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Food

09th Feb 2024

Should we replace our coffee with Matcha? These are the health benefits

Jody Coffey

MATCHA

Before you shut me down, hear me out.

For a lot of us, the smell of coffee brewing symbolises the start of a new day.

Regardless of your coffee order, be it an oat flat white, like myself, or an Americano, are you open to the idea of saying goodbye to it?

I’m guessing the answer is no. However, are you open to a substitute that is equally good at reviving you first thing in the morning?

If you’re still reading, then I guess you are.

Matcha has many properties that strengthen and support our bodies, supplying vital nutrients and hydration to keep us healthy and happy.

It is a great alternative for anyone looking to switch out coffee from their diet.

Rhysa Phommachanh, health expert at Landys Chemist

What is Matcha?

It isn’t just a health and wellness craze on TikTok where users enjoy the aesthetic drink hot, iced, and in multiple other variations.

Match is a type of green tea made from powdered Camellia sinensis leaves, traditionally enjoyed across East Asia.

It’s identifiable by its bright green appearance, which I admit, put me off trying it for a very long time.

However, when I eventually gave in, I found that it not only has a smooth and creamy texture but has an earthy and bitter-free taste.

@sophiacarmin I love matcha 🤭 #aesthetic #pinterestaesthetic #aestheticinspo #pinterestgirl #matcha #matchaaesthetic ♬ original sound – Poosh

Why should I drink Matcha?

There is just one answer here: the health benefits.

Matcha is jam-packed full of antioxidants and nutrients, as well as being a concentrated source of vitamins and minerals.

These include vitamin C, potassium, and fibre.

Studies on green tea, including Matcha, have also revealed that it is linked to a reduction in the risk of strokes and heart disease.

@sofiaxtherese obsessed matcha type of girly #matcha #fyp #selflove ♬ want u – n’

Does Matcha have a caffeine crash?

It also has a better caffeine high when compared with coffee, according to Breakaway Matcha.

Where coffee can provide a quick burst of energy, followed by a crash and jitters because it spikes adrenaline glucose and insulin levels, Matcha comes on gently and leaves just as gently.

This is because the green hot drink is infused with L-theanine, an amino acid, giving a balanced and sustained energy boost.

This combination helps to enhance focus and concentration without the typical effects linked with high caffeine intake.

@msdlifestyle calling all matcha girlies 🍵 #matcha #matchaobsessed #strawberrymatcha #healthylifestyle #fyp #foryou ♬ original sound – Poosh

What do the experts say?

If you’re thinking about making the change, Rhysa Phommachanh, health expert at Landys Chemist, says the hype around the drink is justified.

“There has been a huge craze surrounding the health benefits of herbal teas, particularly matcha and rightly so.

“Matcha has many properties that strengthen and support our bodies, supplying vital nutrients and hydration to keep us healthy and happy.

“It is a great alternative for anyone looking to switch out coffee from their diet.”

This is all before you consider the taste.

Yes, it’s an acquired one, but try to see past the colour and any preconceptions you may have around it.

A year ago, I wouldn’t have dreamed of ordering a Matcha.

Today, a Matcha is a special treat that I look forward to, learning the health benefits is just an added bonus.

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