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Much about matcha has been said in recent times. With some touting it as the better alternative to the most-loved caffeine beverage: coffee. But, is matcha really better than coffee, or is it just a hype created by swindling trends and fancy lattes?
While coffee has been the wake-up alarm and a go-to beverage for many, matcha is quickly catching on as the healthier alternative. As coffee is packed with caffeine, which gives a boost of energy, it also gives jitters, dehydration and anxiety.
To settle if matcha is really better than coffee, we talked to Aishwarya Jaiswal, Nutritionist & Diabetes Educator, Apollo Hospitals, Lucknow, to share her expert advice on which caffeine option deserves a chance in your morning routine.
Which Gives More Energy Boost: Matcha or Coffee?
Matcha, extracted from green tea leaves, is a popular Japanese tea that has been around for ages but has gained traction only recently. While the internet is divided over its hype, diabetes educator and nutritionist Aishwarya Pande sees it as the healthier alternative to coffee.
“Matcha is a powdered form of Japanese green tea( Camellia sinensis ) that has been gaining global popularity for good reason. Comparing matcha and coffee on the energy boost basis: Coffee delivers a quick energy boost because of higher caffeine. However, Matcha decreases stress, enhances attention & memory as it contains fat-soluble vitamins & chlorophylls, making it a healthier choice.”
What to Drink If You Have Anxiety or High Cortisol?
If you are an ardent procaffeineator or need at least 3-4 cups of coffee each day to power through the day, then you are no stranger to the jitters and dehydration. But it can also exacerbate other problems like anxiety or increase cortisol stress in your body. Here, matcha might help as it contains polyphenols. Pande explained why matcha is better while battling anxiety and cortisol.
“If you struggle with anxiety or have higher cortisol levels, Matcha would be a great option for you as it has been linked to having antioxidants like polyphenols. Polyphenols are powerful antioxidants, almost as effective as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, carotene and tocopherol. Research has been done regarding improvement in cognitive function, but Match can’t be a treatment for anxiety and high cortisol.”
ALSO READ: How Much Matcha is Too Much Matcha: Expert Explains Its Side Effects
Matcha vs Coffee: Which is Better?
“Undoubtedly, matcha is better and worth the hype because it’s full of Vitamins, fibres, and proteins. One cup of matcha dissolved in water produces 3 times more catechin content (antioxidants) than any other green tea. L- theanine is an amino acid in matcha that improves sleep, stress, and mood,” explained Pande.
But due to its earthy and umami flavour, some people might find matcha a bitter alternative to coffee, leading them to add sugars, both artificial and natural.
Pande advised, “Ultimately, Matcha powder has benefits, but the milk and sweeteners used in matcha drinks might not. Make your matcha latte with nutrient-dense milks like soy and limit added sugars.”
On the other hand, coffee provides a caffeine rush, which often comes with a crash, with almost no catechin content to show for in coffee. But coffee also has a distinct aroma and taste that makes it an addictive drink to have.
ALSO READ: White Tea Vs Green Tea: Expert Shares Which Is Better For Your Health
Which is Better for the Gut: Coffee or Matcha?
Comparing matcha with coffee is tricky, as long-term or higher consumption of coffee leads to high blood pressure, Gastritis and other digestive discomfort. So better to opt healthier option like matcha, but in moderation.
“As a Dietician, I would advise that while choosing matcha, colour is one of the major things to look for. It should be a vibrant green colour, and in addition to it, a good matcha will have a green aroma and flavour. Choose authentic matcha for maximum benefits,” concluded Pande.
Is Matcha Addictive Like Coffee?![Matcha addiction]()
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As matcha holds a higher content of caffeine than coffee, it is a common myth that it is as addictive as coffee. To debunk this myth, Pande said, “Matcha is not considered addictive.
It’s the safest option for daily consumption, but in moderation (20g-30g per day).”
ALSO READ: Know Your Sip: Hojicha vs Matcha: Which is better for your Health?
Conclusion: Matcha Might Be a Better Choice
While coffee has gained a much-deserved reputation as the ultimate wake-up beverage, matcha is a close second in popularity. However, as more people get hold of matcha’s influence and health properties like antioxidant dose, L-theanine, and amino acid content, many are rethinking their caffeine choice. With higher caffeine content as its USP, matcha is reeling in more than just trend followers. Now, matcha is being recognised for its health benefits, while nutritionists also vouch for it as a better alternative to coffee.
So, it might now be the right time to give matcha a real try!