Matcha tea, or green tea powder, comes from the same plant as black tea, Camellia Sinensis. It is ground into a deep green powder, thus receiving the benefits of the complete tea leaf, and without undergoing any fermentation process like black tea.
Made from the finest and most tender leaves from the first days of harvest in Japan, it is one of the most consumed drinks in this country, one with the highest life expectancy in the world.
It is extremely rich in catechins, L-theanine, chlorophyll, potassium, selenium and zinc. Its intense green color and its particularly sweet flavor make matcha tea the perfect complement to green detox smoothies, smoothie bowls and matcha lattes. I highly encourage you to put aside your coffee(s) and try the benefits of this superfood. These are some of the reasons why you should listen to me ;)
It is a powerful antioxidant
Matcha tea is one of the most powerful antioxidants that exist, being scientifically proven to prevent the development of cancer cells, inflammatory processes and neurodegenerative diseases. Matcha tea, unlike coffee, contains catechins that prevent cell damage and slow down the aging process. A trick to better preserve these catechins is not to overboil the water or milk you are going to use. You can dilute this green powder in milk, water, or add it to yogurts, smoothies and juices in the morning.
Accelerates metabolism
The thermogenic properties of matcha tea promote faster and more efficient fat burning, making it the ideal food in weight loss diets, or for definition stages in the gym.
Reduces bad cholesterol levels
In addition to promoting cell regeneration, catechins reduce bad cholesterol (LDL), thus preventing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, if you drink a lot of coffee, caffeine decreases insulin sensitivity and thus increases blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases in the medium long term.
It's good for your mind
By promoting good blood circulation, its consumption will give you greater mental clarity, improve your memory and concentration without the harmful effects of caffeine. Let's not forget that caffeine can cause irritability, anxiety, and even difficulty sleeping, especially if you drink more than one at work. Keep in mind that caffeine consumption increases the levels of catecholamines, a group of substances (adrenaline, norepinephrine and dopamine among others) that usually cause a state of continuous stress.
Regulates blood sugar levels
Scientific studies show that people who consume coffee regularly have more difficulty regulating sugar levels than those who drink green tea. In addition, matcha tea, being made from the crushed leaves of the plant, has a lot of fiber so it will also help stabilize blood glucose.
Improves mood
The amino acid L-theanine increases the production of dopamine and serotonin, improving symptoms of apathy, depression and anxiety.
As always, I recommend that it be 100% ecological!! Dare to try it and tell me what you think in the comments below!! If you want to prepare some more elaborate recipes you can download our recipe book here ;)
Alicia Lamothe
Health Coach
