In recent years people have become more health-conscious and hence are in search of various solutions for staying fit. Though the fact is that they are so busy with accomplishing their goals, they do not get enough time for workouts and exercises. As a result, they try to stay fit by following a proper diet. When it comes to fitness, a healthy diet, weight loss, healthy skin, people mostly tend to search for one such food or drink, which can perform all such activities. And that one drink is tea! Well, there are many varieties of that are – Green tea, White tea, Oolong tea, Black tea, Matcha tea, etc. But today we will be discussing Green tea and matcha tea – What are the benefits of green tea vs matcha tea?, Which tea is better- Green tea or Matcha tea?
Before knowing the difference between green and matcha tea, let’s get a brief knowledge about both – Green and Matcha tea. The variety in teas are not limited so you must check out these soothing wholesale teas.
Green tea
Green tea is also known as non fermented or unfermented tea, because of healthy and natural elements preserved in it. The reason behind these preserved healthy elements is the process of cultivating green tea. Green tea is not processed much before it’s poured in the cup. The leaves of Camellia Sinensis are plucked and are quickly heated, either by frying or by steaming thereafter the leaves are dried to prevent oxidation. Green tea is known to have catechins, which are antioxidants that help fight as well as prevent cell damage. The benefits of Green tea are not limited and this makes us want to consume it daily. But does tea expire at some point? The most well-known fact about green tea is that it helps in weight loss and also helps to fight cancer.
Matcha tea
Matcha tea is a very famous Japanese tea, which is known for its health benefits. Just like other teas, matcha tea is also cultivated from the shrub – Camellia Sinensis. The fact that differs matcha tea from other teas is its cultivation. Matcha tea is shade-grown before 2-3 weeks of harvesting. After harvesting, the leaf buds of the plant are plucked, the veins and stems are removed from leaves. It is then stone-ground into a fine powder. The powder has a light green color. As the tea leaves are shade-grown, it increases the level of chlorophyll in it and turns the leaves darker green that causes an increase in the production of amino acids. The powder has a light green color. Other than tea, matcha powder is also used in many other food items that are: ice creams, milkshakes, cakes, pastries, chocolates, puddings, mousse, etc.
Here come points of difference between Green tea and Matcha tea:
- Anti-oxidants: Both the tea contains polyphenols, antioxidants, amino acids named L-theanine. In terms of antioxidants, matcha tea is more concentrated than green tea.
- Caffeine: As it is shade-grown, it contains nutrients from all over tea life thus, it contains more caffeine as compared to green tea. Thus it provides more energy than green tea.
- Nutrients: While brewing green tea, the leaves are steeped into warm water for a few minutes and then are removed. When these leaves are removed from the water, few nutrients also get removed with the leaves. Whereas, while brewing matcha tea, as the leaves are stoned-ground, all the nutrients are ingested in the tea. Thus it is very clear that matcha tea is more nutritious than green tea.
- Texture: As matcha green tea is stone-ground to powder, it has a velvety texture. Whereas, green tea’s texture is gritty, like crushed leaves.
- Taste: Both the teas have some common flavors, that they are having a vegetal, grassy, and earthy taste. But there are few differences as well, Green tea is fresh, delicate, and light, sometimes it may taste floral, nutty and fruity. Matcha tea has an intense flavor. Mostly it is consumed with milk thus it also has a sweet taste.
Health benefits
Matcha tea:
- Packed with antioxidants
- Protects liver
- Improves kidney function
- Improves brain function
- Boost relaxation and alertness
Green tea:
- Maintains oral health
- Increase in metabolism
- Prevents Type 2 Diabetes
- Benefits skin
- May protect the brain from aging
Here are a few common health benefits between green tea and matcha tea:
- Aids weight loss
- Help prevent cancer
- Promotes heart health
Conclusion
In the race of benefits, matcha is a winner. But both the teas have some unique qualities which make them stand out of the crowd. Though choosing the right tea depends on one’s need, taste, and preferences.
