MATCHA - SO MUCH MORE THAN JUST A CUP OF TEA!

Matcha, a type of green tea grown and produced in Japan for hundreds of years, contains an intense amount of "catechins" or plant components that act as antioxidants and prevent damage to cells and protect against chronic diseases. In fact, a study indicated that the catechin content in Matcha tea is 137 times higher than that found in other green teas.

Matcha tea leaves are ground into a fine powder more concentrated than regular tea producing enhanced effects.

Compared to regular teas where we steep the leaves in hot water and throw them out, when you add Matcha powder to hot water, the tea you obtain contains all the nutrients that exist in the whole leaf. Therefore, it contains a much more concentrated amount of antioxidants when compared to regular tea.

All types of tea are extracted from a plant called "Camellia sinensis", but the varieties differ according to the place of their growth, the way they are grown, harvested and processed. Matcha is different from ordinary green tea as it grows in the shade for period of time and is harvested in a specific and traditional manner carried down through generations. 

Today, Matcha tea is widely available however high quality is tricky to find. 

Before purchasing Matcha powder, you should pay attention to the following factors:

• The best quality Matcha is of Japanese origin. Always read the label and pay attention to the country of origin. You will find that Matcha coming from China is much cheaper than Japanese Matcha. Don't be tempted by the lower prices; you will be disappointed. 

• The brighter green the Matcha powder, the better the quality and the sweeter the taste. The best quality tea is sweet and smooth, while the poor quality Matcha has an astringent flavor and unpleasant aroma.

• Once you open the Matcha bag, the powder will be exposed to air, light, and moisture as well, so it is advisable to consume it within two weeks. 

• Always read the label to make sure you are purchasing pure Matcha powder. There should be no additives or other ingredients in the bag and it definitely should not be pre-mixed with any liquids. 
  
  

• Matcha powder should be kept in a dark container or an opaque and air-tight bag. The spoon that is dipped in the bag should be completely dry and clean. It is advisable to not wash the Matcha scoop with water, simply wipe it well. 

• Matcha powder can be used for cooking and baking. It will carry the same benefits in your food. It is advisable to use Culinary grade Matcha powder for cooking and baking (not ceremonial grade). The quality and the benefits of the powder is the same. The only difference is that the Culinary grade powder is made from older leaves and not as finely as the Ceremonial powders. You will find that Culinary grade powders are cheaper than Ceremonial grade powders. Again, do not be tempted to buy the Culinary grade powders to use it as tea - you will not enjoy it as it will taste slightly bitter. 

• Poor quality Matcha has a brown/yellow color, grainy texture, bitter taste and an unpleasant odor.

 Why is Matcha more than a cup of tea?

Matcha tea is naturally healthy, rich in fiber, chlorophyll and vitamins. It provides various health and beauty benefits:

• Its high levels of catechins, as mentioned in the beginning of this blog, deactivates the free radicals caused by chemicals, pollution, radiation, and ultraviolet radiation.

• It contains Vitamin C, selenium, chromium, zinc and magnesium are found.

• It reduces cholesterol levels, protects against heart disease and promotes liver health.

• It lowers blood pressure, as catechin appears to be very helpful in lowering blood pressure when the higher blood pressure is 130 or more.

• It is linked to low blood sugar levels: a study indicated that the consumption of green tea in a large number of middle-aged men and women in Japan is linked to a lower risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

• Burns calories and boosts metabolism: A study published in the American Journal of Medical Nutrition indicated that drinking Matcha tea would increase the rate of burning in the body from 8 to 10 percent to reach between 35 and 43 percent per day.

• Calms the mind and relaxes the body: Matcha tea is rich in "L-Theanine" which is an amino acid that promotes relaxation and wellness by creating alpha waves in the mind leading to a state of awakening mixed with relief. Although this substance is found in all types of tea, it is five times more present in Matcha tea

• It helps maintain alertness and focus because it contains caffeine. In Matcha, the effect of caffeine, which results in nervousness and acceleration in the heart rate, is opposed by the effect of L-Theanine, which promotes relaxation and reduces the speed of the heart rate. 

• Not only do you need Matcha tea for its nutritional content, but it can also be fun to use! It can be added to sauces, iced drinks, main dishes, desserts, ice cream and even cocktails!

      

Matcha tea has many health benefits, and this type of tea is an excellent way to enhance your health and give health benefits to your daily life.