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Move over coffee for a new green concoction popular in the wellness world. Meet matcha green tea. A bright green brew with a unique flavour and long history of health benefits enjoyed in Japanese and Chinese cultures for centuries. From promoting weight loss and boosting brain function to reducing inflammation and promoting healthy skin. This superfood tea is a must-try for anyone looking to improve their overall health and well-being during the menopause transition.
It’s no wonder, Japanese matcha is increasingly popular. Being high antioxidants and catechins makes it a nutritive drink for women entering menopause. Here are a few ways Japanese matcha can help your health and menopause wellness journey and why you should make it a daily routine.
11 health benefits of matcha green tea
- Rich in antioxidants: Both green tea and matcha green tea are rich with natural antioxidants. The antioxidant content is much higher in matcha. This includes catechins which are powerful free radical scavengers that help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.
- Boosts metabolism: The catechins in matcha green tea can help to boost metabolism and promote weight loss. EGCG is a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements because it can help increase fat burning.
- May improve brain function: The neuroprotective and antioxidant effects in matcha may suppress brain aging. And thus may help improve memory and cognitive health as you age.
- May lower the risk of heart disease: Another potent antioxidant compound (rutin) in green tea helps to strengthen blood vessels. This may help protect the cardiovascular system and help prevent heart disease.
- May lower the risk of certain cancers: Studies show that the high antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential in green tea may help to inhibit cancer cell growth in certain types of cancers.
- Reduces inflammation: The polyphenols in green tea are abundant in matcha. Green tea has four types of catechins, the most active being EGCG can help reduce inflammation in the body.
- Promotes healthy skin: Green tea antioxidant compounds, including Vitamin C, can help to protect the skin from damage caused by UV radiation and may help to reduce the signs of aging. As an essential nutrient, Vitamin C helps the production of collagen, which is vital for the growth and repair of tissues such as skin, cartilage, and blood vessels.
- Aids detoxification: The high content of catechins in green tea can help boost the activity of enzymes that help the body get rid of toxins.
- May improve insulin sensitivity: The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of quercetin in green tea are shown to improve insulin sensitivity by regulating insulin secretion.
- Helps to relieve stress: L-theanine in green tea can help to promote relaxation and reduce stress levels; that means less stress and better sleep. Though the caffeine in matcha is higher than in other green teas. The body absorbs the caffeine more slowly and steadily than caffeine from other sources; because of the amino acid theanine found in the leaves.
- May help immune defence: Matcha green tea contains more vitamin C than other green teas. As you know, vitamin C is vital for a healthy immune system to help the body fight infections.
The difference between Japanese and Chinese matcha
The notable difference is the colour. Japanese matcha is a vibrant emerald green colour. Whereas Chinese matcha has a slightly duller green colour. China was the first to process green tea leaves. Later, the Japanese elevated matcha to an integral part of their traditional tea ceremonies by refining its process and consumption. Nowadays, Japan produces and exports high-quality matcha as its primary producer.
In addition, the differences in soil and cultivation techniques contribute to the distinct flavour, colour, and texture. Japanese tea farmers shade the tea leaves from the sun—towards the end of harvesting—to produce Japanese matcha. This produces a higher-quality powder and enhances the tea’s chlorophyll and amino acid content. The processor removes the stems and veins before processing the tea leaves. Then using a stone-grinder the young leaves are ground into a fine powder. This strict processing result in a high theanine content that gives the matcha a unique taste—a sweet, umami flavour profile.
In contrast, Chinese green tea trees grows fully in the sun. And the stems, branches and whole leaves are ground into a powder. The tea processor pan-fry, roll and ground the sun-grown tea leaves into matcha-style powder. This process can result in a slightly different flavour profile than Japanese matcha, with a more pungent, bitter taste.
What you should know when choosing matcha
Not all green tea powder is matcha. While China produces various types of green teas, they are not considered matcha. That said, Chinese green tea producers grind some teas into a powder that are similar to matcha-style teas. However, people do not commonly refer to them as true matcha since they do not meet the requirements.
Alternatively, some popular Japanese matcha varieties, Gyokuro and Tencha, are high-grade green teas. Tea farmers sun-deprive these high-quality tea leaves for approximately 3-4 weeks before harvesting. This enhances their flavour and increases the concentration of theanine, caffeine, chlorophyll and various catechins. Ceremonial grade are these high-grade green tea leaves.
What is ceremonial grade matcha?
Today, ceremonial grade matcha is the highest quality of matcha tea available. The term “ceremonial grade” refers to the traditional Japanese tea ceremonies, where the matcha is served with great care and respect.
Matcha comes from the young tender leaves of the tea plant. Japanese ceremonial grade matcha is a bright green colour, smooth texture, with a sweet, delicate flavour. It is also considered to have the highest concentration of health-promoting compounds, such as antioxidants and amino acids.
While ceremonial grade matcha may be more expensive than other grades, its superior quality and taste make it a worthwhile investment for tea lovers. So if you want to experience the full health benefits of this delicious and healthful beverage, the ceremonial grade is a must.
Best way to prepare and drink matcha green tea
When preparing matcha, it is best to whisk the powder—with a bamboo (Chasen) whisk—while pouring hot water, not boiling. Prepare it without milk. Adding milk to matcha powder can interfere with the absorption of the tea’s nutrients and antioxidants, reducing its health-promoting benefits.
However, you may not like it to start, especially if you are used to drinking matcha latte. But think of the health benefits and the taste soon pale into the background. Drinking matcha without milk helps you to fully experience its unique flavour and aroma. This can range from sweet and grassy to earthy and slightly bitter. But as always, speak to your doctor first if you are on any medication or have a health condition, before trying anything new. And be careful how much cups you drink in a day, if you are overly sensitive to caffeine.
Pause for thought
As you’re well aware, as your body undergo significant change, along with it come health challenges. And as Japanese matcha green tea is packed with antioxidants, amino acids and other beneficial compounds, make it your daily cuppa during menopause. Sipping on a warm cup of pure matcha tea can be a soothing and meditative experience. It will helping you to relax and savour the quiet moments.
To get the most out of your matcha tea, indulge in ceremonial-grade matcha that comes directly from tea importers in Japan. Skip the milk and enjoy it as nature intended. So, what are you waiting for? Grab a cup of Japanese matcha and join the green tea revolution.
