Nutritionist Reveals Truth Behind Matcha Health Claims and Popular Trend

Matcha, a powdered green tea originating from 12th-century Japanese Buddhist tea ceremonies, has recently surged in popularity in Israel, often seen as a health-boosting beverage. Traditionally, matcha involves shading tea leaves before harvest to increase chlorophyll and amino acids, then grinding them into a fine powder mixed with hot water, allowing consumption of the whole leaf and a high concentration of active compounds.

Matcha contains powerful antioxidants like EGCG, which have anti-inflammatory properties, and a combination of caffeine and L-Theanine that promotes focused, calm energy without typical coffee side effects. Some small studies suggest matcha may improve attention, short-term memory, and sleep quality, especially in older adults with mild cognitive decline. However, there is no strong evidence that matcha prevents cancer, protects the heart, cures chronic diseases, or is superior to regular green tea. Weight loss benefits are unproven beyond those of standard green tea.

Modern matcha drinks, especially popular lattes served in cafes, often contain minimal amounts of matcha powder, sometimes less than the 2-3 grams used in studies, and are heavily diluted with milk or milk substitutes high in starches and oils. These drinks frequently include large amounts of sugar, with some containing 4 to 8 teaspoons per serving, negating potential metabolic benefits and causing blood sugar spikes.

Clinical dietitian Adi Bezalel from Clalit Health Services in Jerusalem advises that consuming 1-2 cups of traditional matcha daily is generally safe but cautions about caffeine content equivalent to a small coffee. She emphasizes that authentic matcha prepared with sufficient powder and water offers genuine nutritional advantages, including antioxidants and improved concentration. In contrast, most commercially available matcha beverages are more akin to sweet desserts than health drinks due to added sugars and milk dilution.

Consumers should be aware that the vibrant green color and health halo effect of matcha lattes often mask their true nutritional profile. For real benefits, matcha must be consumed in adequate amounts and proper form, without excessive additives.