Tea is a beverage that most people consume so frequently that we should all know which type of tea gives you the most health benefits.
Tea isn’t just any beverage; it has a unique set of compounds called catechins that have been shown to improve health. Catechins are flavonoids that primarily act as antioxidants that help prevent damage to our cells, reduce inflammation, and reduce the formation of harmful free radical substances in our cells.
Because many diseases seen today like cancer, autoimmune disease, heart disease, and even others like arthritis, are linked to inflammation and damage to our cells, foods high in catechins such as tea, apples, and cocoa are of significant value to our health.
When it comes to tea, not all tea comes created equal. Some forms of tea are healthier than others. Green tea towers above the rest, mainly because it has a very high concentration of one specific catechin called EGCG (Epigallocatechin gallate) which is more powerful than most others. When thinking about a healthy tea, green tea has royalty status.
But, there is even more exciting news. Even among green teas, there is one that is the king among the royals. That is none other than Matcha green tea.
Matcha is a concentrated powdered form of green tea that has been used for centuries in Japan and China to enhance health and well-being. Matcha is made from the same leaves used to make most tea, but the plants that are grown to make Matcha undergo a unique process to ensure that the chlorophyll and catechin levels are increased about two weeks before harvesting.
Here are 10 reasons why you should drink matcha tea regularly.
1. Extremely high in antioxidants, particularly EGCG
I’ve already mentioned that matcha tea is high in antioxidants. Antioxidants play a crucial role in preventing several life-threatening diseases like cancer and cardiovascular diseases, fighting against the adverse effects of cancer-causing radiation and even giving us younger-looking skin. As already mentioned, Matcha has a considerable amount of the catechin EGCG, which makes up 60% of the catechins in Matcha Green Tea. In fact, some scientists have found that after harvest, matcha tea contains over 100 times more EGCG than any other tea on the market.
2. Has potent antiviral activity including against respiratory viruses
The catechins in Matcha have been shown to have antibiotic properties, specifically antiviral properties targeting respiratory viruses. And research has confirmed this. One study showed that catechins in tea inhibit the spread of the influenza virus and some cold viruses, particularly those that affect the respiratory tract. Other studies have even suggested that the nutrients in Matcha may have the ability to inhibit the attacks of HIV on human T-cells. Additionally, Matcha provides substantial quantities of Potassium, Vitamins A & C, Iron, and calcium needed for immune system health
3. It detoxifies the body
The high levels of chlorophyll in Matcha from the way the plant is grown not only give this tea its beautiful vibrant green color but also ensure that Matcha is a powerful detoxifier capable of naturally removing heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body.
4. It may help to prevent cancer
Right now, the number of people being diagnosed and dying from cancer is much higher than ever before. We must therefore put as much effort as we can towards cancer prevention. Matcha tea is one food linked with the reduction of breast, colon, rectal, bladder, and prostate cancer.
5. Enhances calm and reduces anxiety
Matcha tea is high in the amino acid L-Theanine which is potent in inducing a state of calmness and relaxation without any drowsiness. It also leads to the production of a chemical called GABA that helps to reduce anxiety. In this time of increased anxiety, we could all do with some matcha tea.
6. Boosts Memory and Concentration
Another effect of L-Theanine is the production of dopamine and serotonin. These two chemicals serve to enhance mood, improve memory, and promote better concentration – something that can benefit everyone!
7. Increases Energy Levels and Endurance
Matcha has been shown to boost energy levels, improve exercise endurance, and even help muscle recovery after exercise. The increased endurance from matcha tea can last up to 6 hours and because of the effects of L-Theanine.
8. Burns Calories and promotes weight loss
Drinking Matcha Green Tea has also been shown to increase metabolism and help the body burn fat about four times faster than average. Studies have shown that ingestion of catechins from tea leads to a reduction in body fat over time.
9. Improves cholesterol and reduces the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease
It has been shown that people who drink Matcha regularly have lower levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol while displaying higher levels of HDL (good) cholesterol. Men who drink Matcha Green Tea are about 11% less likely to develop heart disease than those who don’t drink Matcha.
10. Reduces the risk of diabetes
Matcha is linked with better blood sugar control and improved sensitivity to insulin. People who drink Matcha tea often have better blood sugar control.
So, undoubtedly, this is a tea that should be in every household and at every workplace. Fortunately, unlike a lot of other teas which require sugar, milk, or lemon to make them palatable to the average consumer, Matcha is absolutely nice to drink all by itself without having to add anything.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious cup of hot Matcha. And, by the way, Matcha can also be added to smoothies and even to baked items.
Lastly, keep in mind that there are various grades of Matcha tea. There is a culinary grade that is good for cooking but may not be so great for drinking as tea. The ceremonial grade however is smoother and excellent for your tea. Take note of this when getting your matcha.
I really want to encourage everyone to get matcha tea and begin having 1 to 2 cups a day. Especially since we all want to have strong immunities and adequate responses to cancer and all these inflammatory diseases like diabetes and high blood pressure, this is one tea everyone should drink.
If you’d like to buy matcha tea, fortunately, we still have some in stock. You can call us on +256 701 450450, or +256 761 000450.