps protect cells from oxidative damage due to its high levels of polyphenols that contain powerful antioxidant properties. In addition, these polyphenols can help to reduce inflammation and protect the body from environmental toxins.
In addition, the catechins in matcha tea can help lower cholesterol and blood sugar and support a healthy weight.
2. Protects the Liver
Studies have shown that drinking matcha tea can reduce levels of the liver enzyme alkaline phosphatase, associated with an increased risk of liver damage. In addition, matcha tea has been found to reduce the levels of liver enzymes related to inflammation. This can help protect the liver from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the risk of liver disease.
3. Boosts Brain Function
Matcha is packed with powerful antioxidants, including catechins and theanine, which have been proven to affect your overall brain health positively.
Catechins are an antioxidant found in green tea and are thought to protect brain cells. Theanine, an amino acid found in matcha, is also known to promote healthy brain function. Several studies have shown that drinking Matcha tea can improve concentration, focus, and memory, making it an excellent tool for optimizing your brain health.
4. Prevents Cancer
Studies suggest that Matcha Tea contains high levels of catechins and polyphenols, both antioxidants. These antioxidants can help prevent cell damage that can lead to cancer.
Studies have also shown that regular consumption of Matcha Tea can reduce the risk of bladder, breast, colorectal, and stomach cancer. Furthermore, studies have shown that Matcha Tea can improve the response to chemotherapy and radiation treatment.
5. Promotes Heart Health
Matcha tea is recognized for its ability to support heart health. Studies have shown that the polyphenols in matcha tea are responsible for their antioxidative properties and positive effect on the cardiovascular system.
Not only do the polyphenols help reduce high blood pressure, they also lower cholesterol in the body. Additionally, the catechins in matcha tea have been shown to decrease the risk of stroke and coronary artery disease.
6. Aid in Weight Loss
Matcha tea is known to be beneficial when it comes to losing weight. It contains catechins, antioxidants that help to boost metabolism and burn fat. Studies have shown that those who consume matcha tea daily experience a 4 percent increase in their metabolism and a greater fat-burning rate than those who do not.
Matcha tea’s anti-inflammatory compounds also help reduce water retention, cravings, and bloating. All these factors combined make matcha tea an excellent natural aid for weight loss and a must-have inclusion in any diet plan.
To Sum Things Up
Matcha tea is an incredibly versatile and health-promoting drink that benefits those who include it in their daily routine. While research is ongoing to explore these potential benefits further, what has been discovered thus far is quite impressive. For example, its antioxidant properties may help to prevent cancer and protect the liver, while its high caffeine content may help to boost brain function.
It can also help promote heart health and even aid in weight loss. All-in-all, Matcha tea is a beautiful beverage that can help to improve your overall health and wellness. Try it and see how it can work for you!
FAQs
What happens if I drink matcha tea every day?
If you drink matcha tea every day, you may experience various health benefits due to its high antioxidant content, particularly a compound called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). These benefits can include weight loss, improved heart health, cancer prevention, enhanced brain function, and liver protection. However, it’s important to consume matcha in moderation, as excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as insomnia, heart palpitations, or gastrointestinal issues due to its caffeine content.
What is the healthiest way to consume matcha?
The healthiest way to consume matcha is by preparing it traditionally, using high-quality, organic matcha powder. To prepare a cup of matcha tea, whisk 1-2 teaspoons of matcha powder with 2-3 ounces of hot water (not boiling) until it becomes frothy. You can also add matcha to smoothies, lattes, or baked goods as a healthy flavoring agent. Avoid adding excessive sugar or artificial sweeteners, as these can negate some of the health benefits of matcha.
Sources:
Weight Loss: Dulloo, A. G., Duret, C., Rohrer, D., Girardier, L., Mensi, N., Fathi, M., … & Vandermander, J. (1999). Efficacy of a green tea extract rich in catechin polyphenols and caffeine in increasing 24-h energy expenditure and fat oxidation in humans. The American Journal of clinical nutrition, 70(6), 1040-1045.
Heart Health: Kuriyama, S., Shimazu, T., Ohmori, K., Kikuchi, N., Nakaya, N., Nishino, Y., … & Tsuji, I. (2006). Green tea consumption and mortality due to cardiovascular disease, cancer, and all causes in Japan: the Ohsaki study. JAMA, 296(10), 1255-1265.
Prevents Cancer: Yuan, J. M. (2013). Cancer prevention by green tea: evidence from epidemiologic studies. The American Journal of clinical nutrition, 98(6), 1676S-1681S.
Boosts Brain Function: Dietz, C., & Dekker, M. (2017). Effect of Green Tea Phytochemicals on Mood and Cognition. Current Pharmaceutical Design, 23(19), 2876-2905.
Protects the Liver: Zheng, X. X., Xu, Y. L., Li, S. H., Hui, R., Wu, Y. J., & Huang, X. H. (2011). Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials. The American Journal of clinical nutrition, 94(2), 601-610.
Antioxidant Properties: Legeay, S., Rodier, C., Fillon, L., Faure, S., & Clere, N. (2015). Epigallocatechin Gallate: A Review of Its Beneficial Properties to Prevent Metabolic Syndrome. Nutrients, 7(7), 5443-5468.
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Yumi is a qualified Certified Holistic Nutritionist with a Master’s degree in Nutrition who has dedicated her life to promoting health and wellness. Her holistic and empathetic approach continues to empower individuals to take control of their health for lasting well-being.
