A matcha made in heaven: Green tea powder and your teeth

If you like tea or soft drinks, you may have heard of matcha. Made from finely ground bright green tea leaves, matcha has been popular for centuries in Japan and is becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. as well. It has an earthy, slightly sweet taste that adds a unique flavor to teas, lattes, smoothies and desserts. 

Beyond its taste, matcha also offers potential health benefits. Like other green teas, matcha is full of antioxidants that are good for your health. But because matcha is made from entire tea leaves, it contains more antioxidants than other green teas. Matcha may help support:

The antioxidants in matcha are also good for your oral health. They’re highly effective in killing the bacteria in your mouth that may put you at risk for cavities, gum disease and bad breath.

Matcha has more caffeine than other green teas, which gives you a boost of energy and enhanced brain function. But there’s less caffeine in matcha than coffee or black tea, and it also has an amino acid called L-theanine. This amino acid can help you avoid the jitters and energy crash that are associated with drinking caffeine! But remember, too much caffeine can still cause headaches, digestive issues, sleep issues and irritability.

Looking for a simple drink that uses matcha? Try this recipe!

Matcha offers many upsides with minor side effects. These side effects are the same you’d expect from coffee or other teas. If you have caffeine sensitivity or heart issues, consult with your physician and dentist before adding it to your diet. Otherwise, feel free to mix up some matcha and enjoy!