Matcha or Coffee - Which is Best for You?

Are you one of those people who head to the coffee machine before you've even opened your eyes properly in the morning? Coffee can be good and healthy, but I often hear people say, "I wish I drank less coffee." So what if I told you that there's an alternative to the classic cup of coffee that gives you consistent energy throughout the day - without the familiar "crash" or caffeine headache that many people struggle with? The answer is matcha!

Let's dive deeper into why matcha may be a better choice than coffee—for your body, your mind, and even the planet.

Less stress and better focus

When I talk to people about the difference between tea and coffee, one of the biggest benefits I highlight is the way energy is released in the body. Coffee gives you an immediate energy boost, but often comes with a sudden crash later in the day. With matcha, it's a different story.

Matcha is high in caffeine, yes – but it’s combined with an amino acid called L-Theanine. L-Theanine is found only in tea leaves and is known to promote relaxed alertness and increase alpha brain waves, which help keep you focused and calm throughout the day. This means you’ll get energy that lasts longer, without the unwanted side effects like anxiety or the “shakes” that coffee can cause. Imagine being energized and having a Zen-like calm at the same time – that’s the essence of matcha!

L-Theanine balances out the effects of caffeine and promotes relaxed concentration. A study published in the Asia Pacific Journal of Clinical Nutrition confirms that the combination of caffeine and L-Theanine is perfect for sustained productivity.

Maybe you’re at work and have a demanding task ahead of you – this is where matcha really shines. Instead of attacking the task at 100 km/h with a cup of coffee and later feeling stressed and anxious and ultimately completely daffodil, matcha helps you stay focused without feeling overwhelmed.

A super boost of antioxidants

When it comes to matcha's health benefits, it's hard to ignore the impressive amount of antioxidants it contains. One of the most important antioxidants in matcha is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). You don't have to remember the name, but know that this is a powerful antioxidant that has been linked to anti-inflammatory properties, among other things.

Regular green tea has all the same properties as matcha, but matcha contains up to 137 times more EGCG than regular green tea because we drink the tea leaves instead of brewing them in water. This means that by drinking matcha you are giving your body a real boost of healthy, protective nutrients. Not to mention that EGCG can also contribute to weight loss by increasing metabolism and fat burning. So if you want to combine healthy energy with a flatter stomach, matcha might be the way to go!

Gentle on the stomach

Another benefit of matcha is that it is much gentler on the stomach than coffee. Many coffee lovers experience heartburn or stomach upset after a few cups of coffee. This is due to the high acidity of coffee, which can irritate the stomach lining. Matcha, on the other hand, is alkaline, making it much gentler on the stomach. So if you have a sensitive stomach, matcha can be a perfect alternative to get your caffeine fix without the discomfort.

Better for the heart and overall health

Matcha also has several heart-healthy benefits. Regular consumption of matcha is linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. One reason is its ability to reduce LDL cholesterol, the bad cholesterol, and improve blood pressure. Additionally, the high amount of antioxidants in matcha can help protect your cells from damage, which in turn contributes to better overall health.

Unlike coffee, which when consumed excessively can lead to heart palpitations, anxiety and poor sleep, matcha gives you a smoother, more balanced experience.

A sustainable choice

Matcha doesn't just score points on the health front—it's also a more sustainable choice than coffee. Coffee production requires large amounts of water and energy, and many coffee plantations contribute to deforestation and environmental damage. Matcha, on the other hand, is made from shade-grown tea leaves that are carefully hand-picked and stone-ground.

For those who care about both health and the planet, it's good to know that by choosing matcha, you can enjoy your drink with a clear conscience.

Matcha is the winner!

Let's sum it up. While coffee has its place, especially for those who love its instant kick, matcha offers a smoother, healthier, and more sustainable experience. With consistent energy, fewer side effects, a healthy dose of antioxidants, and a kinder approach to your stomach, matcha is a winner on several fronts.