Although matcha has been used in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies for centuries, social media has fuelled its popularity in recent years. People all around the world are enjoying matcha in a variety of foods and drinks, but is it genuinely good for you, or is it simply the latest trend?
Matcha is a finely ground powder made from green tea leaves. With regular green tea, the leaves are soaked in hot water and then discarded. With matcha, the entire leaf is consumed in a powdered form. This means that matcha has a higher concentration of nutrients when compared to regular green tea.
Matcha is most commonly enjoyed by whisking the powder with hot water until it becomes frothy. However, its rich, earthy flavour makes it incredibly versatile. Other popular ways to consume matcha include smoothies, lattes, baked goods, ice cream, oats, yoghurt, chia puddings and more. It has a distinct grassy taste, prompting many to pair it with milk or natural sweeteners.
Does matcha have health benefits?
Studies show that matcha has a high antioxidant content that protects vital cells from damage. This can slow the process of ageing, and even prevent certain chronic illnesses. Another key benefit of matcha is that several of its naturally-occurring compounds support heart health by lowering inflammation. It also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can provide mental clarity and focus. Together with its caffeine content, this creates gradual and sustained energy, with less of the sudden spike and crash that many people experience when drinking coffee. Regular consumption may even help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
Are there any downsides to drinking matcha?
Although matcha is a superfood in every sense of the word, moderation is still important.
As with anything that contains caffeine, drinking too much matcha may cause anxiety, insomnia, jitters, or an upset stomach, particularly in people who are sensitive to caffeine. Avoid consuming it late in the day, particularly if you have trouble sleeping.
Many commercially available matcha drinks may also be loaded with sugar, flavoured syrups and whipped cream, which may outweigh some of the health benefits. For the best results, choose unsweetened options, or prepare the matcha yourself.
Our verdict
Matcha is more than just a social media trend. This superfood has a long history and a nutritional profile that offers numerous healing properties and health benefits. While it isn’t a heal-all miracle cure, it can be a healthy addition to a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation. If you enjoy its unique flavour, swapping your coffee for a matcha latte may be a great choice for sustained energy levels and overall well-being.
