It is time to ‘go green’ and swap your morning coffee for a cup of matcha which seems
to be all the craze right now. Whilst drinking a cup of green tea is healthy, many of the insoluble nutrients stay trapped within the leaves which are thrown away. The Japanese then solved this dilemma by grinding the green tea leaves into a very fine powder, this creating matcha which is equivalent to TEN cups of green tea! The result? No leaves, no waste and a nutrient-rich cup of green that that’s naturally high in protein and fibre, low in sugars, fat-free and salt free. Alongside matcha being said to be the most potent detox in the world, see below ten more fascinating things you didn’t know about this Japanese antioxidant power-house.
1. Get the glow and slow down ageing
Studies have shown that matcha delivers a massive amount of antioxidants per gram, which can help reduce tissue damage caused by UV radiation and pollution for a natural ‘anti-aging’ regime. Matcha has true bioavailability, which means the body actually absorbs the nutrients consumed to give your skin a detox-glow
2. Natural release of energy, without the coffee slump
Endurance from matcha’s slow release caffeine can last up to 4 hours as L-Theanine prevents any caffeine spikes and downers, unlike coffee and sugary energy drinks. BLOOM Tea launched their SUPERCHARGE matcha with maca root and guarana for an added energy burst.
3. Strengthens the immune system with antibiotic properties
Matcha contains trace minerals and vitamins (A, B-complex, C, E, and K), chlorophyll, and is a source of dietary fibre and has as little as 3 calories per serving. Research has shown that catechins present in matcha have antibiotic properties that build a stronger Immune System to defend against viruses.
4. Burns up to 40% more calories
Research has proven that matcha has been shown to increase thermogenesis, the rate at which our bodies’ burn calories, from 10% to 40% of daily energy use. Matcha can boost metabolism and burn fat by up to four times without raising blood pressure or heart rate and its alkaline, which helps your body’s PH balance too.
5. Potent detoxing
The green tea leaves used to make matcha are shaded at the latter stage of growth, which spikes chlorophyll and amino acid production. Chlorophyll fortifies the Immune System and also removes heavy elements and harmful chemicals from our bodies.
6. Actively fights cancer
Scientists have discovered that matcha contains EGCg catechins (antioxidants) recognised for their cancer fighting properties and studies show matcha contains 100 x more EGCg than any other tea.
7. Reduces stress and anxiety
Despite matcha containing a low 30mg caffeine, it is regulated by L-Theanine (amino acid), which doesn’t stimulate cortisol (stress hormone) like caffeine from coffee does. Instead, it promotes relaxed awareness without the drowsiness caused by other calming products.
8. Boosts memory and concentration
It has been said that L-Theanine increases the production of dopamine and serotonin which enhances mood, promotes better concentration and improves memory for up to 4 hours.
9. Improves cholesterol balance
Medical research papers have shown that matcha can lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise levels of HDL (good) cholesterol.
10. Naturally high in fibre
Matcha contains a high level of dietary fibre which is absorbed straight into the body to help maintain a healthy gut. This is particularly important for stabilising blood sugar levels and easing constipation.
Available at Holland & Barrett, Harvey Nichols, Ocado.com, Selfridges, Planet Organic, Wholefoods and BloomTea.co.uk