Written by: Ashley Tan

Matcha has taken the world by storm – cue flashbacks to the recent global matcha shortage. It's not just because of its vibrant green colour or its umami taste but also due to its incredible health benefits. One of the key reasons matcha is considered a superfood is its abundance of antioxidants. But what exactly are antioxidants, and why should we care about them? Let’s dive into their role in matcha and how they can improve our health.

The Science Behind Matcha Antioxidants and Wellness

Imagine your body as a bustling city, and sometimes, tiny troublemakers called "free radicals" sneak in to cause chaos. These free radicals can make you feel tired, speed up your skin aging, or even make you sick. That’s where antioxidants come in—they’re the superheroes that swoop in to fight off these troublemakers!

Antioxidants are natural compounds that shield your body from oxidative stress caused by these free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, potentially leading to premature aging, weakened immune system, and chronic diseases.

Matcha is an antioxidant powerhouse, packed with polyphenols, especially catechins, which are renowned for their health-boosting properties. One specific catechin, called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), is particularly potent in fighting free radicals and promoting overall wellness.

Matcha Health Benefits Backed by Research

Consuming this antioxidant-rich matcha daily can have a transformative effect on our well-being. Here are some key benefits:

1. Keeping Us Healthy
   Matcha tea is a natural immune system supporter, helping your body fend off illnesses such as colds. The polyphenols in matcha have antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it a great choice for staying healthy year-round.
2. Gives Us Glowing Skin
   Antioxidants play a crucial role in maintaining youthful, glowing skin. By protecting your skin from oxidative damage, matcha helps reduce signs of aging. Adding matcha to your skincare routine, whether by drinking it or using matcha-infused products, can lead to healthier, more radiant skin.
3. Takes Care of Our Heart
   Our heart works super hard every day, it deserves some love as well! Studies show that the catechins in matcha help lower bad cholesterol and improve overall cardiovascular health. 
4. Helps Us Stay Fit
   Matcha’s EGCG enhances weight management by boosting metabolism and promoting fat burning. Combined with its natural ability to provide energy, matcha is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to maintain or achieve a healthy weight.
   

How to Incorporate Matcha Antioxidants into Your Routine

Here are some ways you could explore for your own routine:

• Start your day with a cup of matcha to detoxify your body.
• Use matcha as a natural energy booster before or after workouts by adding into your smoothies.
• Try matcha-infused skincare that could help with aging and healthier skin.

Matcha for Long-Term Health and Disease Prevention

Matcha is more than just a drink, it’s like a little daily gift for your body. From improving heart health to supporting your skin and boosting immunity, the benefits are hard to ignore. Matcha protects your body from oxidative stress, giving you a natural way to maintain overall health. Curious about the perks? We spilled all the tea right here 🍵✨.

So, the next time you sip on some matcha, remember those antioxidant superheroes that are working hard to make you healthier and happier!

References:

• Jakubczyk, K., Kochman, J., Kwiatkowska, A., Kałdunska, J., Dec, K., Kawczuga, D., & Janda, K. (2020). Antioxidant properties and nutritional composition of matcha green tea. Foods, 9(4), 483-. https://doi.org/10.3390/foods9040483
• Sivanesan, I., Gopal, J., Muthu, M., Chun, S., & Oh, J.-W. (2021). Retrospecting the Antioxidant Activity of Japanese Matcha Green Tea-Lack of Enthusiasm? Applied Sciences, 11(11), 5087-. https://doi.org/10.3390/app11115087