Matcha is a kind of green tea served by choosing young tea leaves and crushing them into a shiny green powder. The powder is then combined with hot water. It is various from normal green tea, where the leaves are steeped in water, then discarded. Consuming brewed green tea is like boiling spinach, throwing away the spinach, and just consuming the water.
You will prepare some nutrients but you driving away from the good. With matcha, you are using the whole tea leaves.
Matcha leaves are grown over green tea bushes stored under shade. The shade raised the amount of chlorophyll present in the leaves, which make them bright green and full of nutrients. The leaves are chosen by hand and the stems are removed.
According to Cheadle, the leaves are traditionally crushed by granite stones into a good powder. It takes one hour to grind the leaves and this task is done in dark to save the nutrients. The finest match manufactured from Japan, where it has been grown for centuries and makes part of the old Japanese tea ceremony.
Matcha tea is the best weight loss drink that everyone wants. It is used in most Japanese tea ceremonies and is taken from the same plant as green tea. But match tea is 10X times more potent in helping weight loss than green tea because it is processed differently.
Let’s know how this vibrant green tea is special and how it helps weight loss.
Matcha Tea – History and Processing
Table of Contents
This powdered green tea was introduced in China during the time of the Tang Dynasty. But it was the Buddhist monks who got matcha tea to Japan. It helped them to do better meditation and as time passed, it got popular. Over the past 1000 years, matcha has got an integral region of the Japanese culture. It is used in the Chado ceremony, where 2 grades of matcha are used thick and thin.
In this ceremony, the host makes matcha tea utilizing the old method of whisking the tea with a bamboo whisk.
The processing of matches is what makes it more special. The best match tea quality plant is grown in the Uji part of Japan. The tea plants are covered with bamboo shades, allowing only 20% of sun rays to get the plants. This process helps to boost the chlorophyll levels of the leaves. Then, the leaf buds are taken, steamed, stone-ground, and dried to produce match tea.
How Matcha Tea Benefits Weight Loss
Low In Calories
Image SourceMatch tea consists of low calories -1gm consists of 3-calories. Therefore, even if you get more than 2g of the tea, you will not take more calories. As you know, less the fewer calories you take, the lesser chance of those calories not get used up and being store as fat.
Rich In Antioxidants
Matcha tea is taken from a similar plant as Camellia Sinensis, green tea. And, like green tea, matcha tea also consists of rich and proactive antioxidants like Epigallocatechin Gallate – EGCG. Scientists at the University-of-Colorado discovered that the EGCG consists of matcha 137 times more than Chinese green tea. It happens because when you consume the tea, your intake the whole leaves, unlike most teas where you remove the leaves after steeping them in warm water for some minutes. The antioxidant helps to remove toxins, promote immunity, and lower inflammation, which helps to stop weight gain and manage weight loss.
Boosts Metabolism
Image SourceIf you are trying for weight loss, you should concentrate on your metabolic rate. If you have a low metabolic rate, you will not be able to reduce fat, no matter how less you consume. Matcha green tea has been discovered to promote or speed up slacking metabolism.
The catechins found in the tea helps to boost metabolic rate during and after a workout.
Burns Fat
Image SourceFat burning is the biochemical process of breaking down large fat molecules into fewer triglycerides and these triglycerides and must be used up or excreted. Matcha tea consists of rich catechins that boost thermogenesis in the body from 8-10% to 35-45%. Moreover, consuming this tea can boost workout endurance and promote burn and mobilization fat.
Balances Blood Glucose
Image SourceA constant spike in blood glucose or blood sugar can put at the risk of diabetes and insulin resistance. Matcha tea benefits to lower and control blood sugar levels as it consists of a good number of dietary fiber, which keeps you full for the long term and prevents you from overeating. And when you do not overeat, your glucose levels will not rise. This, in turn, will also stop you from the risk of type 2 diabetes.
Lowers Stress
Image SourceStress induces cortisol secretion, the stress hormone. When the cortisol level is continually high, your body goes into an inflammation state. You will feel tired, fatigued, restless all same time. And the worst side effect of getting stress is weight gain, especially in the belly region. Matcha tea consists of antioxidants that help to reduce the harmful oxygen radicals, reduce inflammation, and prevent weight gain.
Provides Energy
Image SourceMatcha tea also helps to promote energy levels, make you more proactive, and increase alertness. The more active you feel, the more you will stay active. It will prevent feelings of laziness, promote stamina, weight loss, and endurance levels.
Reduces Cholesterol
Image SourceMatcha tea provides rich EGCG, an antioxidant that is present in most teas. Scientists discovered that EGCG helped to lower bad cholesterol levels in laboratory rats when they were fed high more cholesterol food for 30 days. The underlying mechanism may be due to EGCG limit bad cholesterol absorption.
Ease Detoxification
Image SourceUnhealthy eating habits can cause toxin build-up in the body. Increased toxins can be the reason for weight gain. Therefore, you need to detoxify the body every day. Drinking match tea is the best way to get more antioxidants that help to flush out the harmful free oxygen radicals. Detoxification with matcha tea will boost weight loss, improve digestion, prevent constipation, boost overall health, and build immunity.
Boosts Brain Function
Image SourceSome research tells that many components of matcha could help to promote brain function. One study in 23 people observed how people do a series of tasks designed to measure brain function.
Some participants have eaten either matcha tea or a bar consisting of 4gm of the match, while the control group ate a placebo tea or bar. The researchers discovered that match caused improvements in reactions and attention time and memory in contrast to the placebo.
Another small study indicated that consuming 2gm of green tea powder every day for 2-months helped to enhance brain function in an older person (Source).
Additionally, matcha consists of a more concentrated quantity of caffeine than green tea, packing in 35mg of caffeine per half teaspoon around one gram of matcha powder.
Multiple researches have linked caffeine intake to enhance brain function, increased attention, improved memory, faster reaction times(Source).
Its content is called the L-theanine compound, which changes caffeine effects, helps to skip crash energy levels, promotes alertness that can follow caffeine consumption(Source).
Prevent Cancer
Image SourceMacha provides health-boosting compounds, including some that have been linked with cancer prevention in animal and test-tube studies.
In one study, green tea extract decreased tumor size and reduced the growth of breast cancer cells in rats(Source).
Match particularly consists of epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG), which is a type of catechin that has been shown to provide powerful anti-cancer properties.
Promote Heart Health
Image SourceHeart disease is the principal cause of death extensive around one-third of all deaths in people over the age of 35(Source).
Some researchers have proved that using green tea, which has the same nutrient content as matcha, may help to save from heart disease. Green tea has been indicated to lower levels of bad cholesterol, as well as triglycerides(Source).
It may also help to save the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, which another factor that may help against heart ailment(Source).
Observational research has also shown that consuming green tea is linked with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. When combined with a healthy lifestyle and well-rounded diet. This tea helps to keep the heart healthy and prevent heart health.
Promotes Relaxation
Image SourceEveryone needs some relaxation, but it is difficult to unwind when your brain is in overdrive. If you need help in this department, include matcha to diet.
Matcha is a good source of L-theanine, which is an amino acid that may lower stress and anxiety levels, and boost relaxation. A safe everyday dose of L-theanine for adults is 200-400 mg once or two times a day. There is 14.26 mg of L-theanine is one gm of matcha.
Mood Booster
Image SourceL-theanine does not only help to promote calmness feeling and relaxation. It also boosts dopamine production and serotonin in some situations, which are good feeling brain hormones. It may lead to a good mood and let you enjoy cognitive benefits such as concentration and improved memory.
Oxygenate the Body
Image SourceThe body has its natural detoxification system to eliminate toxins from the body and the liver is the first of defence in this process. It changes toxic substances into harmless substances so they can get released into the bloodstream and then removed from the body from urination. The liver requires oxygen for proper function and compared with other types of tea leaves, matcha consist a higher level of the antioxidant chlorophyll, which helps to carry extra oxygen to organs and tissues.
Protect the liver
Image SourceThe liver is an important organ for health and performs important functions for removing toxins and metabolizing nutrients. According to some research, matcha tea may help to save the health of the liver.
One research about diabetic rats experimented with 16 weeks of matcha and discovered that it helped to prevent the damage of liver and kidney(Source). Another study provides 80 individuals with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease either a placebo or 500 mg of green tea extract every day for 90 days. After 12 weeks, green tea extract help to lower liver enzyme levels. Raised levels of these enzymes are a sign of liver damage(Source).
Moreover, an analysis of 15 studies discovered that consuming green tea was linked with a low risk of a liver problem(Source).
However, it is necessary to remember that there may be other things involved in this link. More research is required to look at the effects of matcha on the common population since most research is less on studies analysing the green tea extra effects in animals.
Matcha Tea Is Easy To Make
Image SourceTaking benefit of the different health benefits of matcha is easy and the tastes good. You can make old matcha tea by sifting 1-2 teaspoons that are 2-4 gm of matcha powder into your cup, including two ounces of warm water, and mixing it both with a bamboo whisk. You can also try adjusting the ratio of matcha powder with water-based on your liked consistency.
For thinner consistency tea, lower the powder to half teaspoon that is one gm, and mix with 3-4 ounces of warm water. If you choose more concentrated tea than mix 2 teaspoons of powder with one ounce of water.
If you are creative, then try whipping matcha lattes, protein smoothies, or pudding to promote the nutrient content of your favorite recipe.
Make sure to consume tea in moderation. Although matcha tea provides more health benefits, it causes many side effects if taken more.
How to Make Matcha Tea at Home
Making matcha tea is very simple and the same as green tea. Here are some steps to follow.
What You Need
- Chawan – traditional Japanese Matcha tea bowl
- Chashaku – spoon or Bamboo scoop
- Chasen – Bamboo whisk
- Sifter
Ingredients
- Half teaspoon Matcha green tea powder
- 2-3 measures of water at 185o F
How to Prepare Matcha Tea?
- Sift 1/2 or 2-teaspoon bamboo scoops of match green tea powder and include it in the tea bowl.
- Delicately pour the warm water.
- Take the bamboo whisk to blend the matcha with a W motion. Do this till a layer of froth has done.
- Slow down the whisking and lower lift the whisk from the middle and it is ready.
Now that was easy. Making matcha tea can be relaxing and fun. But how many cups you should consume for weight loss?
Matcha: How Many Cups Should You Drink?
It is safe to consume 3-5 cups of matcha green tea every day for weight loss. Since one cup of matcha consist of 70g of caffeine that is one cup of coffee consist of 100g caffeine, it is recommended you not to overdrink it as you may feel an unpleasant spike in energy levels and prevent symptoms. Not let’s find out which brand of matcha tea is good for weight loss.
Which Are the Best Matcha Tea Brands?
There are a lot of brands of matcha tea, but only some are organic and high quality.
Muyum Japanese Matcha
Image SourceThe Muyum Green Tea is 100% natural and fresh without an additional component. It is originally sourced from Kyoto and Shizuoka-Prefecture of Japan. Carefully it is picked for the best quality leaves and stone ground to create vibrant green good quality match powder.
This tea provides full energy throughout the day. It improves your focus and promotes metabolism due to the EGCG compound. Helps with rich antioxidants and weight loss.
Benefits
- Natural Energy
- Calms Brain
- Weight Loss
- Enhance Memory
- Body Detoxifier
- Concentration
- Immunity Booster
- Glow Skin
- High in Antioxidants
Ito En Matcha Green Tea, Sweet Powder
ITOEN is a delicious and refreshing tea. It provides good antioxidants.
Matcha Tea Vs. Green Tea
Image SourceMatcha Tea Vs. Green Tea
Different tea varieties will make you think which one is good for weight loss. Matcha tea provides 10 times extra antioxidants than green tea. Additionally, it tastes great. This tea will give you quick results of weight loss.
Where to Purchase Organic-Matcha-Tea
You can purchase matcha tea online or take it from a shop that sells good quality match tea.
How to Store Matcha Tea?
Image SourceHere are some steps to follow to store the matcha tea and prevent it from oxidizing:
Clean an airtight container with soap water to stop contamination.
Let it dry in the sun.
Take out some matcha tea powder and put it to an airtight container.
Put it in a dark and cool place in your refrigerator.
If you have not opened the match tea pack, keep it in the fridge.
Weight Loss Tips
Image SourceWatch out for what you eat and skip processed and junk foods.
Eat five different vegetables every day.
Eat three types of fruits every day.
Drink at least 3-liters of water every day.
Try to control your food portions, even with fruits and veggies.
Include protein in each meal.
Eat full-fat milk.
Include healthy fats in your diet.
Perform mix HIIT, cardio, and strength training.
Costume a protein drink if you not having enough protein from complete foods.
Get 7-8 hours of sleep every night.
Skip late-night snacking.
Enjoy your cheat meal every week if you earned it.
Walk and try during bicycle.
Try to avoid stress and do meditation and yoga.
Who Should Not Take Drinking Matcha Tea?
Pregnant females and children should avoid match tea intake. Also, always talk to your doctor before consuming matcha tea for weight loss. Your physician will give you an expert opinion depending on medical conditions, age, medical history, weight, and present medications. Now you understand all matcha tea for weight loss.
Side Effects
Upset stomach
Image SourceIf you are feeling heartburn after consuming coffee first in the morning, you are close to the tannins effects. You may link tannins with wine, but coffee and tea contain rich in this synthesis also, and they serve the same purpose.
The predominant tannin present in matcha green tea is called EGCG, one of the good teas catechins. Additionally, antioxidant’s presence helps to neutralize free radicals, and polyphenols provide an astringent and dry taste.
However, when tannins reach an empty stomach, they can raise the acidic environment, leading to a sour stomach, vomiting, and nausea.
To skip this, it is best to consume matcha tea after a meal or with a snack.
Anemia
Image SourceCatechins present in matcha powder and green tea can bind with iron and prevent absorption. Consuming more tea for a long time can cause iron-deficiency anemia. Studies differ on the upper limit, but it is safe to consider anything above 8 cups every day more.
Iron is an important synthesis of red blood cells, which transfer oxygen in whole the body. When iron levels run low, you may feel fatigued, pale skin, general weakness, and raised heart rate.
Usually, using green tea is not a risk for anemia if taken in balance, and if you are getting sufficient iron from your diet.
Diarrhea
Image Source
Generally, matcha tea is good for metabolism and reduces fat absorption, which are the two mechanisms that support healthy weight loss and benefit cardiovascular health. But impaired fat absorption can cause discomforting consequences. If fat is not being broken down used or stored by cells of the body, the body has to remove it in another way.
Unabsorbed fat ends up passing from the digestive system and becomes fused in the stool. Fatty stools do not bind up much and result in diarrhea.
It can also be reduced by caffeine present in matcha, which can make it indigestible food pass from the system faster. If you get this problem, then reduce matcha habit and don’t take more than 2 cups per day.
If you wish to drink more than 8-cups of green tea every day, make sure to take your doctor’s advice for iron level.
Insomnia
Image SourceThe caffeine content of matcha ranges from 70-140 mg of caffeine not less than one cup of coffee, which can consist of 95 to 200 mg. Drinking too much matcha or drinking it more close to bedtime can make it extra difficult to sleep or get restful sleep. Gradually its affects overall health. Sleep is more important for a healthy diet and exercise plan.
Exposure to toxic components
This side effect occurs from the environment that the Camellia Sinesis tea plant is grown. Lead, fluoride, and arsenic have all been discovered in the soil where some of these tea plants grow and these chemicals also get into the green tea leaves. With regular brewed green tea, they have low threat because only a very small amount infuses into the hot water. But using the entire leaf to make matcha means eating high levels of potentially harmful substances.
Especially if you taking matcha tea every day, you will want to ensure to choose organic matcha that is also checked for heavy metals and toxins.