Matcha has risen to popularity in recent years for its health benefits and great taste. Not only does it contain high levels of antioxidants like EGCG, but it is a source of various B vitamins and vitamin C too.
Matcha has been enjoyed traditionally for thousands of years as part of Japanese tea ceremonies, as well as now being brought over into the Western world and enjoyed in things like Naturya’s Matcha Latte – which helps make matcha’s slightly bitter taste creamier and more enjoyable.
But how can our morning matcha latte actually support our health?
1. Matcha supports brain health and cognitive function.
Because matcha contains slow releasing caffeine, it can help boost productivity and focus. As a nutritionist I love having a matcha latte during busy work hours especially mid morning, to help me stay sharp. As well as this, matcha is currently being studied for its benefits to help with adults later in life, with one randomised control trial demonstrating that “regular consumption of matcha could improve emotional perception and sleep quality in older adults with mild cognitive decline.” The many benefits of matcha which support cognitive function may be down to its caffeine content as well as its L-Theanine.
2. Heart Health
Some studies show that drinking regular matcha may be linked to improved cardiovascular health markers. Compounds in green tea leaves (where matcha comes from) have shown to lower blood pressure, have anti-inflammatory properties and even may play a role in reducing bad cholesterol too when consumed regularly.
3. May support weight loss
There are many potential reasons why matcha may aid in weight loss, but the top reason is usually down to its caffeine content. As caffeine can act as an appetite suppressant, it can reduce hunger levels and boost alertness. This may make it easier for individuals to eat slightly less and see results in their weight loss. Matcha may also improve lipid and glucose metabolism, contributing to weight loss alongside a healthy diet and lifestyle.
There are many ways that you can enjoy matcha, including as a matcha latte which can be enjoyed hot or cold, adding it into baking such as matcha and white chocolate brownies, or even adding it into homemade protein balls. Matcha pancakes are also a great way to enjoy it- with our favourite recipe you can try out below.
Matcha Latte Pancakes:
Ingredients
- 100g self raising flour
- 100g Naturya Matcha Latte powder
- 120ml coconut milk
- ½ teaspoon baking powder
- 2 eggs
- 1 small banana
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 1 teaspoon coconut oil
Method:
- Blend all ingredients together
- Place a pan on a medium heat with some coconut oil
- Pour a spoonful of the pancake batter onto the pan and cook until bubbles start forming on the middle of the pancake, then flip over and cook on the other side until golden, then repeat.
- Serve with your choice of toppings, such as honey or extra banana