Millions of people turn to caffeinated beverages daily for an energy boost to help them focus and accomplish their tasks. Coffee and matcha are among the most popular choices.
Choosing coffee or matcha depends on your preferences and health goals (Pixbay).
While coffee is known for its quick and intense effect due to its high caffeine content, matcha is known for its more balanced and sustained effect.
A report published by the science website Verywell Health reviewed the differences between matcha and coffee in terms of their impact on energy levels, focus, and overall health, attempting to answer the question: Which provides longer-lasting energy without unpleasant side effects?
What are the main differences between coffee and matcha?
Caffeine Content
A regular cup of coffee contains about 95 mg of caffeine, although the caffeine content can vary depending on the brand and brewing method.
In contrast, the caffeine content of a single cup of matcha ranges between 40 and 90 mg. The caffeine content depends on factors such as the amount of powder, the type of leaves used, and the brewing method.
The effects of caffeine on the body may differ between coffee and matcha.
Alertness Level: Coffee provides a faster boost of alertness. Its high caffeine content inhibits the sleep-inducing hormone adenosine more quickly than matcha. This is one reason why some people prefer to drink coffee before going to work or doing their morning exercise.
However, the immediate effect of coffee can wear off quickly, causing a noticeable drop in energy.
Matcha, on the other hand, provides the body with a slower and more sustained energy boost.
Matcha contains the amino acid L-theanine, which has calming effects that may help slow down and balance the stimulating effect of caffeine.
What are the health benefits of both beverages?
Coffee reduces the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and liver disease. It acts as a natural stimulant and may benefit brain health, boost metabolism, and reduce appetite.
Matcha is rich in antioxidants (compounds that protect the body's cells from damage), supports brain function, and benefits heart health. It also has a calming effect thanks to its theanine content, in addition to promoting a healthy gut microbiome.
What about the potential downsides?
Coffee can cause jitters or anxiety, heartburn, and acid reflux due to its acidity, and it may negatively affect sleep.
Matcha, on the other hand, can also lead to sleep disturbances and may cause nausea.
Which is better?
Choosing between coffee and matcha depends on your preferences and health goals. As mentioned in the report, both beverages offer various health benefits, along with some drawbacks that may be more significant for some than others.
Here are some key points to help you decide whether matcha or coffee is right for you:
* Coffee provides a greater energy boost for those seeking immediate alertness.
* Matcha provides a slower, more sustained energy boost without a sharp, sudden crash.
* * Matcha is less likely to cause jitters and anxiety because its theanine content helps counteract the effects of caffeine.
* Coffee is more acidic than matcha, which may cause stomach irritation or heartburn in some people.
* Both coffee and matcha can support your weight loss goals by promoting fat burning.