Many of us would rather run through the town naked than be asked to give up our morning coffee.
But if you are finding the extra caffeine hit you need mid-morning or mid-afternoon to just keep the wheels turning has not been leaving you feeling the best then maybe it is time to try a new beverage!
How about giving Matcha Green Tea a shot. Matcha is the whole Japanese Matcha green tea leaves ground into a powder that is highly nutritious and full of antioxidants.
It also contains more caffeine than your ordinary green tea which may help take the edge off not having that extra cup of coffee you have become used to every day!
why swap my beloved coffee for matcha green tea?
Drinking a daily cup of Matcha green tea can have far reaching health benefits.
Fights free radicals and detoxifies heavy metals
Antioxidants are our bodies defence against the many environmental toxins that contribute to disease and ageing. By including foods and drinks naturally high in antioxidants you are helping to combat these free radicals. Matcha green tea has been given at ORAC value (the measure of antioxidant levels in foods) of 1573 units which is even greater than nutrient dense foods such as blueberries (ORAC 93) and broccoli (ORAC 31) – in fact it blows them out of the water.
Can enhance focus, balance moods and reduce stress
Matcha contains an amino acid called L-Theanine, which is shown to increase certain waves within the brain that promote calm feelings and aid concentration. It also contains caffeine which is released and absorbed more slowly compared to coffee. This means less energy spikes followed by an almighty slump and a more consistent feeling of alertness and focus over a longer period.
Boost immunity
Matcha has an anti-inflammatory response in the body which has demonstrated powerful effects on boosting immunity. This is largely due to its antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial qualities that can help fight infections, reduce allergies and keep that flu far, far away.
Assists in boosting metabolism and managing a healthy weight.
It has the ability to burn fat at a higher rate than normal thanks to ECGC, a specific antioxidant known for its fat burning capabilities. It can also help stop fat absorption by blocking the ability of digestive enzymes to break down fat. The caffeine in Matcha helps to naturally boost metabolism whilst avoiding that spike and slump effect.
Assists to clear, protect and maintain healthy skin.
Matcha contains high levels of catechins and antioxidants known to inhibit cell degeneration responsible for ageing wrinkles, crow’s feet and loss of collagen and elasticity.
Our top 3 favourite Matcha green powders:
- Zen Premium Grade Matcha Green Tea Powder
- Matcha Maiden Matcha Green Tea
- Jomeis Fine Foods Organic Matcha Latte
Don’t drink tea or coffee?
You can make Matcha with just hot water or add some frothy milk for a creamy latte.
But, if you don’t generally drink any hot beverages you can still easily get the health benefits of Matcha green tea by adding it to:
- Smoothies and juices
- Desserts and baked goods (Matcha bliss balls are amazing!)
- Homemade ice cream
- Iced tea drinks
- Skin care such as masks and moisturisers
Try swapping one flat white a day for a Matcha latte and we are sure you will feel better for it!
