Marvellous Matcha
So what is all the hype about you ask? Well… This popular green powder just like green tea is from the Camellia sinensis plant however it is grown differently and has a unique nutrient profile (greater amount of caffeine and antioxidants than green tea). The way farmers grow matcha is by covering their tea plants 20–30 days before harvest to avoid direct sunlight. This results in increase chlorophyll production and boosts the amino acid content, as well as giving the plant a darker green hue. The stems and veins are then removed and ground up into marvellous matcha powder.
There are various studies illustrating the benefits of Matcha and its components, showing that it can help protect the liver, promote heart health, and even aid in weight loss.
May help prevent cancer
Matcha is jam-packed with health-promoting compounds, including some that have been linked to cancer prevention in test tube and animal studies. In one study, green tea extract decreased tumor size and slowed the growth of breast cancer cells in rats.
Boosts brain function
Matcha has been shown to improve attention, memory, and reaction time. It also contains caffeine and L-theanine, which can improve several aspects of brain function. Multiple studies have linked caffeine consumption to improvements in brain function, citing faster reaction times, increased attention, and enhanced memory. Matcha also contains a compound called L-theanine, which alters the effects of caffeine, promoting alertness and helping avoid the crash in energy levels that can follow caffeine consumption.
High in antioxidants
Matcha contains a concentrated amount of antioxidants, which may reduce cell damage and prevent chronic disease. One study showed including matcha in your diet could increase your antioxidant intake, which may help prevent cell damage and even lower your risk of several chronic diseases. Another study showed that giving mice matcha supplements reduced damage caused by free radicals and enhanced antioxidant activity
May promote heart health
When combined with a well-rounded diet and healthy lifestyle, drinking matcha may help keep your heart healthy and protect against disease. Studies show that green tea and matcha can decrease several heart disease risk factors.
Helps you lose weight
Some studies show that green tea extract helps increase metabolism and fat burning, both of which may aid weight loss. A review of 11 studies also showed that green tea reduced body weight and helped maintain weight loss.
Matcha tea is super easy to prepare
There are many ways to prepare matcha, so you can choose the one you like best. It can also be incorporated into a range of different recipes. It’s best to stick to 1–2 cups per day and look for certified organic varieties to take advantage of matcha’s many health benefits without risking any side effects.
No-Bake Matcha Cheesecake
I n g r e d i e n t s
Crust
1 cup (120g) hemp seeds
6–8 (120g) pitted medjool dates (soaked for 10 minutes)
1/4 cup (20g) cacao powder
Pinch of salt
Matcha Filling
1 cup (240g) non-dairy yogurt (I used almond milk yogurt)
1 1/2 cup (180) raw cashews (soak first for easier blending)
6–8 (120g) pitted medjool dates
1/2 cup (120g) non-dairy milk
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp vanilla extract
1 tbsp matcha powder
M e t h o d
Combine all the crust ingredients in a blender of food processor.
Blend on low speed until you have sticky chunks that hold together when pressed.
Press into the bottom of a 6-inch pan. Set aside.
Blend all the filing ingredients except the matcha on high until very smooth and creamy.
Remove 1/2 cup and set aside.
Add the matcha powder to the blender, and blend again.
Pour the matcha filling on top of the crust.
Dollop on the white filling and swirl with a chopstick or straw.
Freeze overnight (or at least 8 hours) and bring out for an hour before eating.
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