
The Ultimate Guide to Matcha and Its Benefits
Ellen Handlan, RDShare
What is Matcha?
Matcha is a vibrant green tea powder that comes from Japan, where it has been used for centuries in traditional tea ceremonies. Unlike regular green tea, where the leaves are steeped and then discarded, matcha is made by finely grinding whole tea leaves into a powder. This means you’re consuming the entire leaf—and all of its nutrients—in every sip.
Matcha is known for its smooth, earthy flavor and bright green color, which comes from a unique growing process. But beyond its taste and appearance, what makes matcha truly special is how it makes you feel.
Why Matcha Feels Different
Many people turn to matcha because it provides a clean, steady source of energy without the jitters or crashes of coffee. That’s because matcha contains a natural combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and focus. This means you get the alertness of caffeine but with a calm, centered feeling—making it perfect for mornings, work sessions, or even an afternoon pick-me-up.
Matcha is also incredibly versatile. Since it's a fine powder rather than needing to be brewed like coffee, no special equipment or cooking process is required. You can adjust the strength, choose how you prepare it, and easily mix it into anything—whether as a simple tea, a creamy latte, or even blended into smoothies.
How Matcha is Made
The process of making matcha is what gives it its unique benefits and rich flavor:
- Shading the Plants – Before harvesting, tea plants are shaded for several weeks. This increases their chlorophyll levels, giving matcha its bright green color and boosting its nutrients.
- Harvesting – Only the youngest, most tender leaves are picked to ensure the best taste and quality.
- Steaming and Drying – The leaves are quickly steamed to prevent oxidation, preserving their freshness. Then, they are dried.
- Grinding – Once dried, the leaves (now called tencha) are stone-ground into an ultra-fine powder, ready to be whisked into water or milk.
This careful process is what makes matcha one of the most nutrient-rich forms of green tea available.
What Makes Matcha So Good for You?
1. Steady Energy Without the Crash
- The combination of caffeine and L-theanine provides smooth, long-lasting energy without the highs and lows of coffee or energy drinks.
2. Packed with Antioxidants
- Matcha is loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps protect the body from stress and inflammation. It has significantly more antioxidants than regular green tea or coffee.
3. Supports Metabolism
- Studies suggest that matcha can boost metabolism and increase fat burning, making it a popular choice for those looking to support a healthy lifestyle.
4. Enhances Focus and Mental Clarity
- L-theanine helps improve concentration and cognitive function, making matcha a great alternative for a productive day.
5. Gentle on the Stomach
- Unlike coffee, which can sometimes cause acid reflux or digestive discomfort, matcha is alkaline-forming and easy on the stomach.
Matcha vs. Coffee: A Quick Comparison
Feature | Matcha | Coffee |
---|---|---|
Caffeine | Moderate (30-70 mg) | High (95-200 mg) |
Energy Effect | Calm, sustained energy | Quick spike, possible crash |
Nutrient Content | High in antioxidants, L-theanine | Lower in antioxidants |
Digestive Impact | Gentle on the stomach | Can cause acidity |
Ease of Use | Simple, minimal tools needed | Often requires machinery |
Impact on Teeth | No staining | Can stain teeth, cause bad breath |
Making Matcha Part of Your Daily Routine
For me, matcha has evolved into a ritual in which I intentionally fuel my body. I switched from coffee to matcha because I loved how it made me feel: energized but not jittery, focused but not overwhelmed. Its ability to taste reliably delicious in any smoothie or protein latte makes it an easy staple in my kitchen.
That’s why I created Moody Matcha—a version of matcha that’s balanced, gut-friendly, and designed to support steady energy without sugar crashes or digestive issues. My goal is to make matcha easy and enjoyable for everyone, whether you're completely new to it or looking for a better alternative to your daily caffeine routine.
If you’re new to matcha, I recommend trying it "The Moody Way"—a creamy latte made with a high-quality, flavored protein powder (such as vanilla) that enhances matcha’s natural taste. It’s a simple and satisfying way to start your day with balance and sustained energy. To learn more about crafting the perfect Moody Matcha, visit our blog for more tips and recipes.
Share your matcha creations with me on Instagram @MoodyMatcha—I’d love to see how you enjoy it!