For more than a decade, Calli has been speaking at special events, store demos, and matcha marketing campaigns. Having spoken with at least 40,000 people, many of whom drink a good quality matcha almost every day, one thing she finds in common with their stories is that after incorporating matcha into their daily routines, they feel less mental stress, are better able to cope, relax a little and stay more focused after drinking matcha tea. That is because matcha contains L-theanine.
Why is L-theanine So Important?
L-theanine is an amino acid that increases alpha waves in the brain. It makes us feel calm but still focused and alert. Studies show that increased alpha waves improve overall cognition, retention and recall while also reducing emotional and mental stress.
L-theanine is found exclusively in tea — and most abundantly in matcha tea. But not all matcha is created equal. Low-quality matcha has 60 – 80% less L-theanine than high-quality, ceremonial-grade matcha. This happens as tea leaves mature over the summer and as a result of poor production methods.
Studies into L-theanine’s capacity to reduce stress number in the thousands. It’s well documented to increase dopamine levels in the brain, creating that sense of well-being and even happiness. With today’s high mental stress lifestyles, a good quality matcha packed with L-theanine could help us all live healthier, happier lives.
Do yourself a favour by including at least one (1) cup of high-quality matcha tea in your daily routine. And do not forget your loved ones. Even older children and teens can suffer stress-related anxiety.
Stress in Teens
John Hopkins Childrens Hospital reports that “the teenage years are ripe with new experiences, opportunities and challenges. Also during this time, teenagers’ brains are changing, and they want more independence and autonomy. During this time, there are also many stressors. For example, teenagers might worry about starting secondary school, looking a particular way, fitting in with friends, final examinations/schoolwork, performing in plays at school or going to school formals. Now more than ever, teenagers have even more worries with political affairs, the pandemic, not to mention social media.”
Adding Matcha to Your Teens Routine
The My Matcha Life recipe section has an incredible selection of ways to prepare and/or add matcha to hot and cold beverages, toss into salads, and incorporate into pasta and entre dishes!
Here is a delicious smoothie that your teen can incorporate into their morning routine!
Green smoothies are all the rage these days—for good reason. They are easy to make and an excellent way to sneak in some healthy greens without having to eat a salad. If you’ve always wanted to try a green smoothie but were scared of the thought of drinking a spinach smoothie, this Matcha Green Smoothie will be loved at first sip.
Pro tip: If you want a thicker, creamier smoothie, use a frozen banana. Be sure to peel the banana before you freeze it.
Ingredients
1 tsp. Barista’s Matcha Tea
1 banana (option: freeze peeled banana chunks overnight)
1 orange, peeled
2 cups spinach
2 cups almond, soy, coconut or regular milk
Directions
1. Combine spinach and milk first; blend until smooth.
2. Add fruit and blend again until smooth.
3. Add matcha and blend 10 more seconds.
Tip: use less milk for a thicker smoothie.
Click here for more healthy, nutritious, and stress-reducing matcha smoothie recipes!