Wisconsin has freezing temps accompanied by wind, rain, ice and snow this week. Meanwhile, I am trying to balance my time in the sun with indoor activity to avoid burning. It's Florida hot! So I thought I would return to my friend the blog-post and highlight a few of my favorite things. Matcha powder has numerous health benefits due to its rich nutrient profile. Here are some of the key advantages:
1. High in Antioxidants
2. Enhances Brain Function
1. High in Antioxidants
- Matcha is packed with catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG),
2. Enhances Brain Function
- Contains L-theanine, which promotes relaxation and alertness without the jitters of coffee.
- Improves memory, focus, and cognitive function by enhancing dopamine and serotonin levels.
- Increases thermogenesis (calorie burning) by up to 17%.
- Supports fat oxidation, making it great for weight management.
- Helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides.
- May reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Rich in chlorophyll, which helps cleanse the body of toxins and heavy metals.
- Packed with vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with essential minerals like zinc.
- The catechins in matcha have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
- L-theanine promotes a calm, relaxed state while also increasing dopamine and serotonin levels.
- The combination of caffeine and L-theanine results in a steady energy boost without crashes.
- Helps detoxify the liver and improve overall liver function.
- Some studies suggest it reduces the risk of fatty liver disease.
- Helps with acne and inflammation due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Promotes collagen production, leading to healthier, glowing skin.
My favorite author, functional medicine doctor and cardiologist, Dr. William Davis, shares a recipe for a Matcha, Mint and Blueberry Frozen Smoothie in his book, Super Gut. amzn.to/43BuFeA (Here is a link on Amazon) Dr. Mark Hyman shares, "Unlike other books on the microbiome, Dr. Davis packs Super Gut with specific strategies and recipes so that the reader is well-equipped to regain health, vigor, even youthfulness." The book is excellent. I even grabbed a pen and highlighter yesterday as I was reading as it contains notable insights into cultivating a healthy gut microbiome and a 4-week strategy to eliminate bad bacteria and bring back the "good" ones essential for immunity, brain health, weight loss, and even restful sleep. Full disclosure, I have not made this specific smoothie. I keep it simple and typically blend ice, water, matcha powder and a little honey for a refreshing drink in sunny South Florida whereas in Wisconsin, I opt for a hot Matcha tea.
Dr. Davis' Matcha, Mint, and Blueberry Frozen Smoothie
1 teaspoon matcha tea powder (Amazon link: amzn.to/4iSlJGz)
7-8 mint leaves, coarsely chopped, or 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup cold water
Sweetener equivalent to 1.5 TBS sugar
1 teaspoon inulin/FOS, acacia powder, or other prebiotic powder (optional)
1 1/2 cups your choice of yogurt
Mix all in a blender. If the smoothie is too thin, allow it to set in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Dr. Davis' Matcha, Mint, and Blueberry Frozen Smoothie
1 teaspoon matcha tea powder (Amazon link: amzn.to/4iSlJGz)
7-8 mint leaves, coarsely chopped, or 1/2 teaspoon mint extract
1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1/2 cup cold water
Sweetener equivalent to 1.5 TBS sugar
1 teaspoon inulin/FOS, acacia powder, or other prebiotic powder (optional)
1 1/2 cups your choice of yogurt
Mix all in a blender. If the smoothie is too thin, allow it to set in the freezer for 20-30 minutes before serving.
Wishing you the best in this new season. Thank you for reading!
RSS Feed