Do You Matcha?

Want more bang for your buck? How about more health benefits for your cup?

Green tea is great, but matcha green tea is even better. Matcha is powder made of finely ground green tea leaves, and the tea bushes are shade-grown to promote increased production of amino acids. All that hard work makes the beverage even more beneficial for the drinker—here are nine reasons to add some matcha to your mug this month.

1 2 3 4

One cup of matcha tea has the same amount of antioxidants as 10 cups of regular loose leaf green tea. Water can only extract so many of the tea’s health benefits, so it’s important to drink the whole leaves.

A Tufts University study found matcha contains 20 times more antioxidants per gram than pomegranates or blueberries and 60 times more per gram than spinach.

Green tea is loaded with a special class of antioxidants called catechins not found in other foods, specifically one called EGCg (epigallocatechin gallate) that is highly effective at fighting free radicals.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition published a study that found drinking matcha green tea can increase thermogenesis, i.e. the body’s process of burning calories. Participants saw their rates increase from the typical 8 to 10 percent of daily energy expenditure to 35 to 43 percent. That’s the kind of workout buddy we all need.

5 6 7 8

Matcha has about five times more of the amino acid L-theanine than other green teas, and it’s proven to promote concentration and reduce stress. The compound produces alpha waves in the brain, which induce relaxation. It also inhibits the side effects of the caffeine present in the tea, so you can get the energy boost without any jitters. That’s why Buddhist monks in Japan drank it before meditation practices over 1,000 years ago—otherwise they may have snoozed through class.

Because matcha is a powder, you can enjoy it even if you’re not into hot tea. Try it iced, in a latte or mixed into a smoothie.

Matcha is full of important vitamins like vitamin C, A, iron, calcium and potassium.

Another helpful compound in matcha is chlorophyll (all that shade growing causes it to produce much more than other teas). Chlorophyll aids the body in eliminating chemicals and heavy metals.

EXTRA TIP: Unlike most things you’re supposed to drink for your health, matcha can taste pretty good all on its own! It has a lingering sweetness, and you can be your own barista by using a small whisk to add some froth to your cup.

For 25 years, we have been committed to creating an environment where our residents feel secure, cared for and loved. We would be honored to care for your loved ones in their time of need.

Services Offered:

In-House Psychiatrist

Podiatrist

Ophthalmologist

Dermatologist

Nurse Practitioner

Organized Social Activities

Church Services

Daily Living Assistance

We are currently accepting referrals

Ocala’s Best-Kept Secret

Prestige Manor

Assisted Living Facility

6333 SE Babb Rd. | Belleview, FL | 352-307-6333 prestigemanorassistedliving.com