The Various Health Benefits of Matcha Green Tea
Matcha is rich in antioxidants, which are substances that protect our cells from damage. Studies have shown that matcha has more antioxidants than other types of green tea, and even more than some fruits and vegetables! These antioxidants can help to prevent chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and stroke. The leaves are picked, steamed, dried, and then ground into a fine powder. This powder is then used to make a tea by mixing it with hot water. Matcha has been gaining popularity in recent years due to its many health benefits.
Improves Brain Function
One of the most impressive health benefits of matcha is that it can help enhance your cognitive function. This is thanks to the presence of L-Theanine, an amino acid that’s been shown to promote relaxation and improve focus. L-Theanine helps balance out the stimulating effects of caffeine, resulting in improved attention span and reduced anxiety. Additionally, one animal study found that L-Theanine enhanced memory formation.
Protect The Liver
Matcha green tea has been shown to be protective against various liver diseases including fatty liver, alcoholic liver disease, and oxidative stress-related damage. In a study of rats with alcoholic liver disease, matcha was found to improve liver function and protect against liver damage. In another study, rats were given a high-fat diet to induce fatty liver disease and matcha was again found to be protective against liver damage.
Promote Heart Health
Matcha is rich in a nutrient called catechin. Catechins are natural antioxidants that fight and may even prevent some types of cancer. One type of catechin called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (or EGCG for short) has been shown to be particularly effective. A large body of scientific evidence suggests that matcha promotes heart health by helping to prevent atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries.
Other studies have shown that catechins like EGCG can help relax blood vessels and improve blood flow. This can help reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Matcha also contains small amounts of caffeine and L-theanine. These compounds work together to improve brain function and keep you alert without causing jitters or anxiety like coffee can.
Reduces Inflammation
One of the top matcha health benefits is its ability to fight inflammation. Matcha is rich in a type of polyphenol called catechins. These plant compounds have powerful antioxidant effects, helping to reduce inflammation throughout the body. In fact, one test-tube study showed that matcha had higher levels of catechins than other types of green tea. Similarly, another test-tube study observed that matcha was able to decrease markers of inflammation in human cells.
Prevents Cancer
Matcha is rich in antioxidants including the powerful EGCG, which research has shown to be effective at preventing the growth of cancer cells. This doesn’t just apply to ovarian, bladder, and colon cancers either. Matcha has also been linked with reduced risks of breast cancer and prostate cancer. One study even found that men who consumed matcha daily had a lower risk of developing aggressive prostate cancer.