9 Unbelievable Matcha Benefits That You Should Know

Let's be honest: everyone is trying to get on board with the matcha craze, but do you really know why? Whether you like to add it to your smoothies or drink it in tea form — matcha powdered green tea is full of powerful health benefits, even more than black, green, and oolong teas! 

From boosting energy levels to improving your digestion, this vibrant green elixir has earned its reputation as a major player on the health and wellness scene. Although there are plenty of amazing matcha health perks out there, we’ve narrowed down 9 unbelievable benefits that you really need to know about! So get ready because these are some jaw-droppingly good reasons why you should start incorporating this magical ingredient into your diet today.

What is Matcha exactly?

Matcha is a type of green tea that is commonly consumed in Japan and other parts of the world. It is made from finely ground green tea leaves and has a distinctive bright green color and a slightly bitter taste. The green tea plants used to make matcha are grown in the shade for several weeks before they are harvested, which increases the chlorophyll content of the leaves and produces their vibrant green color.

Matcha is more concentrated than regular green tea, as it is made from the entire leaf of green tea that has been ground into a fine powder. In contrast, regular green tea is made by infusing dried green tea leaves in hot water, which results in a less concentrated tea. Matcha also contains higher levels of certain nutrients, such as antioxidants and caffeine, compared to regular green tea, as the whole leaf is consumed.

This green elixir is believed to have several health benefits, as it contains high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial compounds. It is also a natural source of caffeine, which can help improve mental alertness and focus. And if that wasn’t enough, the matcha tea plant has higher levels of flavonoids than other green teas, meaning that it has more antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Next, we're going diving deep into all the amazing benefits this super-powered drink has to offer health lovers everywhere. So stick around if you want to learn more about why adding some matcha green tea into your life just might be one of the best decisions ever made!

9 Powerful matcha health benefits

Not only does it have a delicious flavor and aroma that can be enjoyed throughout the day, but matcha is also packed with many health benefits! From boosting your metabolism to supporting healthy skin and bodily functions, there's no denying that this green elixir is going above and beyond the realm of typical health drinks. 

Come along to explore everything about the health benefits of matcha in detail, so get ready for an energy-filled ride into wellness paradise!

1. It is an antioxidant powerhouse

If you're on the lookout for a healthy drink that's packed with 140 types of antioxidants to boost your immune system, then matcha is definitely worth considering. This vibrant green tea powder contains high levels of catechins, a potent type of antioxidant that is known for its ability to fight off harmful free radicals in the body and help improve the immune system by fighting off harmful pathogens. 

Additionally, matcha also contains L-theanine, which has been found to enhance the production of the body's natural killer cells, responsible for fighting off infection and disease.

Plus, the unique way that matcha is prepared means that you're actually consuming the entire tea leaf, which means that you're getting even more of those valuable antioxidants compared to other green teas.

2. Rich in vitamins and minerals

Matcha is more than just a trendy drink or Instagram-worthy latte. Not only does it boast a unique taste and a higher concentration of antioxidants than regular green tea, but matcha is also loaded with essential minerals and vitamins that can give your body a healthy boost. From vitamin C to selenium, chromium, zinc, and magnesium, this super tea provides a natural and tasty way to nourish your body and support your overall well-being. Just check this out:

• Vitamin C is important for maintaining healthy skin and immune function.
• Selenium, chromium, zinc, and magnesium are essential for strong bones and immune function.

3. Regulates digestion

Matcha contains several properties that can be helpful for regulating digestion, including:

• Catechins: Matcha contains a high concentration of catechins, which are antioxidants that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Inflammation is a common cause of digestive issues, and reducing inflammation can help to improve overall digestive health.
• Chlorophyll: The high chlorophyll content in matcha can help to alkalize the body and reduce acidity in the stomach. This can help to prevent acid reflux and other digestive issues.
• L-theanine: Matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that has been shown to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. Stress is a known contributor to digestive issues such as bloating and constipation, and reducing stress can be helpful in regulating digestion.
• Fiber: Matcha is high in fiber, which is essential for healthy digestion. Fiber helps to promote regular bowel movements, prevent constipation, and reduce bloating and inflammation in the digestive tract.
• Probiotics: Matcha can be made with hot or cold water, and when made with warm water, it can be a natural source of probiotics. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that live in the gut and help to promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.

4. Detoxifies your organism effectively

Amongst the many benefits of matcha, detoxification of the body stands out as one of its most important contributions to our overall well-being. The high concentration of chlorophyll in matcha is what gives it its vibrant green color and makes it a powerful detox agent. Chlorophyll drives out toxins and heavy metals from the body, helping to eliminate harmful substances that we ingest from our environment. 

5. Lowers cholesterol, blood sugar, and blood pressure

Matcha green tea is loaded with hearty antioxidants and plant compounds that have been linked to a plethora of health benefits. In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Heart Association found that regularly drinking matcha may help lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol, as well as A1C and blood pressure levels. 

6. Helps relaxing

If you're in need of a moment to unwind, consider sipping on some matcha tea. Drinking matcha has been noted for its calming effects. Matcha tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine, which helps to counteract the jolt-inducing effects of caffeine and promote a state of relaxed alertness and reduce anxiety. 

With its earthy taste and delicate aroma, matcha is the perfect beverage to indulge in when you're looking to slow down and take a breather. So next time you need a little bit of tranquility, reach for a cup of matcha and let its natural calming properties do the trick.

7. Matcha tea is linked to cancer prevention

There are incredibly high levels of antioxidants in matcha, notably epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been linked to cancer prevention. EGCG has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and even destroy them, besides green tea catechins levels are responsible for fighting cancer cells as well. 

A published study in the National Library of Medicine (America) found that  Matcha green tea inhibits the propagation of cancer stem cells, by targeting mitochondrial metabolism, glycolysis and multiple cell signaling pathways.

8. Boosts Brain Function

One of matcha benefits is its ability to boost brain function thanks to its amino acids. Matcha tea contains caffeine, which helps to promote alertness and concentration. Additionally, it contains a rare amino acid called L-Theanine, which has been shown to promote relaxation and reduce stress. 

This combination of caffeine and L-Theanine can help improve cognitive performance and enhance memory. So use green tea powder daily for a brain boost, and swap out your usual cup of coffee for a cup of matcha tea. Your brain (and taste buds) will thank you.

9. Boosts your energy without the crash

Matcha tea is known for its energizing properties and can be a great alternative to coffee or other caffeinated beverages. The energy boost from matcha is generally considered to be more sustained and less jittery than the energy boost from coffee or other highly caffeinated beverages, this is because matcha contains both caffeine and L-theanine, which have a synergistic effect on the body.

The caffeine in matcha tea is released slowly into the bloodstream over time. This means that you may experience a more sustained energy boost without the "crash" that can occur when the effects of caffeine wear off.

How to Prepare Matcha Tea: The Secret to the Perfect Cup

For a cold drink 

Mix 1/2-1 tsp (~2g) of Shade matcha with 2 oz of hot water. Mix well. Then add 12 oz of water or milk of choice over ice. If you prefer a sweeter beverage, add a dash of maple syrup or honey.

For a hot drink.

Mix 1/2 to 1 tsp (~2g) of Shade matcha with 2 oz of hot water. Mix well. Then add 12oz warm water or milk of choice. 

Ideal water temperature is 175F. Avoid boiling water as matcha is very delicate and it will burn your matcha.

Don't forget to use a traditional bamboo whisk, it's a must-have for any serious matcha lover that wants to make the perfect cup. 

And if you really want to impress your guests, why not try making matcha lattes? Just add steamed milk and a touch of honey for a delicious and energizing treat. Whether you're a seasoned matcha pro or a curious newbie, following these tips will ensure that your next cup of matcha is one to remember.

Do you want to find delicious and healthy matcha beverage recipes? Visit our recipe page!

Matcha nutrition facts

Calories

Are you a fan of matcha powders? Wondering how many calories in matcha powder you're actually consuming with each heavenly sip? 

Well, fear not my health-conscious comrades, as I am here to shed some light on the subject. In a single tablespoon of matcha powder, you can expect to find a mere 10 calories. That's right - this vibrant green fine powder is not only delicious, but it's also incredibly easy on the waistline.

And let's not forget about the antioxidant and metabolism-boosting benefits that come along with it. So go ahead, indulge in that matcha latte or smoothie bowl - your taste buds and your body will both thank you.

Protein

There is zero protein in a teaspoon of matcha.

Carbohydrates and Fiber

One teaspoon of matcha contains 1 single gram of carbohydrate which comes from the gram of fiber.

Fats and sugar

Matcha powder contains zero fat and zero sugar.

One teaspoon (2 g) of matcha contains the following nutrition facts:

• Calories: 10
• Protein: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 1g
• Sodium: 0g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 0g
• Caffeine: 50 mg

Matcha Vs Coffee: Who’s the winner?

You love your morning coffee. But after hearing about the health matcha tea benefits, you've started to wonder if switching up your go-to beverage might be a good idea. If you're debating between matcha and coffee, don't stress, we'll provide the full rundown on both beverages so you can decide which is best for keeping up with your daily health goals!

Coffee is a brewed beverage made from roasted coffee beans, which come from the seeds of the Coffea plant. These beans contain caffeine, which is why coffee is often referred to as a pick-me-up.

Now, let’s talk about some differences between these two.

1. Caffeine action

Caffeine is the fuel that keeps many of us running on a daily basis, but what exactly is it? It's a powerful stimulant found in various plant sources, most commonly coffee beans and tea leaves. This sneaky little chemical works by blocking the action of a neurotransmitter called adenosine, which is responsible for making us feel tired and sleepy. 

The difference between coffee caffeine and matcha tea caffeine is that coffee’s causes spikes in adrenaline glucose and insulin levels and raises cortisol levels, matcha won’t do that because it helps to stabilize blood sugar levels besides it is an anti-cortisol.

The caffeine in coffee and the caffeine in matcha tea act differently in the body. While they are both stimulants that can provide an energy boost and improve mental alertness and focus, the caffeine in matcha tea is metabolized differently than the caffeine in coffee.

Coffee typically contains more caffeine than matcha tea, and the caffeine in coffee is absorbed quickly into the bloodstream, leading to a relatively rapid energy boost. However, this also means that the effects of coffee can wear off relatively quickly, leading to the "crash" that is often associated with coffee.

In contrast, the caffeine in matcha tea is released more slowly into the bloodstream over time. This slow release of caffeine can provide a more sustained energy boost, without the sudden energy surge and subsequent crash that is often associated with coffee. Additionally, the L-theanine in matcha tea may help to mitigate the negative side effects of caffeine, such as jitters and insomnia, by promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

Overall, while both coffee and matcha tea can provide an energy boost and improve mental alertness, the caffeine in matcha tea may have a gentler, more sustained effect on the body compared to the caffeine in coffee.

2. Teeth care

Coffee tends to stain our teeth because of its color, matcha green tea is recommended by dentists. Coffee will also promote bad breath, while matcha green tea leaves no bad breath but is considered a sterilizer.

3. Health care

Both matcha tea and coffee contain antioxidants and other nutrients for the body. However, when you drink matcha green tea extract you are providing more antioxidant benefits (140 antioxidants, to be exact) to your body that improve skin health, promote heart health, and boost the immune system.

It’s time for a matcha transition!

It's time to switch up your caffeine routine and transition to matcha! Not only will you feel awesomely trendy while sipping on this vibrant green drink, but the health benefits of matcha tea are simply unmatched. Unlike coffee and energy drinks, matcha green tea provides a more sustained energy boost without the jitters or crashes. It's also packed with antioxidants, boosts metabolism, and even promotes relaxation thanks to the amino acid L-Theanine. Plus, there are endless ways to enjoy matcha – from classic lattes to tasty baked goods. 

Shade Matcha is here to change your life, so if you’re looking for a healthier and wiser option, don’t hesitate to check out our products today!