You know what we say: if it’s good enough for Dua Lipa, it’s good enough for us! No, we’re not referencing the Houdini singer’s red carpet looks or makeup routine, we’re talking about her drink of choice – the matcha.
The star took to Instagram in June to share a picture of her enjoying a cup of the bright green drink while on her European summer tour. But, matcha’s celeb endorsements don’t end with Miss Lipa. It’s also popular with Kourtney Kardashian and Bella Hadid, while Zendaya has credited it as her go-to caffeine kick.
Though you likely didn’t know what matcha was five years ago, today you can order it from almost any cafe. As flavoured variations have the green light on social media (Strawberry Iced Matcha has 48 million posts on TikTok), this drink has definitely hit cult status.
As it turns out, matcha is more than a fad — it originated in China almost 1000 years ago and has evolved into a Japanese superfood. And, whether you love or loathe its distinct, almost grassy taste, it has a wealth of wellness benefits.
So, what exactly are the health benefits of matcha? We consulted the experts to find out.
What is it?
Top Nutrition Coaching dietician Andrea Soares says matcha comes from the Camellia sinensis plant. While this shrub also makes standard green tea, the preparation process for matcha differs significantly.
“Unlike regular green tea, which uses loose leaves or tea bags, matcha is made by finely grinding whole tea leaves,” Soares says.
“Before harvest, the plants are shaded from the sun for about three weeks to boost chlorophyll and beneficial compounds like theanine.
“After harvesting, the leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a powder, ensuring that when you consume matcha, you’re ingesting the entire leaf and all its nutrients.”
Should you swap your morning coffee for a matcha?
Have a friend who is boasting about trading their morning coffee for matcha? Equ’s nutritionist Caillin Bursill says this might be for good reason.
“The caffeine from your morning coffee can cause a quick burst of energy that can come with the jitters or crashes,” Bursill says.
“Matcha, on the other hand, has around one-third of the caffeine compared to coffee and provides a smoother, more balanced energy increase with no crash when the caffeine has run its course.”
It also contains the L-theanine amino acid — this unique combination promotes calmer, more sustained energy levels.
What are the health benefits?
Per a 2022 study, matcha contains three times the catechins antioxidant compared to loose-leaf green tea per serving,
“Due to utilising the whole green leaf, matcha is richer in nutrients such as fibre and caffeine compared to other green tea,” explains Bursill.
“Catechins may help fight inflammation, prevent cell damage and lower your risk of certain diseases, supporting overall health.”
Additionally, a 2020 study in Nutrients concluded matcha powder may have a beneficial effect in protecting against cognitive decline.
Soares explains the combination of caffeine and L-theanine could also support brain function improving attention, memory, and mental clarity.
“Studies have shown that this mix helps reduce mental fatigue while enhancing cognitive performance without the jittery side effects of caffeine alone,” she says.
Though research around matcha is developing, if you’re after a nutritious caffeine fix, it could be your cup of tea.
Our favourite matcha powders to shop:
Are you keen to jump on the bandwagon? We’ve rounded up the best matcha latte and tea powders to try.
Pure Matcha Latté
$54 at Matcha Made
Any matcha enthusiast will tell you ceremonial grade matcha is the best type, making this our first pick. You can whisk this organic and pesticide-free ceremonial-grade powder with warm water and top with either steamed or cold milk.
Another brew-tiful organic matcha option! T2’s powder boasts a rich, smooth savoury flavour. Serve with 150mLs of hot water (dash of milk optional).
Nutra Organics Collagen Matcha Latte
$27.96 at Healthy Life
Packed full of collagen and natural sweeteners, consider this an entry-level option. Simply add 2 teaspoons of this powder to a dash of hot or cold milk, stir to combine, then add remaining milk to make 200mL.
Tropeaka Matcha Tea Powder
$34 at Healthy Life
Looking for a no-nonsense cuppa? Tropeaka has you covered with this pouch of certified organic green powder. Combine one teaspoon with 250ml of water, juice or smoothie for a green tea kick.
