5 Reasons To Swap Your Morning Coffee For A Cup Of Matcha
by Vickie Chin on Aug 05, 2018
These days, many people are passing on their morning coffees and instead opting for matcha. You’ve probably either heard the name or seen it on the menu at your local coffee shop because matcha is rapidly becoming the drink of choice. For those of you who don’t know, matcha is a type of green tea native to the people of Japan. It is known for being the highest quality powdered green tea. Consumed for thousands of years in Eastern Asia, it is being increasingly consumed here in the West and is revered for its superfood qualities. People are swapping out their morning coffees and instead turning to matcha for their morning buzz. Matcha provides all of the benefits of caffeine and much, much more.
Here are 5 reasons you might consider hopping on the matcha train, a trend that is definitely here to stay:
- Matcha is packed with antioxidants
Matcha provides over 5 times as many antioxidants as many other superfoods and is the highest rated by the ORAC method. The ORAC method measures oxygen radical absorbance capacity. To compare, matcha has an ORAC score of roughly 1573 units per gram while coffee has 0 per 4 grams. To put this even more in perspective, goji berries, which are revered for being rich in antioxidants, has a score of 253.
- Matcha contains cancer fighting properties
Matcha, loaded with antioxidants, contains a specific set of compounds called catechins. Catechins are made up of compounds themselves, but one of those compounds are called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCg). EGCg is recognized for having cancer fighting properties, and the catechins found in matcha are made up of 60% EGCg. Although many people hold the average green tea in high regard for its cancer fighting properties, Matcha contains more than 100 times the amount of EGCg than any other tea.
- Matcha boosts your metabolism
Drinking matcha could also help to burn more calories as it has been shown to increase metabolism while helping the body burn more fat than on average.
- Matcha helps to detoxify the body of metals and toxins
Matcha contains chlorophyll, the pigment in the plant that allows it to absorb light during photosynthesis, which in turn creates energy. Chlorophyll also acts as a detoxifier in the body, helping to rid it of heavy metals, chemicals and toxins. Chlorophyll has also been linked to natural cancer prevention through the ways that it binds to carcinogens in the body, preventing them from traveling throughout the body and causing harm.
- Surprisingly, matcha instills calm and is quite relaxing:
Unlike coffee, which can sometimes have you feeling a little too buzzed and sometimes jittery, matcha actually enhances a sense of calmness while keeping your alert and focused. This is possible due to the amino acid, L-theanine present in matcha. This amino acid aids in the production of alpha waves within the brain. These waves are known for their relaxing effects but unlike other downers, does not cause drowsiness and instead allows you to maintain focus and stay alert.
Bonus: It’s delicious!
Matcha can be enjoyed simply on its own, mixed with hot or cold water. However, if you’re used to a creamy cup of coffee with a hint of sweetness, give our Matcha Latte a try. Trust us, it’s worth it!