The list is long when it comes to the upsides of green tea, yet there has been less research performed specifically on matcha. Many of the active nutrients in matcha such as polyphenols, caffeine, and amino acids, however, have been noted for a wide range of beneficial health properties.
1. It May Improve Cardiovascular Health
Micronutrients are abundant in matcha, especially one known as epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a plant compound that can have positive health effects. Research gathered on EGCG and its impact on cardiovascular and metabolic health shows it can “exhibit a wide range of therapeutic properties including anti-atherosclerosis, anti-cardiac hypertrophy, anti-myocardial infarction, anti-diabetes, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant,” according to a study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology[1]. Matcha helps support the healthy functioning of the cardiovascular system—preventing plaque build-up, thickening of heart tissue, as well as other conditions such as heart attacks.
2. It's Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants remove bad molecules from the body, and decrease oxidative stress. Matcha, and green teas in general, are high in substances that act as antioxidants, including catechins. “Tea also contains flavonoids, compounds reported to have antioxidant properties having many beneficial effects,” points out a study in Food Research International[2]. “Tea flavonoids reduce inflammation, have antimicrobial effects and prevent tooth decay.”
3. It May Have Cancer Fighting Effects
Many of the beneficial components of matcha have been researched for their anti-cancer properties. There are extensive cohort studies which examine consumption of green tea and inverse effects of gastric cancers. One such study in Cancer Causes & Control consisting of over 1,400 individuals, found consumption of green tea was associated with lower risk of stomach cancer[3].
Catechins and gallic acid, phytochemicals in matcha, have been used in conjunction with chemotherapy treatments, and have been researched to see if they improve efficacy of certain chemotherapy drugs.
4. It May Spur Weight Loss
The National Institute for Health states that green tea “increases energy expenditure and fat oxidation, reduces lipogenesis and fat absorption,” and has a “possible modest effect on body weight.”
One clinical trial in Obesity followed 76 overweight individuals for four months, determining that daily consumption of a green tea beverage aids in weight loss[4].
5. It May Give You Healthy Glowing Skin
Matcha powder and green teas are not only good for internal conditions but can be used to improve skin health as well. “Green tea constituents may be useful topically for promoting skin regeneration, wound healing or treatment of certain epithelial conditions such as aphthous ulcers, psoriasis, rosacea and actinic keratosis,” notes the Food Research International study[5].
And Colleen Tyler, a naturopathic physician and avid tea drinker says “compounds such as caffeine and EGCG make matcha the perfect addition to your skincare routine and can be used as a simple face mask to help subdue redness and give your skin a healthy glow.”
Is Matcha Tea Right for You?
Matcha offers all the health benefits of green tea, and in even more concentration since you’re ingesting the whole leaf. It can help provide the boost you need to feel energized and inspired throughout the day.
Source: Excerpts from 5 Science-Backed Health Benefits of Matcha Tea, ForbesHealth.com. Full article: https://www.forbes.com/health/body/matcha-tea-health-benefits/. Written by Lenore Cangeloso, Contributor. Medically Reviewed by Janese Laster, M.D. Gastroenterology / Nutrition / Obesity Medicine / Bariatric Endoscopist