Matcha tea has many benefits backed by modern day science. During the growing process, the shading of the tea bushes is known to increase biologically active compounds. Health-promoting properties of matcha green tea include:
Increased cognitive functions
Increased memory
Increased neuroprotection
Increased strength of blood vessels
Increased apoptosis of cancer cells
Regulation of insulin secretion
Decreased gluconeogenesis
Decreased development of hepatitis
Decreased tumor growth factors and angiogenesis
Decreased stress
Decreased oxidative stress
Decreased aging process
Decreased glucose and lipids absorption
Decreased inflammation
Matcha also contains high levels of L-theanine, an amino acid found primarily in the green tea plant, which studies show to improve attention and focus while also reducing anxiety. As such, matcha offers a natural way to treat ADHD.
Next time you choose a beverage, consider matcha over coffee or black tea. Please see below for our Matcha Oatmeal recipe!
Quick Matcha Chia Oatmeal
Ingredients:
1 cup rolled oats
1-2 tsp matcha powder
2 tsp chia seeds
2-3 cups of almond milk, or milk of your choice
Optional:
2 tbsp of honey
Toasted nuts or fresh berries
Directions:
Bring 2.5 cups of milk to a boil over high heat.
Stir in the rolled oats and chia seeds and reduce heat to a low simmer.
Simmer oatmeal for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Add extra milk to adjust oatmeal consistency as needed.
Remove hot oatmeal from stove.
Sift the matcha powder into the pot with a tea strainer to eliminate clumps.
Stir until matcha is dissolved.
Add optional toppings and serve hot!
Enjoy the healthy breakfast or snack!
References:
Kochman, J., Jakubczyk, K., Antoniewicz, J., Mruk, H., & Janda, K. (2020). Health Benefits and Chemical Composition of Matcha Green Tea: A Review. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), 26(1), 85. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules26010085
White DJ, de Klerk S, Woods W, Gondalia S, Noonan C, Scholey AB. Anti-Stress, Behavioural and Magnetoencephalography Effects of an L-Theanine-Based Nutrient Drink: A Randomised, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Crossover Trial. Nutrients. 2016;8(1):53. Published 2016 Jan 19. doi:10.3390/nu8010053