Matcha: the Antioxidant Rich Caffeine Alternative

I am a coffee lover.. it’s this essential warm and comforting ingredient in my quiet morning routine. Although I cherish this caffeinated moment as one of the few things I KNOW will go just as planned in my day, I began to ask myself, is consuming anything everyday good for you? So, I dug into this question for my “Coffee: Is it Good for You?” post, where based on my findings, I decided it would be healthy to have an alternative to coffee in my arsenal… CUE MATCHA: the Antioxidant Rich Caffeine Alternative. Ever since trying this mixture in the form of a milky latte, a pure water tea, or my most recent favorite a coconut oil + matcha + water tea, i’ve become obsessed!

So What is Matcha?

Matcha is a young, delicate tea leaf variety typically grown and processed in Japan. Essentially, it’s powdered green tea leaves. The finest blends are bright limey green (I really like matcha LOVE organic stone ground , purchased at a discount from Thrive Market). The flavor of matcha is mild with a little bit of sweetness and the tea can be used in more than just tea or lattes; it’s used in baking, smoothies, pancakes, soups, and LOTS more!

What Makes it Healthy?

Matcha is probably best known for its incredibly high levels of antioxidants and its metabolism boosting compounds.

Full Benefits include:

• Packed with antioxidants to support inflammation management
• Boosts metabolism and burns calories
• Detoxifies effectively and naturally
• Calms the mind and relaxes the body
• Rich in fiber, chlorophyll and vitamins
• Enhances mood and aids in concentration
• Provides vitamin C, selenium, chromium, zinc and magnesium
• Supports mental focus and endurance. Provides energy without the jitters.

For those of us prone to a lil’ bit of anxiety… HELLO THATS ME! This caffeine alternative gives NO jitters while packing the caffeine content of a shot of espresso. The energy is so clean. I read somewhere that Buddhist monk’s drink matcha everyday to assist them in mental clarity and provide the energy to focus. If the monks can get down with it, come on… you can too!

For me, the best way to enjoy a matcha tea latte is in the morning or in the afternoon after lunch where my mind and body are craving a little more space and time to relax, regroup, and focus on work and productivity. I started having Tea Time at work around 3:00 where I take the time to make this and it really helps me to recenter. Interested in learning more tips on how I stay focused and healthy at work? Check out my post on creating a healthy workplace.

I mentioned my current favorite Matcha recipe: Coconut Oil Matcha Latte. In this recipe, I combine matcha with another powerhouse superfood coconut oil. Coconut oil is another metabolism boosting food full of medium chain fatty acids which are used by the body in a different way to other fats. Combined, they create a delicious metabolism boosting drink with a light caffeine kick.

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Coconut Oil Matcha Latte

Servings 2

Ingredients

• 2 Tsp Ceremonial Grade Matcha
• 1 Tbsp Coconut Oil
• 1/4 Tsp Cinnamon
• 1/4 Tsp Turmeric
• Distilled Water

Instructions

1. Start with about 1 inch of hot water (not too hot, approx 90 degrees to not compromise the tea). Add 2 tsp ceremonial grade matcha, 1 tbsp coconut oil, and a dash of cinnamon and turmeric.  Blend well with a frother or Matcha wisk until fully combined and frothy. Add desired amount of additional water depending on how strong you like your tea. Blend in a blender until the mixture is fully combined and looks like a lime green masterpiece!