Lipton Matcha Green Tea Benefits
Matcha green tea has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years. As a finely ground powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves, matcha contains higher levels of antioxidants and caffeine than regular brewed green tea. Lipton's commercially available matcha powder makes enjoying the possible wellness perks easier than ever.
Green Tea Basics
All types of green tea derive from the Camellia sinensis tea plant. Unlike black tea which undergoes full oxidation, green varieties are less processed preserving key phytochemicals. The minimal processing of matcha green tea enables it to retain even more nutrients and healthful compounds.
What Makes Matcha Different
Matcha features uniquely high EGCG antioxidant content. As the leaves are ground whole into powder, you ingest the entire leaf versus only steeped water extracts. This provides higher concentrations of catechins like EGCG shown in studies to have protective cell benefits.
The shading growing process boosts amino acids like L-Theanine. This amino acid induces relaxation by altering brain waves without causing drowsiness. Together EGCG and L-Theanine confer both energizing and calming nervous system effects.
Lipton Matcha Offerings
Lipton provides easy access to high quality matcha green tea powder. Available in single serve sticks or multi-serve tins, their Ceremonial Blend offers a smooth, rich flavor. Their convenient Tea & Honey Mix infuses honey sweetness into each portion.
Possible Wellness Advantages
Research on key compounds in matcha suggests numerous evidence-based wellness advantages. Studied green tea matcha benefits include:
Weight Management
Compounds in Lipton matcha tea powder like EGCG and caffeine boost metabolism and fat breakdown for weight control. These catechins also curb hunger signals supporting appetite control for improved weight loss outcomes.
Blood Sugar Regulation
The unique nutrients in matcha green tea regulate glucose metabolism keeping blood sugar levels in check. This helps prevent energy crashes after carb consumption and benefits prediabetic/diabetic parameters on blood testing.
High Antioxidant Content
As a potent antioxidant source, frequent matcha intake limits damaging effects of free radicals linked to chronic disease and accelerated aging. Matcha exhibits over 15 times more antioxidants than berries and dark chocolate.
Cognitive Enhancer
The natural nootropics or smart drugs in Lipton matcha like L-Theanine and EGCG boost focus, alertness, mood, and mental endurance without jitteriness. Even one cup demonstrates measurable cognitive benefits.
Exercise Performance
Research found matcha green tea enhances both anaerobic power output and endurance capacity during workouts. Caffeine and other nutrients reduce fatigue allowing extended athletic activity.
Heart Health
Studies correlate routine matcha consumption with healthier cholesterol levels and cardiovascular function. These effects reduce the risks of high blood pressure, atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke.
Gastrointestinal Function
The catechins in matcha combat inflammation implicated digestive disorders like ulcerative colitis and leaky gut syndrome. Its antioxidants also exhibit prebiotic-like effects supporting intestinal health.
How to Prepare Lipton Matcha
Basic Matcha Latte
For a simple tasty beverage, briskly whip 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon matcha powder with 2 ounces hot water until frothy. Add warmed dairy or non-dairy milk of choice. Sweeten if desired with sugar, honey or monk fruit.
Matcha Lemonade
For refreshing cool weather matcha lemonade, whisk 1 teaspoon powder into 1 cup cold water or juice of choice. Stir in 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice and ice. Sweeten to taste with simple syrup, stevia or honey if desired.
Iced Matcha Green Tea
Iced matcha makes an energizing summertime drink. Blend a teaspoon of powder with 1⁄4 cup hot water then stir over ice with additional cold water or milk. Customize with sweeteners, slices of citrus fruits or berries.
Smoothie Booster
Get an antioxidant boost in your smoothie by adding 1⁄2 to 1 teaspoon matcha. The flavor combines especially well with banana, berries, mango, peach, pineapple and greens.
Selection and Storage Tips
Choosing High Quality Matcha
When purchasing matcha powder like Lipton's line, opt for organic to avoid pesticides contaminating the whole ground leaves. Seek out ceremonial grade matcha for best flavor and health benefits. This signals higher quality shade-grown green tea leaves.
Proper Storage
To preserve freshness and potency of active compounds in matcha powder:
- Store away from light, heat, and moisture in an airtight tin or glass jar
- Refrigerate matcha for up to one year maximum
- Avoid transferring back and forth from fridge to room temperature
- Use within 3-4 months once opened for maximum antioxidants
With careful storage, Lipton matcha powder retains its vibrant green color and nutrient density longer.
Signs of Stale Product
Over time, matcha loses flavor and beneficial properties. Watch for these indicators it may be past its prime:
- Dull, faded greenish gray powder color
- Distinctively flat or rancid aroma
- Unpleasant harsh, astringent taste
For best experience with Lipton or any matcha brand, use within manufacturer suggested time after opening and store properly between uses.
Potential Risks
Matcha green tea constitutes as GRAS or generally recognized as safe by regulatory agencies. However, some risks exist with excessive intake mainly from excess caffeine, including:
- Nervousness, irritability, insomnia
- Fast heart rate, agitation, tremors
- Upset stomach
- Withdrawal headaches if stopped abruptly after regular high dose use
Drug Interactions
The caffeine in Lipton matcha green tea powder may interact with sedative medications causing overstimulation or changes in drug effectiveness if combined. Anyone on regular medications should exercise caution and check with doctors before adding matcha to their diet.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Cautions
Pregnant or breastfeeding women should limit caffeine from all sources including Lipton matcha. Exceeding 200mg daily may impact fetal development or cause colic or restlessness in nursing infants. Monitor infant behavior if consuming match while breastfeeding.
Otherwise, matcha likely poses no concerns during pregnancy/lactation if caffeine limits followed.
The Takeaway
With sky high antioxidant content and studied cognitive and wellness benefits, Lipton matcha green tea makes a wise addition to any diet. Just avoid excess intake, store carefully, and pair with healthy lifestyle measures to experience its full advantages.
FAQs
How is drinking matcha different than regular green tea?
Matcha is made from ground whole green tea leaves so you ingest more nutrients. It has higher antioxidant content along with amino acids like L-Theanine for focused calm energy.
What are the main health benefits of matcha tea?
Studies show matcha benefits weight loss, blood sugar regulation, heart health, brain function, exercise performance, digestion, and immunity through its high antioxidant and nutrient content.
Can you make iced matcha drinks with Lipton's powder?
Yes, Lipton's ceremonial grade matcha green tea powder can be whisked with hot then cold water for refreshing iced matcha drinks. Customize with lemon, sweeteners, or fruit.
Is it safe to drink Lipton matcha tea every day?
Yes, 1-2 cups of Lipton matcha per day falls within safe limits for most people. However, excessive intake may cause side effects so moderation is still advised.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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