What is Matcha?

Matcha is a finely ground powder derived from high-quality green tea leaves. Unlike traditional tea, where leaves are steeped, Matcha powder is whisked into hot water to create a frothy beverage. The Japanese tea ceremony revolves around the art of preparing, serving, and enjoying Matcha.

This versatile powder is now a popular ingredient in beverages like tea lattes and bubble tea, and is also used in recipes ranging from ice cream to salad dressings.

Matcha's Nutritional Profile

For those interested in the health benefits of Matcha, just half a teaspoon, typically 1.5 to 2 grams, contains:

• 5 calories
• Protein: 3 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Carbs: 0 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 0 g

Caffeine Content of Matcha

Matcha contains more caffeine than green tea, similar to black tea, but less than brewed coffee. The caffeine level can vary based on how the Matcha is prepared. Here’s a quick comparison of caffeine content in common beverages:

• Green Tea: 24 to 40 mg
• Black Tea: 14 to 61 mg
• Matcha: 25 to 70 mg
• Brewed Coffee: 85 to 200 mg

The reason I embarked on this journey was to explore the potential health benefits, knowing that everyone reacts differently to tea and coffee.

7 Notable Health Benefits of Matcha

According to Dr. Frank Hu, Matcha is more nutrient-dense due to its whole leaf composition. Some of the health benefits include:

• High in antioxidants
• Helps eliminate toxins and heavy metals
• Supports liver health
• Reduces inflammation
• Acts as an appetite suppressant
• Enhances cognitive function—my focus notably improved
• May promote cardiovascular health over time
• Studies suggest it may reduce the risk of certain cancers
• Supports cellular regeneration and slows aging
• Boosts immunity

How I Consumed Matcha

Matcha is easily accessible at grocery stores, health food shops, and online; I prefer ordering from Amazon. Once opened, it typically remains fresh for about two months, so storing it in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer can help prolong its shelf life.

The most common way to prepare Matcha is by mixing a teaspoon of the powder with hot water and whisking until frothy. Here are some enjoyable recipes I experimented with:

• Iced or hot Matcha latte
• Smoothies
• Ice cream
• Cakes

I primarily opted for the simplest methods:

1. Hot latte
2. Pre-workout drink

Choosing the Right Time for Matcha

I found it beneficial to consume Matcha:

• Pre-workout for an energy boost
• In the morning as a coffee alternative
• After meals (though I personally avoided this)

For quality sleep, I recommend steering clear of caffeine after 6 PM.

Week 1: Initial Challenges

During my Matcha challenge, I eliminated coffee and other caffeine sources like chocolate and sodas. I aimed for two cups of Matcha in the first week to gauge its effects. However, I didn’t notice significant changes in my energy levels and felt more fatigued than usual—likely due to my reduced caffeine intake.

Week 2: A Shift in Focus

By day nine, I began to experience increased focus. I consistently consumed 1/2 teaspoon in the morning and one teaspoon before workouts. The calming, energizing effects of Matcha started to manifest, which I found encouraging.

Note: Throughout the challenge, I maintained a balanced diet.

Week 3: Craving Matcha

By the third week, I found myself craving Matcha first thing in the morning. I realized that the pleasant grassy aroma I enjoyed was due to the high levels of L-Theanine, an amino acid known for promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

How to Assess Matcha Quality

While all Matcha is powdered green tea, not all powdered green tea is Matcha. According to Lauren Danson, lower-grade Matcha can smell stale or even fishy.

Week 4: Positive Results

By week four, I was thrilled with the results of my challenge. I felt like I was fueling my body with something beneficial. I found myself preferring Matcha over coffee, and my wife even commented on how clear my skin looked—possibly due to either Matcha or my new skincare routine.

The Final Verdict

In conclusion, I’m delighted that I took on the Matcha challenge and plan to continue incorporating it into my diet. Based on the numerous health benefits, I encourage others to try Matcha for at least 30 days to experience its positive effects.

Rich in antioxidants, Matcha has been shown to aid in weight loss and improve heart health. The beauty of Matcha lies in its versatility—you can enjoy it in smoothies, pre-workout drinks, cakes, or simply as tea. Personally, I prefer it as a traditional tea.

Book Recommendation: Matcha Cookbook: 55 Matcha Recipes for Energy, Health & Longevity

Thank you for taking the time to read about my journey. Please follow me for more insights!