Matcha is a type of green tea that is popular due to its numerous health benefits. It is derived from the same plant as regular green tea but is grown and processed differently, producing a fine green powder. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and other nutrients that can help improve your overall health.
In this article, we’ll look at some of the many health benefits of matcha that have been scientifically proven.
1. Protection against certain types of cancers
According to studies, matcha contains the four major types of catechins, powerful antioxidants that fight free radicals and protect cells from damage. Among the four types, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) is widely studied for its anti-cancer and anti-tumor effects. Because matcha is high in EGCG, it is an excellent supplement for lowering the risk of colorectal cancer, obesity-related cancers, and biliary duct cancer.
2. Keeps kidney and liver healthy
Studies also show drinking matcha green tea is good for your liver and kidney. Since the liver and kidney are responsible for ridding the body of toxins, this is especially important for people with diabetes, fatty livers, or unhealthful lifestyles. According to research, matcha’s powerful antioxidants lower the glucose, triglyceride, and total cholesterol levels in the liver. Another study also showed how green teas like matcha has benefits in the treatment of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Therefore, matcha may prevent liver and kidney damage.
3. Improves brain function
Studies also show how drinking matcha improves brain function and mood. This is due to the l-theanine, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), and caffeine components of matcha, which affects mood and cognitive performance. The study proved that those who took 4 grams of matcha tea powder has better attention, information processing, working memory, and episodic memory than those who didn’t. It also resulted in better mood states.
4. Protection from cardiovascular diseases
Matcha’s catechins have significant health benefits for your heart. Catechins have can reduce your risk for ischemic heart disease mortality risk by 20%. Furthermore, Harvard Health also cited a Japanese study that found green tea may reduce your risk of death from heart disease and stroke by 26% and your risk of death from all causes by 16%.
5. Lowers cholesterol and blood pressure
Matcha catechins are also beneficial in lowering cholesterol and blood pressure. According to research, catechins can help lower your LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels, which are risk factors for stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases. Drinking matcha could also result in reductions in systolic blood pressure by inhibiting the Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), which is a major cause of hypertension.
These are just a few of the numerous health benefits of drinking matcha green tea daily. Continue to keep your body healthy by taking vitamins and minerals that boost your immunity, exercising regularly, and eating fat-burning foods.
