Once limited to traditional tea ceremonies, the popularity of matcha has surged in recent years.
From cafés to social functions, matcha lattes have become a personal and social media favorite, giving rise to various brands and influencers promoting matcha lattes as a healthy alternative.
As matcha lattes take over the internet and become a daily habit of many, various questions arguing about the benefits of the drink have surfaced in recent times. Sure, they are trendy, but how do they affect health? Matcha has a dual profile; it is beneficial to the liver while also posing some health risks.
A review by professors Danuta I. Kosik-Bogacka and Katarzyna Piotrowska from Pomeranian Medical University in Szczecin, Poland, says matcha may support liver health. Antioxidants called catechins, including EGCG, can limit fat buildup in the liver, especially in those who have fatty liver. They are also said to detoxify the liver, reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, which are part of liver damage.
Matcha might be good for the liver and health in moderation. However, a research article shows its link to reduced iron absorption. Times of India also reports that very high concentration of it though rare, can cause some liver damage, as liver enzymes can spike when taken in high amounts.
A research article, “Inhibition of non-haem iron absorption in man by polyphenolic containing beverages,” by Richard F. Hurrell, Manju Reddy and James D. Cook found that teas with complex polyphenols reduce iron absorption. Phenols are compounds that are a type of antioxidant. Green teas have catechins, which are polyphenols. Now, this can show why some people can have lower iron levels when they drink multiple servings of matcha lattes in a day.
Some food articles like one by Jonan Pilet, a Newsletter Editor and a Social Media Coordinator at Food Safety News notes that quality of matcha or the fake kind can also play a role in health. Ceremonial-grade matcha is a go-to option for those who are opting for a healthy alternative.
Consuming two cups of matcha lattes is considered safe for most, as moderation is key. Experts stress the importance of avoiding high doses of matcha supplements or concentrated powders as they pose a greater risk to health, especially liver health.
Often, hype can overshadow the facts behind the trends. Understanding the two sides of the coin allows drinkers to enjoy matcha lattes responsibly.
While matcha lattes have become quite the craze, but when consumed wisely, they allow various perks such as health benefits, refreshment, flavors and a gentle boost of caffeine to kick things off.
Although matcha lattes have become quite the craze, they should be consumed wisely. Matcha has showed to offer the perks of health benefits and a gentle boost of caffeine to start the day. Enjoy lattes but don’t over do it, overconsumption has shown to have adverse effects.
