About two years ago, I stopped drinking coffee. I found that espresso and cups of coffee made me too hyped up and I would end up shaking and not sleeping soundly. So, I made the transition to tea.
I find that tea still wakes me up, but it does not have the super jolt effect that coffee would have on me. Since becoming an avid tea drinker, I have learned about the different types of teas and their health benefits.
Recently, I spoke with Brock Shillington, the co-owner of Let's Matcha. Brock shared more of the health benefits of matcha tea, how to prepare it and who can drink it.
What are the health benefits of matcha tea?
As far as its health benefits go, matcha is a powerful antioxidant. It's being used as a pre-workout supplement to increase energy and focus in the gym. Studies have also shown drinking matcha before a workout increases fat loss. So, it's a win-win. And, of course, it won't stain your teeth or give you bad breath.
Matcha's vibrant green comes from high amounts of chlorophyll. This aids the body's natural cleansing and circulation processes. So, if you're looking for an anti-ager and detoxifier, matcha is a natural choice that's been common knowledge in Japan for generations.
Is there only one kind of matcha tea, or are there different flavours?
There are many factors that attribute to the flavour of matcha, but there is only one flavour. The flavours derive from different levels of quality, altitude, cultivation tactics and soil conditions.
While there's only one real flavour, many companies have infused matcha with spices and sweeteners to create a variety of tasty combinations. I've seen vanilla, chili and coconut-infused matcha.
How do you prepare matcha tea?
- Start by sifting one to two teaspoons of matcha into a short cup or bowl using the smallest sift or strainer you can find.
- Add 2.5 ounces of hot water. Try to use the water that's almost at boil. There are no rules, but this is our preferred method.
- Whisk vigorously in a zig-zag motion until the tea is frothy. Alternately, put it in a mason jar, secure the lid and shake until it froths up.
How much caffeine is there in matcha tea? If you are sensitive to caffeine, will you feel it?
That's a great question. I urge anyone that is a daily coffee drinker to give matcha a go. If you've been drinking coffee for years, you'll experience a huge shift in your ability to focus, among other health benefits.
I'll always love coffee, but it doesn't always love me back. The spikes and crashes of the coffee caffeine high can cause untimely jitters and drops in focus throughout the day.
There's no need to give up coffee entirely, but if you're bothered at all by coffee's jitters, spikes and crashes, then matcha will be more up your alley. It contains about half the amount of caffeine, and it is released more slowly into your body to provide a calmer, more alert caffeine buzz for several hours.
Who can drink matcha tea?
Everyone! Whether it be samurai warriors drinking tea before battle or musicians drinking matcha before hours of practice -- it happens all over the world, and it's been happening for a very long time.
Any other tips?
Take it anywhere! Over the summer, we camped with it in the Rockies and even made matcha at music festivals.
Your suggestions are always welcome as I continue on my journey to enjoy life to the fullest. Let's have the very best 2015!
Visit Sacha daily at SachaD.com
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