One of the most popular drinks during the past years has been matcha, a green tea powder, originally consumed in East Asia. Matcha is most frequently associated with Japan, where it has been used for centuries during their traditional tea ceremonies.
Matcha comes in the form of a vibrant, green colored powder, with a specific bitter taste and has lately become the center of attention, especially after baristas began using it as an ingredient in the now famous matcha latte drink.
But beyond the recently gained status of popular drink, matcha has an entire list of health benefits that can be enjoyed through regular consumption.
It is rich in antioxidants
As compared to regular green tea, which is prepared by infusing the tea leaves and then removing them from the drink, matcha is made using the entire tea leaf, which is ground into a powder and then dissolved in hot water. In this way, you get consume a bigger quantity of antioxidants, which are known for neutralizing free radicals or molecules that are known to play a role in serious illnesses, such as cancer and heart disease.
It gives you a subtle boost of energy
In comparison to the effect of coffee, which can be quite strong and aggressive, matcha powder provides a slow release of caffeine, giving you energy without inducing the state of alert or anxiety we have all experienced after drinking coffee.
It can potentially improve the health of the cardiovascular system
There are numerous studies that show a correlation between green tea consumption and cardiovascular health, which should be sustained, of course, by a healthy and balanced diet and general lifestyle.
It can support weight loss
Matcha is a well-known metabolism booster. It uses fat as a source of energy, thus stimulating the burn of calories and accelerating the weight loss process.
It is good for your teeth
Matcha has antibacterial properties, and contributes to the prevention of plaque accumulation by inhibiting the reproduction of bacteria.
Whether you consume it as a latte, a milkshake, or just as a traditional cup of tea, matcha will definitely contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
