Matcha, matcha, matcha!
No, it's not a dance move. It's the new trendy green tea powder that's taking the world by storm. Most have heard of matcha powder but is it worth all the hype? Below we clarify a few facts and myths about matcha that you should know before you join the cause. Such as, are the best effects from a latte or applied via skincare? Let's find out!
Super Green Tea, FACT - Matcha is a type of green tea that's made from finely ground leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. Unlike regular green tea, which is steeped in hot water and then discarded, matcha leaves are whisked with hot water and consumed whole. This means that you get all the benefits of the tea leaves, including antioxidants, caffeine, amino acids, vitamins and minerals.
Boost Metabolism, MYTH - One of the most common claims about matcha is that it boosts your metabolism. While there is some evidence that green tea can increase your energy expenditure and fat oxidation, the effect is not very significant and depends on many factors, such as your diet, exercise and genetics. So don't expect matcha to be a magic bullet for weight loss. Instead implement three simple changes that may have a higher impact. First is eating slower. This allows the natural full trigger of "feeling full" to activate which in turn signals satiation (fullness). It takes about 20 minutes from the start of eating for your brain to signal a full belly. Stretch out eating over the entire 20 minutes and you may be surprised what is still left on your plate. Speaking of the plate, this is the second change. Toss the larger plates aside and use the midsize plates. Do not over fill or add seconds and if you are still hungry after 20 minutes, you simply ate way to fast. Then lastly, do not eat for 3 hours before bed. Anything you eat 3 hours or less before you sleep will not be burned off in energy, therefore most of it is stored as a fat reserve. Making just one of these changes will help, making all three changes will set you up for continued success.
All Matcha Green Tea is Equal, MYTH - natural products render best results when sourced from their native origin. Genuine matcha is key to results. True matcha green tea is grown and processed in Japan, period. To get authentic matcha green tea leaves or powder, make sure it is from Japan. Yes, this will cost a little more but is well worth it in the long run. In short, native Japan matcha leaves that are processed in China loss potency as almost no regulations exist in these processing plants, therefore what you end up with is anyone's guess.
Another myth about matcha is that it's better than coffee for your health and mood. While matcha does contain caffeine, it also has a compound called L-theanine, which is said to promote relaxation and calmness. Some studies have shown that L-theanine can reduce stress and anxiety, and enhance cognitive performance and mood. However, these effects are not exclusive to matcha, and can also be found in other types of tea or supplements.
Matcha is Beneficial in Skincare, FACT - While matcha green tea leaves and powder can be added to your favorite skin care potions - various PH levels in serums and creams can deactivate the potency very quickly. For a quick matcha daily dose, mix matcha powder into an application of your favorite neutral lotion. For more effective results, use a popular, high potency combined stable green tea and retinol formula (available via Amazon Prime or Here) and be amazed.
13 Reasons to Love Matcha Green Tea:
Well, we're here to tell you that matcha green tea is not only delicious, but also has some amazing benefits for your health and well-being. Here are 13 reasons why you should love matcha green tea!
- It's packed with antioxidants. Matcha green tea contains more antioxidants than any other tea, and even more than blueberries, dark chocolate, or red wine. Antioxidants help protect your cells from damage and aging, and may lower your risk of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
- It may give you an energy boost. Matcha green tea contains caffeine in addition to a compound called EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). EGCG increases the rate of thermogenesis, which is the process of heat production in your body. This means you can enjoy your matcha latte and enjoy a boost of energy to get those daunting tasks completed. But be sure to hydrate as caffeine consumption should be balanced with increased water intake for optimal daily hydration.
- It may enhance your mood and concentration. Matcha green tea contains a unique amino acid called L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and alertness. L-theanine also boosts the production of alpha waves in your brain, which are associated with creativity and focus. Plus, matcha green tea has caffeine, but not as much as coffee, so you won't get the jitters or crash later.
- It may detoxify your body. Matcha green tea is grown under shade, which increases the chlorophyll content in the leaves. Chlorophyll is a natural pigment that gives plants their green color, and also helps cleanse your blood and liver of toxins and heavy metals. Drinking matcha green tea can help you flush out the bad stuff and feel refreshed.
- It may improve your skin. Matcha green tea has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help reduce acne, redness, and irritation on your skin. It also protects your skin from UV damage and free radicals, which can cause wrinkles and sagging. Drinking matcha green tea can make your skin glow from within, and you can also use it as a face mask or scrub for extra benefits.
- It may strengthen your immune system. Matcha green tea is rich in catechins, which are powerful phytochemicals that can fight off viruses and bacteria. Matcha green tea can also help balance your pH levels and alkalize your body, which can prevent inflammation and disease. Drinking matcha green tea can help you ward off colds, flu, and infections.
- It may lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. Matcha green tea can help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise your HDL (good) cholesterol, which can prevent plaque buildup in your arteries and lower your risk of heart attack or stroke. Matcha green tea can also relax your blood vessels and improve blood flow, which can lower your blood pressure and improve circulation.
- It may prevent tooth decay and bad breath. Matcha green tea contains fluoride, which strengthens your enamel and prevents cavities. It also inhibits the growth of bacteria that cause plaque and bad breath in your mouth. Drinking matcha green tea can keep your teeth healthy and your breath fresh.
- It tastes amazing. Matcha green tea has a smooth, creamy, and slightly sweet flavor that is unlike any other tea. You can enjoy it hot or cold, plain or with milk and sugar, or even in smoothies, desserts, or cocktails. There are so many ways to enjoy matcha green tea that you'll never get bored of it.
- It's easy to prepare. Unlike other teas that require steeping for a certain amount of time and temperature, matcha green tea is simple to make. All you need is a bowl, a whisk, some hot water, and some matcha powder. Just whisk the powder with the water until it forms a frothy layer on top, and voila! You have a perfect cup of matcha green tea in minutes.
- It's fun to share. Matcha green tea is not only a drink, but also a culture and a tradition. In Japan, matcha green tea is used for ceremonial purposes, where people gather to enjoy the art of preparing and drinking it in a mindful way. You can also share matcha green tea with your friends and family, and bond over its delicious taste and benefits.
- It's good for the planet. Matcha green tea is grown organically without pesticides or chemicals, which means it's better for the environment and the farmers who produce it. Matcha green tea also uses less water and energy than other teas, since you only need a small amount of powder to make a cup. By choosing matcha green tea over other beverages, you're doing your part to reduce waste and pollution.
- It's good for you. Matcha green tea is one of the healthiest drinks you can have, and it can improve your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether you drink it for its taste, its benefits, or its culture, matcha green tea can make you happier and healthier.
The bottom line is that matcha is a delicious and nutritious drink that can offer some health benefits, but it's not a miracle cure for anything. As with anything, moderation is key. Too much matcha can cause side effects such as insomnia, headaches, nausea or diarrhea. So enjoy your matcha in moderation, and don't believe everything you hear about it!
So what are you waiting for? Grab some matcha green tea powder today and enjoy its amazing qualities. You'll be glad you did!
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