4 Simple Ways to Make Your Matcha Work Harder for You

Blog contribution by Julia Gibson, CNP.

If you're consuming matcha daily, you're already getting an amazing amount of nutrients and health benefits from this magical vibrant green powder. But with just a few tweaks and additions to your morning beverage, you can make sure you're getting the most possible out of your daily matcha ritual. Here are my favourite ways to make your matcha work harder for you:

Add a Fat

Matcha is already a gentler way to get caffeinated, but by adding a healthy source of fat, you're slowing down the rate of absorption even more for a slow and calm caffeine release without the crash. Fat slows down digestion and the absorption of other foods, so it will help balance your blood sugar levels especially if you're adding a sweetener to your matcha. Try using a higher fat milk like coconut or cashew, or blend your matcha with a spoonful of coconut butter, coconut oil, or your favourite nut/seed butter like tahini. 

Include Protein

If you're extra sensitive to caffeine, then it's best to avoid having it on an empty stomach. But if you're like me, and want to enjoy your matcha first thing before anything else, then adding a protein source is the way to go! Protein will help you feel satiated and works similarly to a fat source by balancing your blood sugar and providing you with calm long-lasting energy. I like using collagen because it's flavourless and mixes really well in hot beverages, but if you're vegan, definitely try blending a spoonful of your favourite plant-based protein powder into your matcha.

Reach for a Natural Sweetener

Not only do natural sweeteners give more depth and complexity when it comes to flavour, but they can also provide a plethora of nutrients. Raw honey is jam packed with antioxidants, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Pure maple syrup is high in antioxidants and numerous minerals like zinc, magnesium and potassium. And dates are an amazing source of fibre, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. If you're using dates, just use a high-powered blender to blend them into your matcha!

Boost it with Adaptogens

When I'm really looking to get the most out of my morning matcha, I reach for adaptogens to further support my health. Adaptogens are a group of botanicals and mushrooms that essentially adapt to our bodies' needs and support our ability to handle different stressors. They're incredibly diverse and each one has numerous benefits; think ashwagandha or reishi mushroom for stress-relieving, cordyceps or maca for extra energy, and chaga or astragalus for immune support.. just to name a few! You can either use them in powder form or whisk them right into your matcha, or use a tincture to add a few drops of to your finished matcha. 

So when you're ready to take your daily matcha to the next level, give one or a few of these a go, play around with different combinations, and experience just how good your morning matcha can make you feel!