What do doctors say about drinking matcha latte every day?

Recently, matcha latte has become one of the "hot trend" drinks among young people, especially office workers and students. So, is drinking matcha latte every day good for your health?

Matcha latte, with its refreshing green color, subtly sweet taste, and ease of drinking, along with numerous accolades for its health benefits, has become an indispensable part of many people's daily routines, replacing other beverages. Some even drink 2-3 cups a day. But is consuming this drink in large quantities good for your health?

Below is an explanation from Dr. Chu Thi Dung, University Medical Center of Ho Chi Minh City - Branch 3, which will help you understand the nature of this beverage from both a scientific and traditional medicine perspective.

What is matcha, and why is it so popular?

Matcha is a finely ground green tea powder made from young Japanese tea leaves, grown in shaded conditions to increase the chlorophyll and L-theanine content. Unlike regular green tea, which is only brewed, when drinking matcha, you consume the entire tea leaf, resulting in a higher concentration of bioactive compounds.

Some of the main components in matcha include:

Caffeine : Promotes alertness and focus, but can also cause insomnia or restlessness.

L-theanine : An amino acid that can calm the nervous system, balancing the stimulating effects of caffeine.

Catechins (EGCG): Powerful antioxidants, support cardiovascular health, fight aging, and aid in fat metabolism.

Therefore, matcha is often considered a "superfood," helping to fight aging, reduce stress, and support weight loss.

"Matcha latte is a combination of matcha powder and milk (fresh milk, plant-based milk, condensed milk), often sweetened with sugar or syrup to make it easier to drink. Its appeal lies in its eye-catching color, pleasant taste, and refreshing sensation. However, if not consumed in moderation, matcha latte can cause unpredictable health consequences," shared Dr. Dung.

Matcha latte is a combination of matcha powder and milk, with an eye-catching color and delicious flavor.

PHOTO: LE CAM

Is drinking matcha latte every day beneficial or harmful?

Matcha has a relatively high caffeine content. Each matcha latte typically contains about 2g of matcha, providing approximately 60-80mg of caffeine, equivalent to half a cup of coffee. If you drink 2-3 cups a day, you could consume over 150-200mg of caffeine, causing insomnia, rapid heartbeat, and anxiety, especially in sensitive individuals.

Sugar and calories are hidden behind that subtle sweetness. Many cafes use condensed milk, sugar syrup, or sweetened milk to make matcha lattes. On average, one cup can contain 15-25g of sugar, equivalent to 3-5 teaspoons, exceeding the WHO's recommended daily sugar intake.

Affects iron absorption. EGCG and catechins in matcha inhibit the absorption of non-heme iron (from plants). People at risk of iron-deficiency anemia (especially young women and vegetarians) should limit their consumption of matcha close to mealtimes or too frequently.

Unknown origins can be harmful. Some cheap, unverified matcha may contain heavy metals or pesticide residues, affecting the liver and kidneys if consumed long-term.

Whether it's beneficial or harmful depends on how it's used.

According to Doctor Dung, modern medicine states that matcha is a source of antioxidants, but the benefits are only achieved when used in the correct dosage and combined with a healthy diet. Abuse can do more harm than good.

According to traditional medicine, green tea is classified as a cooling and diuretic tea that can help cool the liver, improve digestion, and detoxify the body. However, the cooling properties of matcha are not suitable for people with weak or cold spleen and stomach, as it can easily cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and cold hands and feet if consumed in large quantities or on an empty stomach.

How to use matcha latte safely and scientifically.

Drink only one cup per day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon. Choose pure matcha that is certified safe, free of artificial colors and impurities. Use unsweetened milk or low-sugar plant-based milk, and limit added sugar or syrup. Do not drink on an empty stomach or right before bedtime. People with stomach problems, anemia, sleep disorders, and pregnant women should consult a doctor before regular consumption.

"Matcha latte is neither a 'miracle cure' nor a 'bad guy.' If used correctly, it's still a good option to keep you alert and provide antioxidants," shared Dr. Dung.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/uong-matcha-latte-moi-ngay-bac-si-noi-gi-185250429104601561.htm