Pain medicine expert shares health benefits of matcha, and its risks

Health benefits of matcha: It helps boost focus, supports heart health, and provides steady energy without the jitters that some people experience with coffee (Image: Pexels)

Matcha’s popularity continues to be on the rise. The Japanese green drink has caught the fancy of netizens for its nutritional benefits and Pinterest-worthy aesthetic. But did you know that a cup of matcha may contain more caffeine than coffee and interfere with the absorption of iron in your body?

Health benefits of matcha

Dr Kunal Sood, an anaesthesiologist and pain medicine expert, shared in an Instagram post more about matcha, starting with its health benefits. “Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder, packed with antioxidants, amino acids, and natural compounds. It helps boost focus, supports heart health, and provides steady energy without the jitters that some people experience with coffee,” he said.

Caffeine amount: matcha vs coffee

However, he cautioned that matcha’s caffeine content can exceed coffee, even if you drink the same amount.

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“When it comes to caffeine, matcha has more per gram than both regular green tea and coffee beans. However, the actual caffeine content depends on serving size and preparation. A standard 2-ounce serving of matcha contains 38 to 88 milligrams of caffeine, while an 8-ounce cup of coffee has about 96 milligrams. While coffee has more caffeine per serving, matcha is more concentrated,” he added.

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A post shared by Kunal Sood, MD (@doctorsoood)

He further added that a cup of matcha could actually have more caffeine than a cup of coffee based on its preparation.

How matcha interferes with iron absorption

Further, it also affects the absorption of iron in the body. “Matcha does also contain tannins — compounds that can affect how your body absorbs iron. Drinking matcha right after an iron-rich meal may lower iron absorption, so it's best to wait at least an hour before having it,” he said.

Celebrities who enjoy drinking matcha

Recently, Ranbir Kapoor confessed to giving in to the matcha craze due to his wife Alia Bhatt. “Some people are really for it, and some are against it, but I enjoy it. A good matcha with almond milk and jaggery tastes pretty good and gives me my caffeine,” he shared.

Even Sara Tendulkar, daughter of former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar, is big on matcha and earlier shared a recipe for her matcha protein smoothie that went viral. She often gives a peek into her day and doesn’t miss sharing pictures of her favourite drink.

FAQs on the Health Benefits of Matcha

1. What are the health benefits of matcha?

Matcha is rich in antioxidants, amino acids, and natural compounds. It boosts focus, supports heart health, and provides steady energy without the jitters often associated with coffee.

2. How much caffeine does matcha contain compared to coffee?

A standard 2-ounce serving of matcha has 38 to 88 milligrams of caffeine, while an 8-ounce cup of coffee contains about 96 milligrams. Matcha is more concentrated in caffeine per gram than coffee.

3. Can matcha interfere with iron absorption?

Yes, matcha contains tannins that can affect iron absorption. It’s best to wait at least an hour after an iron-rich meal before drinking matcha to avoid lowering iron absorption.

4. Why is matcha popular among celebrities?

Celebrities like Ranbir Kapoor and Sara Tendulkar enjoy matcha for its taste and caffeine boost. Kapoor favours matcha with almond milk and jaggery, while Tendulkar often shares her matcha protein smoothie recipes.

5. What should one consider when consuming matcha?

Be mindful of matcha’s caffeine content, which can be higher than coffee. Also, to prevent interference with iron absorption, avoid drinking matcha immediately after meals rich in iron.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.