Matcha tea: weight loss?
How can matcha green tea possibly help you with weight loss? Let's dive into the composition of Matcha and explore its potential effects.
It must be said that although Matcha tea has various potential ways that it can contribute to weight loss, it is not a magic solution or a panacea. It is not a quick fix, but together with healthy diet and exercise, it can be a great helper in achieving your desired weight loss.
Matcha tea and the magic trio: Caffeine, L-theanine and Catechins
Matcha tea differs from traditional tea due to its cultivation method and processing. When Matcha is grown, the tea leaves are grown in the shade, after which they are ground into a fine powder. This means that all nutrients are preserved and it increases the concentration of active ingredients compared to ordinary green tea. Among the most powerful ingredients in Matcha are: caffeine, L-theanine and catechins. These ingredients form the core of Matcha's potential to promote weight loss in a healthy and natural way.
Caffeine - The Engine of the Metabolism
Caffeine is a well-known ingredient found in Matcha tea. In addition to helping to keep you awake, caffeine also has a direct impact on your metabolism. By stimulating the nervous system, the burning of calories and fat in the body increases. This can potentially contribute to a more effective weight loss process, as the increased metabolism results in a greater energy turnover - even at rest.
L-theanine - Stress management and Appetite control
L-theanine, an amino acid, works in Matcha tea as a counterbalance to caffeine. It has a calming effect on the brain that can help reduce stress levels and increase the production of dopamine, improving mood and feelings of contentment. This can have an indirect effect on weight loss by controlling appetite and reducing cravings for unhealthy foods.
Catechins - Antioxidants and "Thermogenesis"
Catechins, a group of antioxidants, are abundant in Matcha tea. In addition to their protective role against harmful molecules in the body, they have also been shown to increase "thermogenesis", which is a process in which the body produces heat and burns calories. This can potentially support weight loss by increasing calorie burn.
This is how you get started
If you would like to start incorporating Matcha into your daily routine, you can do it in different ways. You can e.g. try replacing your morning coffee with a Matcha latte .
Matcha Morning Kick: Replace your regular morning coffee
Starting the day with Matcha tea can be a great way to give your morning a healthy twist. Instead of your usual cup of coffee, consider preparing a Matcha latte . By mixing about 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with warm water and whisking it thoroughly, you create a frothy green tea that you can either drink as is or mix with skim milk. It not only tastes good, but gives you a long-lasting energy boost.
The boost is mainly due to the combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-theanine, which work in harmony to increase your energy without leaving you with the unpleasant caffeine crash later in the day. This can help reduce cravings for sugary snacks and keep you fuller for longer.
Matcha snack time: Tame the urge to go crazy for sweets
When we hit the afternoon and the urge for an unhealthy snack starts to creep in, a cup of Matcha tea can be your best friend. Try preparing a cup of Matcha when the afternoon fatigue sets in. Instead of reaching for a chocolate bar or a piece of cake, a cup of Matcha might save you. The L-theanine in Matcha, in particular, can help reduce stress levels and create a sense of calm and contentment. This can help curb unhealthy snack cravings and help you make healthier choices.
Matcha Pre-Workout: Boost your workout efficiency
If you are a fitness enthusiast, Matcha tea can be an ideal pre-workout drink. The natural caffeine content and catechins in Matcha tea can give you an extra energy boost that can help improve your performance during training. By drinking a cup of Matcha tea before training, you can potentially increase your endurance, intensity and calorie burn. This can help make your exercise sessions even more effective and support your weight loss journey.
If you have the courage to try to integrate Matcha into your daily life, you can buy our Matcha set that contains everything you need to get started. Alternatively, you can start with our beginner Matcha set to test whether Matcha is for you.
