As health trends circulate the U.S., new products find their ways onto menus and into household pantries. The latest trend? A vibrant green, powder-based, caffeine-filled drink, consuming the ads of popular coffee chains. You guessed it: matcha. Its recent growth in popularity poses relevant questions pertaining to its health benefits. Here is everything you need to know:Â
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a Japanese green tea powder, produced from ground dried tea leaves. The production process differs from other teas in that the tea bush is shielded from sunlight for days prior to harvest, allowing chlorophyll levels to rise, and a green color to form. The powder itself has several health benefits, however many of the matcha products sold in coffee shops and grocery stores are filled with sugar. The matcha lattes available at both Dunkin Donuts and Starbucks contain 32 grams of sugar and a low percentage of authentic matcha powder, ridding the beverage of it’s natural health benefits, and creating an unhealthy option. If you are interested in hopping on the matcha trend, it is important that you purchase a powder containing one ingredient: 100% Japanese matcha. You can use this powder to make hot or iced teas and lattes, in addition adding it to endless recipes.
Health Benefits
The recent rise in the popularity of matcha is well deserved. There are several health benefits of consuming this product regularly.
- High in antioxidants: Matcha contains a class of antioxidants called catechins, which are present in all green teas. The specific catechin present in green tea is called epigallocatechin gallate, also known as EGCG. Since matcha contains the whole green tea leaf rather than the traditional process of steeping tea leaves in water, there is a higher concentration of EGCG. Research has found that it contains up to 137 times the amount of catechins present in green tea. Increasing green tea catechin intake can help prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and encourage weight loss.
- May help prevent cancer: The antioxidants present in Matcha help prevent several diseases, one of which includes cancer. Research has linked epigallocatechin gallate to having cancer- fighting properties. The national cancer institute found that epigallocatechin gallate protects cells from DNA damage, activates detoxification enzymes that inhibit tumor growth, and promotes cancer cell destruction. In addition, research has shown that EGCG helps protect the skin against UV radiation, reducing the risk of skin cancer.
- Improves heart health: The epigallocatechin gallate present in matcha plays an important role in improving heart health. EGCG’s help enhance the lining of blood vessels and keep cholesterol low. This regulates blood pressure and prevents blood clotting. In addition, studies show that the antioxidants present in matcha prevent inflammation in body tissue, which keeps blood vessels flexible and relaxed, improving their ability to withstand changes in blood pressure.
- Boosts brain function: Several of the contents in matcha work together to improve mental performance. The caffeine in this green tea powder stimulates the nervous system, reducing fatigue and improving concentration. In addition, the amino acid theanine in matcha prevents overstimulation and boosts brain productivity. Lastly, the antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate has been linked to better mood, memory and other cognitive functions. These three components combined enable matcha to boost brain function.
- Can help promote weight loss: Adding matcha into your regular diet can help you reach your weight loss goals. Research has shown that epigallocatechin gallate can boost metabolism and stop the growth of fat cells. In fact, studies have found that those who consume a concentrated green tea product regularly are significantly more likely to lose weight than those who do not.
- Reduces inflammation: Matcha has anti- inflammatory properties, which can help you feel your best, in addition to managing severe inflammation in those with Rheumatoid arthritis. A study conducted at the University of Michigan found that the epigallocatechin gallate found in matcha limits the production of certain molecules in your immune system that can trigger inflammation and joint pain. This finding supports the use of matcha as a natural remedy for those diagnosed with Rheumatoid arthritis.
- Caffeine without the jitters: The caffeine content in matcha is characterized by a calm alertness, rather than the spikes and crashes associated with a cup of coffee. This is because coffee creates spikes in adrenaline glucose and insulin levels, whereas matcha contains theanine, an amino acid that prevents you from feeling over stimulated. The effects of the caffeine in matcha can last from 3-6 hours, increasing focus and productivity.
- Boosts immune system: As Covid- 19 continues to spread, the constant search for immunity- boosting products persists. Consuming matcha strengthens the immune system due to its high levels of epigallocatechin gallate, which assists the body’s production of T-Cells. This results in reduced inflammation and increases the body’s ability to fight pathogens. In addition, the chlorophyll present in matcha helps detoxify the body of harmful chemicals and toxins, which also plays a role in fighting off pathogens.
- Improves bone health: Consuming matcha regularly can be beneficial for bone growth and strength. The epigallocatechin gallate in matcha stimulates an enzyme that promotes bone growth by up to 79%. EGCG also increases the level of bone mineralization in the cells, which strengthens bones.
- Reduces anxiety: Incorporating matcha into your diet can help reduce anxiety. The contents of matcha activate dopamine and serotonin receptors in the bran. Activation of these receptors results in calming effects and reduces anxious behavior.
