Drinking matcha, a form of powdered green tea, on a daily basis may offer a range of health benefits. An article from AARP on April 18 highlighted some of the potential advantages of consuming matcha. Studies have shown that matcha could improve cognitive health in older women, promote healthy changes in the gut microbiome, reduce stress, and prevent atherosclerosis in animals. While there is some evidence to suggest that matcha might also slow premature aging and reduce the risk of certain cancers, more research is needed in these areas.
One reason why matcha is believed to have health benefits is because it contains a high concentration of polyphenols, which are antioxidants. Frank Hu, a nutrition and epidemiology expert at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, along with other professionals mentioned in the article, cautioned that matcha does contain caffeine, more than other types of tea but less than coffee. They also advised against consuming matcha with added sugars or processed ingredients.
To reap the potential health benefits of matcha, individuals may consider adding it to their daily routine. It is important to be mindful of the caffeine content and to avoid pairing matcha with sugary or processed additives. Overall, drinking matcha may provide a boost in cognitive health, gut health, and stress reduction, making it a beneficial addition to a healthy lifestyle. More research is needed to fully understand the impact of matcha on premature aging and cancer risk.