Matcha is a form of green tea made from skillfully cultivated, shade-grown tea leaves that have been meticulously stone-ground into a fine powder. It is concentrated in antioxidants. It also speeds up the metabolism, aiding in weight loss. Morning is the best time to enjoy matcha as it is super energizing and promotes memory and focus.

Matcha green tea promotes memory and focus for two reasons: Caffeine and L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid that improves mental performance while also decreasing anxiety and stress.

Because green tea contains L-theanine, the rate of caffeine release is slower instead of all at once. This results in less of a “caffeine crash.” L-theanine in green tea also reduces the negative side effects associated with the caffeine in coffee, such as increase in blood pressure, anxiety, and poor sleep quality.

Matcha Green Tea Smoothie

Ingredients

• 1 cup unsweetened almond or coconut milk
• 2 tsps matcha green tea (I use this one)
• 1 big handful kale, de-stemmed
• 1/2 cup frozen mango
• 1/2 banana
• 1-2 scoops protein powder
• 2 tsps chia seeds

Instructions

Combine all ingredients in a blender. Blend until smooth. Enjoy!

 

For another twist on matcha, these matcha truffles are delicious (and easy!).

Editor’s Note: The information in this article is intended for your educational use only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health practitioners with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition and before undertaking any diet, supplement, fitness, or other health program.