Matcha also contains a compound called L-theanine, which alters the effects of caffeine, promoting alertness and helping avoid the crash in energy levels that can follow caffeine consumption ( 8). Mira et al. Interactions of flavonoids with iron and copper ions: a mechanism for their antioxidant activity. Free Radic Res. 2002 Nov; 36(11):1199-208. Weiss and Anderton. Determination of catechins in matcha green tea by micellar electrokinetic chromatography. J Chromatogr A. 2003 Sep 5;1011(1-2):173-80. Journal of Indian Society of Periodontology: “Green tea: A boon for periodontal and general health.” Wierzejska R. Tea and health--a review of the current state of knowledge. Przegl Epidemiol. 2014;68(3):501-599.

Antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties and help neutralize free radicals in the body, says Hunnes. Polyphenols, present in high amounts in matcha, are a particularly powerful form of antioxidant. Research suggests phenolic acids, a type of polyphenol present in matcha, may reduce the risk of some cancers. Frontiers in Psychology: “Caffeine enhances memory performance in young adults during their non-optimal time of day.” It is reported that the consumption of a beverage containing green tea extract, caffeine, and calcium solution is able to increase energy expenditure by up to 4.6% over a 24-hr period in healthy humans [2]. This has led to great interest of its use in the diet industry, as an increase in energy consumption is likely to have enormous positive benefits with regards to weight control. Glucose and Carbohydrate Metabolism Doctor Yokozawa et al. Antioxidative activity of green tea polyphenol in cholesterol-fed rats. Journal Agric Food Chemistry. 2002 Jun 5; 50(12):3549-52.It is thought that most of the helpful benefits associated with drinking tea are related to it being a rich source of bioactive constituents. These include well-known molecules such as caffeine, l-theanine, polyphenols, and flavonoids. The polyphenolic compound Epigallocatechin-3- O-gallate (EGCG) is the most abundant of the green tea catechins and is thought to be its main bioactive ingredient. It is widely reported that green tea is a rich source of antioxidants [2]. These compounds play a major role in protecting cells and DNA from damage from reactive oxygen species (ROS) such as free radicals and superoxides [7]. Catechins, such as those found in Matcha, are reported to increase the total antioxidant activity in the plasma [8]. Matcha powder is a versatile ingredient. “Traditionally it can be brewed into tea, but it can also be added to smoothies, baked goods, ice creams, homemade popsicles and desserts. You can also sprinkle it on popcorn,” says Anderson. Rutin is a powerful antioxidant that works along with vitamin C to enhance the body’s cardiovascular system and strengthen blood vessels. It has anti-diabetic and anti-inflammatory properties. You should not take food supplements as a substitute for a varied balanced diet or a healthy lifestyle.

When scientists at the University of Toyama gave diabetic rats matcha for 16 weeks, it prevented damage to their kidneys and liver. However, consuming too much matcha may actually cause symptoms of liver or kidney toxicity – so enjoy the drink in moderation. 4. Matcha enhances brain function American Journal of Clinical Nutrition: “Green tea intake lowers fasting serum total and LDL cholesterol in adults: a meta-analysis of 14 randomized controlled trials.” Pregnancy and breastfeeding: In general, few clinical trials have studied green tea in pregnant or breastfeeding people. But in Italy, the permitted (approved) maximum daily amount is 120 mg of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) during pregnancy or while breastfeeding. EGCG is an active substance in matcha at highly concentrated amounts. Since there is little information about the effects and safety of matcha while pregnant or breastfeeding, reach out to a healthcare provider to discuss the benefits and risks. The traditional Japanese tea ceremony centres on the preparation of matcha with water to make hot tea. Matcha is now a common ingredient in many dishes as a flavouring or food dye, such as mochi, noodles, and ice cream. Severe allergic reaction: A severe allergic reaction is a serious side effect possible with any medication. If you're having a severe allergic reaction to matcha, symptoms may include breathing difficulties, itchiness, and rash.The consumption of green teas is thought to have numerous potential health benefits. These include the support of healthy cells, support of the cardiovascular systems and the heart, of blood pressure, a healthy control of blood glucose levels, support of the immune system, and the control of body weight [2]. Weight Control Studies using rats suggest that catechin polyphenols are able to reduce triglyceride levels in the plasma [6]. The glutathione found in tea extracts is also reported to have antioxidant effects and is thought to act in the liver to inhibit lipid peroxidation [2]. Antioxidant Activity and Ion Absorption You can make traditional matcha tea by sifting 1–2 teaspoons (2–4 grams) of matcha powder into your cup, adding 2 ounces (59 ml) of hot water, and mixing it together with a bamboo whisk. Perhaps the biggest difference between drinking traditional green tea and Matcha is that when you consume Matcha you consume the leaves themselves, whereas with a tea diffusion you are only drinking its soluble extracts. This can mean that in Matcha the constituents are more effective, partially because they are not subjected to degradation by boiling water and also because you will get to consume non-soluble tea extracts. Composition of Green Tea Matcha