"Welcome to the Chill Times Wellness One-oh-Ones, a digital encyclopedia for all your wellness needs. This series is geared to tackle those everyday questions you secretly ask yourself in wonderment when you hear about a new trend. Instead of pretending to know what people are talking about, come hang with us as we uncover the latest and greatest in the wellness industry. Check back Wednesday once a month to pick up your refill — no doctor’s signature required. 

It’s no secret we love a Matcha Latte, and over the past few years, matcha’s popularity has surged and has almost gone on to replace coffee. But what’s the hype with matcha and why do so many people claim its benefits? We’re here to help you out.

What Is Matcha?

Simply put, matcha is a highly concentrated and finely ground green tea powder. Those who don’t like matcha often claim they think it tastes like grass, but considering it is super finely ground tea, they’re not too far off. Like green tea, matcha contains antioxidants, but one cup of matcha is known to contain as many antioxidants as ten cups of green tea, and it’s because of this that matcha really shot to popularity.

What Are The Benefits?

Matcha is a go-to for many because of the undeniable benefits that come along with it. Though the antioxidant count alone often sways people, matcha does a lot more than that. Let’s dive in. 

Matcha and Antioxidants

Okay, so the antioxidants do need their own section to really dive into. Antioxidants are such a buzzword right now, as their ability to fight the aging process and prevent chronic diseases has become more well known. With that in mind, people consume matcha to help prevent chronic illnesses and even cancer over a long period of time. More short term, though, drinkers often notice decreased fine lines, increased plumpness, and even generally clearer skin.

Matcha and Illness

Aside from the general benefits that high doses of antioxidants can bring, matcha also contains a different class of antioxidant known as a catechin, which is said to be particularly helpful with illness and is not found in any other foods. Matcha particularly contains EGCG, which counteracts free radical damage, UV damage, radiation, and other chemicals that lead to cell degradation. Though studies are still in the works, many do recognize EGCG’s anti-cancer properties and use it to help restore the body’s overall health. 

Matcha and Cognitive Function

Of course, the primary reason people opt for matcha is to use in replacement of coffee or other caffeinated beverages. Matcha gives a smooth burst of energy with less jitters and a more manageable come down, primarily thanks to L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid that naturally helps to increase your brain’s capacity for memory and learning and naturally washes a wave of calm over the drinker. While L-theanine is found is many teas, the concentration found in matcha is thought to be five times more than any other tea, making it one of the best sources of this amino acid to choose from.

If you’re interested in trying matcha, opt for one of these options from Shop Chill!"