Better Balance + Flow

While coffee is often the go-to drink for a pick me up in the morning or for a quick energy boost during an afternoon slump, matcha could be a great alternative and here’s why.

What Exactly is Matcha?

Matcha is the brilliant bright green drink that you can see in all the best instagrammable spots around town, but what exactly is it and what makes it different from regular green tea?

Originally hailing from China and subsequently brought to Japan by monks after they realised its ability to help them concentrate during their meditations, matcha has been an important component of Japanese tea culture for more than 800 years. Matcha is essentially a powdered version of green tea, but there’s a little more to it: grown in the shade to increase chlorophyll levels and made with the youngest tea leaves, matcha provides a higher concentration of nutrients which packs a punch, with both a high level of antioxidants and vitamins, as well as higher levels of caffeine.

Why Should We Give Up Coffee For Matcha?

Ok, so we’ve established that matcha is a great pick me up, but why should you ditch coffee in favour of our green friend? Here’s the thing, matcha contains a high level of caffeine, almost as much as coffee yet it has a secret ingredient – L-Theanine. Not only does L-Theanine reduce stress, but it’s an amino acid that helps your body to absorb caffeine more slowly, therefore avoiding the post-coffee crash. Instead you experience a more focused state of alertness. You’re not going to get the same buzz that you experience with coffee, rather it’s more likely to leave you feeling energised, focused and calm.

Benefits For Your Workout

If you’re still not convinced, then consider the benefits that all this can have on your workout. With increased energy levels and focus, you’ll be more likely to maintain your performance throughout your workout. Matcha also boosts your metabolism, making it easier to break down fats to use as energy, which is not only good for weight loss but can also increase endurance. 

6 Ways To Add More Matcha To Your Life

1. The traditional way to enjoy Matcha is through the Japanese tea ceremony, using a bamboo whisk to froth the water and powder together. Heat around 70ml of water to 176°F (80°C), add ½ -1 teaspoon of matcha powder and whisk with a bamboo whisk, or a spoon. Traditionalists will tell you to whisk in a zig-zag shape or back and forth, rather than in circles. Fill up the rest of your cup with either water or plant-based/regular milk. You can add a little bit of honey if you find the taste too bitter.
2. Stir 1-2 tsp of matcha into your morning granola, oatmeal or yoghurt, an easy way to give yourself a little boost in the morning
3. Give a bit of power to your green smoothie. Mix in a tsp of matcha powder to your regular green smoothie to up your game.
4. Matcha popcorn. Sprinkle a little powder on your popcorn for your next movie night.
5. Add it to your baked goods. Replace a little bit of flour with matcha to add to morning pancakes, or to liven up your muffins and cookies. 
6. Green tea ice cream. Mix 2 tsps of matcha into regular vanilla ice cream or frozen yoghurt to give your dessert a healthy edge