Matcha, the bright green powdered tea, has taken the world by storm in recent years. And it’s not just a fad- matcha has been used in Japanese tea ceremonies and traditional medicine for centuries. But besides being a trendy beverage, matcha is also hailed as a superfood. That’s because matcha is not just an ordinary tea- it’s made from the whole tea leaf, ground into a fine powder, which means you get all the nutrients and benefits of the tea.  In this post, we’ll explore five reasons why matcha is a superfood and give you some great ideas for how to incorporate it into your cooking and baking, not just as a tea. So, let’s dive in and embrace the power of this mighty green powder!

 

Packed with Antioxidants

Matcha is bursting with antioxidants, which help to protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Just one cup of matcha has up to 10 times more antioxidants than a normal cup of green tea, making it one of the best sources of antioxidants out there.

 

Supports a Healthy Heart

Matcha is also good for your heart. The tea has been shown to lower levels of LDL or “bad” cholesterol, which can lead to heart disease. Additionally, matcha contains high levels of catechins, which can improve blood flow and lower the risk of hypertension.

 

Boosts Brainpower

Matcha also contains caffeine, which may account for its ability to improve mental clarity and focus. However, unlike coffee, the caffeine in matcha is slowly released over time, which means you don’t experience the crash and burn that often comes with coffee. Plus, matcha contains theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and calmness, which complements the caffeine’s energy-boosting properties.

 

Enhances Weight Loss

Matcha is known to have a thermogenic effect, which means it boosts metabolism and helps burn fat. Additionally, matcha contains EGCG, a type of catechin that has been found to aid in weight loss. This combination of weight loss benefits makes matcha an excellent addition to a weight loss plan.

 

Versatile in Cooking and Baking

Matcha is not just for tea- you can use it in cooking and baking, too. From sweet baked treats like matcha macarons and matcha muffins to savoury dishes like matcha green pesto pasta, matcha is a great addition to many recipes. Its unique flavour profile and bright green colour is sure to impress guests and make your meals stand out.

 

So, there you have it, five reasons why matcha is a superfood that you need to add to your diet. Whether you’re enjoying a comforting cup of matcha tea or using the powder in your next baking recipe, there are plenty of ways to embrace the power of this vibrant green powder. So go ahead, be bold, and try something new! Your body will thank you for it.