The 6 Properties of Matcha Tea Beneficial for Your Health
You're probably already familiar with some of the health benefits of green tea. Its weight loss benefits, its powerful antioxidant properties, and its immune system enhancement are some of its most studied benefits, and the reason why more and more people are starting to drink it daily.
Today we know that matcha tea is the green tea with the greatest benefits , and this is due to its much higher content of several chemical compounds: L-theanine, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), theine, and vitamin C. Read on to learn a little more about these components and how they influence the properties of matcha tea.
What is matcha tea?
Matcha tea is a green tea powder derived from the leaves of the tea plant known as Camellia sinensis. Other teas, such as black tea, white tea, blue tea (oolong tea), and red tea (Pu Erh) are also obtained from the leaves of this plant.
The tea plants grown to produce matcha leaves are grown entirely in the shade , which results in a significant increase in the levels of chlorophyll and other healthy compounds in the tea leaves.
Matcha tea powder is mixed into hot water and consumed as tea. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are discarded after brewing, matcha tea drinkers consume the entire leaf when drinking matcha powder. Because of this, matcha is considered one of the healthiest teas , as all the compounds are ingested and absorbed by the body.
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Components of matcha tea
The main components of matcha green tea are L-theanine, EGCG, theine, and vitamin C. L-theanine is an amino acid found primarily in tea and a type of mushroom. This amino acid inhibits the rapid release of theine, resulting in a smoother, more even energy boost. L-theanine is often attributed to increased energy and improved mental focus without the side effects associated with coffee.
EGCG is an antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate. This antioxidant has been linked to the prevention of certain types of cancer and a lower risk of heart disease. Matcha tea also contains vitamins and minerals that contribute to overall health and immune function. Read on to learn how these components influence the properties of matcha tea.
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Properties of matcha tea
- Eliminates free radicals
- Helps you lose weight
- Increases concentration and relaxation
- Protects heart health
- Helps prevent diabetes
- Increases immune system function
1. Eliminates free radicals
Matcha tea is the tea with the highest amount of antioxidants . Antioxidants help cleanse the body of free radicals , which can cause oxidative stress. Oxidation is a natural process that occurs as we gradually age. Problems arise when oxidative stress occurs at elevated levels when it is accelerated by external agents such as pollution, unhealthy diets, and smoking.
Free radicals have been linked to a number of degenerative diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and premature aging. The antioxidants in matcha tea help detoxify free radicals from the body and prevent excess oxidation. These antioxidants also help eliminate heavy metals from the body that can cause serious illnesses.
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2. Helps you lose weight
Matcha tea powder is revered for its ability to aid weight loss. Consuming matcha speeds up metabolism and increases fat burning by signaling the body to burn fat stores and convert them into energy . This benefit of the tea is largely attributed to the presence of EGCG in matcha tea. Theine has also been shown to influence fat burning by raising body temperature and helps with exercise by reducing fatigue.
Plus, matcha tea is calorie-free , making it an ideal choice for people looking to lose weight. Replace sugary sports drinks or soda with a cup of matcha tea and you'll notice the difference.
3. Increases concentration and relaxation
The L-theanine present in matcha is responsible for these relaxation-enhancing properties. L-theanine causes the brain to produce alpha waves, which naturally induce relaxation.
L-theanine also causes the brain to release increased amounts of dopamine and serotonin. These two compounds are known for their ability to improve mood and increase focus . Drinking a cup of matcha tea can provide a moderate energy boost while simultaneously inducing calmness and mental alertness.
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4. Protects heart health
Matcha green tea may help you live a longer, healthier life by protecting you against several diseases, including heart disease. Studies have shown that matcha can help regulate blood pressure and lower cholesterol levels , reducing the risk of heart attack. Regular consumption of matcha tea may also help prevent blood clots and other serious heart disorders.
A meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition investigated 14 scientific studies and the links between green tea and cholesterol. Researchers found that green tea significantly reduced bad cholesterol, or LDL. Green tea was also shown to reduce triglyceride levels and lower blood pressure.
5. Helps prevent diabetes
Matcha tea may also help control blood sugar levels and prevent health complications caused by diabetes. A study published in the Diabetes & Metabolism Journal found that green tea has antidiabetic effects and may improve insulin tolerance. These benefits were attributed to green tea's high concentration of EGCG.
6. Boosts immune system function
Matcha tea contains high levels of minerals and vitamins that promote overall immune health. Matcha tea contains vitamin C, which has long been linked to a healthy immune system.
Drinking this powdered green tea can help protect against the common cold and flu. Green tea also has antibacterial properties that help eliminate bacteria from the digestive system that can cause stomach upset.
Start drinking matcha tea for radiant health
Green tea is the most talked-about tea for its health benefits. Matcha tea goes one step further, containing all the beneficial compounds of green tea in a higher concentration. Drink a few cups of matcha tea every day and you'll notice how much better you start to feel.
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