How to increase your energy levels with one simple ingredient (and no, it's not coffee!)

Living in the city can be exhausting, the daily commute can take up a huge chunk of your day and it often feels like you are running from one coffee shop to another. We know coffee is a real addiction but what if we told you there was an alternative?

Say hello to matcha green tea.

Matcha is one of the healthiest beverages in the world. Not only is it delicious and packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, but the essential nutrients in matcha green tea powder help to boost your immune system, increase your energy levels and improve your overall health.

Read on to find five ways in which this incredible ingredient can help to improve your day.

1. Matcha Boosts Energy Levels

Matcha green tea powder is a natural energy enhancer due to its caffeine content. However unlike coffee, matcha releases its caffeine slowly, giving you a sustainable boost to your energy levels. Matcha also contains high levels of the amino acid L-Theanine which helps with the slow release of caffeine, avoiding sleep disruption or an afternoon slump.

Additionally, the L-Theanine in matcha boosts the production of Alpha Waves, Dopamine and Serotonin in the brain which delivers a powerful boost to concentration, memory and mood.

Just by drinking 2-3 cups of matcha a day you can flood your body with amazing health benefits and have a long-lasting energy boost!

1. Matcha Fights The Flu & Protects Your Immune System

Matcha green tea powder is incredibly effective at boosting the immune system due to it’s high antioxidant content, particularly Epigallocatechin Gallate (EGCG). This powerful ingredient boosts your body’s production of T-Cells which helps to reduce inflammation and fight pathogens. So one cup of matcha green tea everyday can help boost your immune system, and equip you to take on the bitter colds in the Winter season!

2. Matcha Naturally Detoxifies The Body

Matcha is known for its bright green colour, and this comes from its chlorophyll content. This green machine helps to detoxify the body from harmful chemicals, toxins and heavy metals. The result is a detox free body which is better equipped to fight off pathogens, and helps support your immune system - leaving you feeling healthier in general.

3. Matcha Green Tea Powder Kills Bacteria

As well as all the other powerful ingredients, matcha green tea powder contains a high level of both flavonoids and antioxidants which form an antibacterial defence force! These flavonoids eliminate bad breath by killing off bacteria from viruses and infections, while the flavonoids are perfect for soothing a sore throat!

4. Matcha Green Tea Powder Reduces Inflammation

Matcha green tea powder contains the active ingredient EGCG, this powerful antioxidant helps to reduce inflammation and arthritis pain by working to stop the production of certain inflammatory chemicals in the body. Matcha is different to standard green tea as it contains a much higher level of EGCG, making it the perfect immune system boosting drink.

So what are you waiting for?

Pop the kettle on and whip up a delicious green cup of goodness! With these incredible health benefits, it is an easy way to help fight the toxins we are exposed to during city life. And with its energy-boosting capabilities, it will help us to power through the morning commute!

Erin Young is a health food writer & tea expert. She owns 2 tea companies; Evergreen Matcha in the Usa & Zen Green Matcha Tea in Australia.