The Health Benefits of Matcha
What is matcha?
Matcha is a type of green tea that is made from the powdered leaves of the Camellia Sinensis plant that was originally served at Japanese tea ceremonies. Farmers shade the plants for most of the growth period. The lack of direct sunlight increases chlorophyll production, boosts the amino acid content and gives the plant a dark green colour.
Matcha contains nutrients from the entire leaf and contains more caffeine and antioxidants that are typically present in green teas. Studies of matcha have revealed a variety of health benefits. Read on to discover 5 possible health benefits and advantages of consuming matcha.
May support a healthy heart
The compounds in matcha are to those found in green teas, and have been shown to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease. The catechins found in both matcha and green tea may decrease oxidative stress- a lack of balance between antioxidants and free radicals in the body- and prevent inflammation.
2. May boost brain health, function and mental alertness
Matcha is a concentrated source of polyphenols, chlorophyll, caffeine and L-theanine- all of which benefit brain function. Caffeine, as a stimulant, affects the central nervous system by boosting energy metabolism across the brain. It also enhances alertness and memory performance. Caffeine also has antioxidant properties and in conjunction with the catechins found in matcha, may help prevent the occurrence or progression of neurodegenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease.
3. May aid in weight loss
The plant compounds and caffeine found in matcha may increase metabolic rate and speed up fat burning- both of which can aid with weight loss. These effects can be further enhanced when matcha consumption is combined with exercise.
4. May improve gut health
Plant compounds such as polyphenols, pass to the large intestine unabsorbed where they are broken down by gut bacteria. Once broken down, they are beneficial to the bacteria that reside in this part of the gut, allowing them to thrive, improve gut function and modify the immune system.
5. May have a stress-relieving effect
The presence of L-theanine, caffeine, and antioxidants such as EGCG work together to promote feelings of relaxation, improve your mood and support overall mental-wellbeing. Matcha is also thought to help activate both the serotonin and dopamine receptors in the brain- hormones responsible for relaxation and wellbeing.
