As hard-working students, we’re always looking for that next fix of energy to get us through those longs days of classes and hours spent in the library. If you’re looking for an alternative to coffee, let me introduce you to the wonders of matcha tea.
First, lets look at how to make a cup of this glorious liquid. Matcha comes in the form of a bright green powder (yes, it’s naturally green). It can be bought at any local health food stores and David’s Tea also sells it!
First step: mix roughly a teaspoon of powder with hot water.
Second Step: stir it well until the powder is dissolved.
Third step: Add your choice of milk, or alternatives to milk such as almond or rice milk, etc. in order to create a delicious and substantial drink. My personal favourite is almond milk with a dash of honey, which creates a matcha tea latte.
It is that simple to create this delicious drink!
Now, if you’re wondering why one would want to consume this strange looking green substance, let’s look at some of the health benefits.
1. Increase in Energy
This drink serves as a great alternative to coffee because it gives you a buzz of energy without making you jittery (we all know what if feels like to have one too many cups of coffee). All green tea has natural caffeine, but along with the other nutrients in matcha it creates a clean energy.
2. High in Antioxidants
Matcha tea is loaded with antioxidants and contains more antioxidants than any other health food. You may be wondering what exactly antioxidents do. They literally prevent oxidation, which helps lessen the effects of aging and also helps to prevent chronic disease. Fun fact: one cup of matcha contains as many antioxidants as ten cups of regular green tea.
3. Feeling of Calmness
Buddhist monks use Matcha during meditation (enough said!). The amino acid L-Theanine is contained in the leaves of matcha, which produces feelings of relaxation in the brain (don’t worry matcha won’t make you drowsy, it will make you feel calm but alert).
4. Contains Catechins
Matcha actually contains a unique form of catechin called EGCg, which is a potent antioxidant. It counteracts any harmful chemicals that can lead to DNA damage, as well as the effects of pollution and UV ray skin damage. Not to mention it helps prevent cancer.
5. Contains Chlorophyll
This gives the matcha its distinctive green colouring. It helps the body to detox itself of chemicals and heavy metals.
If the benefits of drinking matcha aren’t enough to entice you, try it and see if you enjoy it just for the taste! It’s earthy, delicious and trust me, it will help you start your day off feeling well and balanced.
Information obtained from:
http://matchasource.com/health-benefits-of-matcha-tea/
http://www.naturallivingideas.com/10-amazing-benefits-of-matcha-green-tea/
Images Obtained from:
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