Why should you replace coffee with matcha tea?

Many people have already joined the fashion on swap coffee for matcha tea wake up in the morning. Some do it because they like the taste of it, others because they feel they like it better in the stomach, and finally there are those who do it because they look awake, but less nervous. Is the latter a placebo or is there really an explanation for its occurrence?

We must not forget that while the one in tea is commonly called theine, the stimulant in coffee and tea is exactly the same: caffeine. Therefore, we might think that the effects should be the same, but they are not. These people are not experiencing a placebo, but a pure reality.

And the fact is that in addition to caffeine in matcha tea there is another substance called L-theaninewhich promotes slower absorption of caffeine. Thus, its consumers are awake longer with coffee and, moreover, do not experience the nervousness characteristic of this drink. All of them are advantages; Well, besides, that’s not the only benefit we know of. matcha tea.

More time on combat duty, but without nerves

Before talking about the effects of matcha tea, we need to understand how caffeine. This is a substance that is very similar in structure to adenosinemolecule with many functions, among which the effect soothing and relaxing. This effect is due to the connection between adenosine and our genetic exchange currency: adenosine triphosphate (ATP). This molecule is formed by the combination of three phosphorus atoms with adenosine in a reaction that requires a lot of energy. And this is where its calming role comes into play.

When there is not enough energy to form ATP, adenosine is released and binds to receptors located in nervous system, through a union similar to a key in a lock. This union sends a signal to the brain about a lack of energy, so a sedative effect is triggered, so, to put it very roughLet’s get our strength back. Since caffeine is very similar to adenosine, it can bind to adenosine receptors as if it were making a copy of a key.

Thus, while caffeine binds to receptors, adenosine cannot be fixed and perform its function. That’s why caffeine keeps us awake. The problem is that in the case of caffeine in coffee, this effect is very pronounced. It depends a lot on the person, on their genetic profile and how used they are to coffee; but in general the effects of caffeine are very fast. In just 10-15 minutes, enough caffeine molecules are already attached to the adenosine receptors to make us feel energetic. But, after two or three hours (on average) these molecules have already been metabolized, leaving lock free again.

As for the caffeine in matcha tea, the binding to adenosine receptors is the same. There is only one difference. And the fact is that since it also contains the amino acid L-theanine, it promotes a more progressive union. Caffeine molecules bind to adenosine receptors gradually rather than suddenly. So, not many signals of fatigue reach the brain, but there is no characteristic nervousness associated with the presence of a large number of saturated receptors. The effect is constant vigilance, in some cases up to six hours, but without nervousness.

What is the difference between matcha and green tea?

Theanine is an amino acid. That is, one of the 20 types of blocks that make up proteins. It is found in large quantities in tea. especially green and black. So it’s worth asking if you can get these regulatory effects of caffeine with any tea. After all, matcha is still green tea.

But yes, there is a difference. And the fact is that matcha is grown and processed in a completely different way. First, if it is to be used to make matcha, green tea bushes are kept out of the sun during flowering. 20-30 days before harvest. Growing in the shade allows increase chlorophyll levelsmaking it even greener. But also promotes the production of amino acidsincluding L-theanine.

On the other hand, matcha tea is made by grinding whole leaves, removing only stems and veins. This way you also get more antioxidant substances like caffeine.

This is useful because there is more caffeine, so we get more of its benefits and besides, we will be more alert. But there is also more L-theanine, so caffeine he rations more slowly.

It should be understood that all this does not mean that coffee is bad, it is far from it. Now, if you need to enter the world in the morning, but without climbing walls, you can try adding walks to your breakfasts. It has a peculiar taste, but coffee also has it, and in the end, by choice or out of necessity, almost all of us drink it.