Matcha Tea, finely ground green tea originating from Japan, has won the hearts of people around the world. Its unique taste, color, and health benefits make it a star of the healthy lifestyle. But what if you're pregnant? Is Matcha Tea safe, and how might it affect you and your baby? Let’s find out!
What are the effects of Matcha Tea?
Matcha is not just an ordinary tea; we can think of it as a versatile helper for both the body and the mind. Let's look at the benefits you can get from Matcha Tea:
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Energy: The caffeine in matcha is released gradually, so forget about sudden energy crashes. With one cup, you have energy for the whole afternoon. Also popular is the Matcha Latte, which combines all the benefits of matcha with the gentle taste of milk.
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Better concentration: Thanks to the substance L-theanine, you'll be calmer, but still able to focus better. Perfect for work or study.
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Immune support: Matcha is literally packed with antioxidants and vitamins that help the body defend against illness.
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Calorie burning: Matcha slightly speeds up metabolism, so you burn more without needing to move more. On the other hand, thanks to the energy boost, it may also motivate you to be more active and perform better.
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Body detox: The high content of chlorophyll helps cleanse the body of toxins, which your liver will especially appreciate.
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Healthy skin: Thanks to its antioxidants and detoxifying effects, it contributes to clearer and more radiant skin.
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Stress reduction: The combination of caffeine and L-theanine has calming effects, improving mood and reducing tension.
Fun facts about Matcha Tea you might not know
Matcha is older than you think: Matcha Tea originated in China, where Buddhist monks first began using it as early as the 8th century. It arrived in Japan in the 12th century and became a key part of the tea ceremony.
Superfood in its purest form: Matcha contains 10 to 15 times more antioxidants than regular green tea. This is because you consume the whole tea leaf in powdered form, not just an infusion of the leaves.
It has its own "tea path": In Japan, there is a tradition called Chanoyu, the art of the tea ceremony, where matcha is prepared with precision and respect. It’s a ritual that aims to calm the mind and support meditation.
The powder that lasts for ages: Properly stored matcha (in the dark and cold) retains its properties and taste much longer than other types of tea.
The origin of the tea affects the taste: The best matcha comes from the Japanese regions of Uji, Nishio, and Shizuoka. Each of these regions has its own microclimate that influences the taste and aroma of the tea.
It helps with mood: L-theanine in matcha contributes to the production of alpha waves in the brain, which induces a feeling of calm and well-being without making you sleepy.
Matcha in pregnancy: Yes or no?
During pregnancy, women often ask what they can and cannot consume. Matcha Tea contains caffeine, which is a key factor to consider. Unlike coffee, however, it releases energy gradually thanks to L-theanine, meaning there are no sudden energy spikes or nervousness. It is therefore a great alternative to coffee, especially during pregnancy.
Daily caffeine intake: Doctors recommend not exceeding 200 mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy. A cup of matcha tea contains approximately 25–35 mg of caffeine, which is less than a regular cup of coffee. With moderate consumption, matcha can therefore be a suitable alternative.
Matcha Tea can be a great companion during pregnancy if you consume it in moderation. It offers a gentle source of energy, a wealth of antioxidants, and support for metabolism, which you will especially appreciate during the challenging moments of pregnancy. And the best part? It’s so versatile that you can enjoy it in a thousand ways. If you’re unsure, always consult your doctor. Every pregnancy is unique, just like you and your taste for matcha! 🍵