Matcha is a powdered green tea drink that has skyrocketed in popularity over the last few years, popping up in health stores, cafes, and Instagram feeds. But why has matcha gotten so much buzz, what are its health benefits, and how should you use it? We explore some of the matcha basics to see why it’s winning over even the most dedicated coffee lovers.  

Health benefits of matcha

Matcha tea is 100% green tea that’s been ground into a fine powder. This nourishing concentrated green drink is said to be a stronger version of green tea and is prepared a little differently to regular green tea. Read on to discover some of the health benefits of matcha – and see why this drink is making such a splash. 

It’s rich in antioxidants 

Antioxidants can neutralise free radicals in your body, which are linked to cell damage and many diseases. Matcha tea is high in catechins, which acts as a natural antioxidant. It contains nutrients from the whole leaf – soaking up more catechins and antioxidants than regular green tea. In fact, studies show that matcha tea has 137 times more catechins than other types of green tea. 

It may help protect the liver 

Your liver plays a key role in your health, including processing nutrients and flushing out toxins. Drinking green tea (including matcha tea) can help improve fat and enzyme levels in the liver – leading to better liver health. In fact, some studies show that matcha may even prevent liver damage and disease. So while you sip away on your humble matcha, your liver may be reaping the benefits! 

It can boost brain function and give you a steady energy kick 

Known as a mood and brain food, matcha has been shown to boost brain function, including improvements in reaction time, memory and attention. Matcha contains more concentrated caffeine than green tea, yet it also has a compound called L-theanine, which helps you avoid that energy crash coffee can give you. 

In addition to providing a much-needed energy boost, coffee lovers may know that caffeine can actually improve physical performance. Matcha can deliver many of these same benefits, while also giving a steadier energy release, making even the most loyal coffee drinkers get on the matcha train. 

Matcha vs green tea  

With a standard green tea, all you need to do is pop a tea bag into your cup of hot water for it to brew. Once the tea leaves steep in the water, you discard them.

Matcha on the other hand is a finely ground powder that needs to be sifted and whisked into hot water. Meaning you actually consume the entire tea leaf when you drink matcha! 

While matcha is still tea, it can clump easily, so having a quality whisk on-hand is an absolute must. The most common way to have matcha is as a nourishing tea. However, it can also be enjoyed as a latte, in ice cream, smoothies, desserts – the list goes on! 

Kickstart your health and nutrition goals 

When it comes to health and nutrition, there’s no single ‘silver bullet’ drink or workout. It’s a combined effort of the right advice for your needs, which includes nutrition and exercise support. So, if you’re looking for help with nutrition and nutrition planning, our personal trainers can help. 

To chat to a personal trainer who’s in your corner, get in touch with us today.