Matcha, with its vibrant green hue and rich history, has become a beloved part of modern wellness trends for good reason. But it's not just another trendy beverage – it is a powerhouse of health benefits for your skin and gut.
This vibrant green powder is packed with antioxidants and nutrients that can do wonders for your overall well-being, making it a fantastic alternative to coffee. Especially for those who are caffeine-sensitive or are trying to reduce espresso-based beverages like lattes or cappuccinos that contain dairy.
Matcha vs. Coffee
Unlike traditional coffee, which may lead to digestive discomfort for some individuals, Matcha is renowned for its gentle impact on the stomach. The high levels of catechins found in Matcha – powerful antioxidants known for their anti-inflammatory properties – can actively support gut health and improve digestion. These beneficial compounds help create an environment conducive to the growth of good bacteria while simultaneously reducing gut inflammation. As a result, those who struggle with digestive issues often find relief by incorporating Matcha into their daily routine.
Why Matcha Is Great For Your Skin
But the benefits of Matcha don't stop at gut health; it is also great for your skin. Matcha's potential to enhance the complexion and overall health of the skin cannot be overstated. With its abundant supply of antioxidants, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which belongs to the polyphenol compound, has numerous health benefits, including:
Reduced inflammation and stress
Weight loss
Improved heart and brain health
Matcha is also a strong opponent against free radicals that can cause premature skin aging. By neutralizing these harmful molecules and reducing inflammation, EGCG assists in promoting clear, radiant, and youthful skin. Additionally, thanks to the presence of chlorophyll, Matcha aids in detoxifying the skin and mitigating redness and blemishes – a natural pathway to achieving a youthful and healthy glow. The antioxidants in Matcha can help protect the skin from UV damage and improve skin elasticity, leading to a more youthful complexion.
Our Favourite Matcha Beverage for Summer
While Matcha Lattes are a popular drink of choice by many, they often contain dairy and are loaded with refined sugars. Both of these ingredients are not ideal for those with acne-prone skin. Also, the presence of dairy certainly makes the drink 'heavier,' which can lead to bloating and feeling sluggish - the opposite of what many turn to Matcha for - a bust of energy!
Below, we've included one of our favourite Matcha-based recipes for summer. Incredibly refreshing, you can make it in under 5 minutes from ingredients you likely have on hand.
Starlight's Sparkling Matcha Lemonade
Ingredients:
1 tbsp ceremonial-grade matcha powder
2 tbsp hot water
1 cup sparkling water
Juice of 1/2 lemon (plus slices for garnish)
1 tsp of date syrup (optional)
Ice
Directions:
Sift and whisk matcha powder into a bowl.
Add date syrup if desired.
Pour hot water over the matcha powder and date syrup, then whisk vigorously until well combined.
Fill a glass with ice and add sparkling water.
Squeeze lemon juice over the water.
Pour the Matcha blend into the glass and mix well.
Garnish with lemon slices and enjoy the refreshing Sparkling Matcha Lemonade.
This invigorating drink provides a boost of energy and delivers nourishing benefits. Make it a part of your afternoon routine to support your gut health, achieve glowing skin, and enjoy a refreshing drink that will leave you feeling rejuvenated. Embrace the wonders of Matcha and elevate your skin health journey with this simple ingredient.
Did you try our Sparkling Matcha Lemonade? Let us know what you think!
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