For many, coffee is the go-to beverage to kickstart the day. However, recent studies and reports have highlighted potential health concerns associated with coffee, particularly related to the toxins it may contain. If you're looking for a healthier alternative, matcha might be the perfect solution. Let's dive into why you should consider swapping your coffee for matcha and how matcha green tea can benefit your health.
The dark side of coffee | hidden toxins in coffee
While coffee has its benefits, like providing a quick energy boost and being rich in antioxidants, it's not without its downsides. One of the primary concerns is the presence of harmful chemicals and toxins.
Acrylamide in coffee
Acrylamide is a chemical compound that forms in coffee beans during the roasting process (it’s also found in other foods cooked at high temperatures like fried potatoes and baked goods.) Acrylamide affects the nervous and reproductive systems. When exposed to high concentrations of acrylamide, male rats lose the ability to produce offspring. While it’s highly unlikely that your coffee beans contain large amounts of acrylamide, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classifies acrylamide as a "probable human carcinogen."
Acrylamide is found in traditional coffee beans & instant coffee and studies say that manufacturers should be “obliged to reduce such levels in these products.”
The risk to humans at the levels found in food is still being studied but the presence of acrylamide in coffee is certainly concerning.
Pesticides and mycotoxins in coffee
Coffee crops are often treated with pesticides to protect against pests and diseases.
Unfortunately, these pesticides can leave residue on the coffee beans, which may end up in your cup. Even after the coffee beans are roasted at up to 260 degrees celsius, the pesticides can still remain on the beans!
Coffee beans can also be contaminated with mycotoxins, toxic substances produced by certain molds. Mycotoxins like ochratoxin A, can cause kidney damage and have been linked to cancer. Although the levels of mycotoxins in coffee are generally low, chronic exposure over time could pose serious health risks.
Chemicals in decaf coffee
If you think switching to decaf is a safer option, think again.
The decaffeination process often involves the use of solvents like methylene chloride and ethyl acetate, which can leave residues in the coffee. Methylene chloride, in particular, is a chemical used in paint strippers and has been associated with serious health risks, including cancer and liver damage.
Although the amounts left in decaf coffee are usually minimal, the potential health implications of any amount of chemicals in your coffee shouldn’t be ignored.
Why Matcha Instead of Coffee?
Ok, so you’ve read enough about the health risks associated with coffee to consider switching from coffee to matcha - great! Why else should you switch? Here's why matcha stands out as a superior choice for your daily beverage.
Matcha is rich in antioxidants
Matcha is packed with antioxidants, particularly catechins, which are known for their powerful health benefits. The most potent catechin in matcha is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been extensively studied for its cancer-fighting properties. According to studies, EGCG can inhibit the growth of cancer cells and reduce the risk of certain types of cancer.
Antioxidants are also known for preventing and reducing the symptoms of sickness, helping you lose weight, lowering bad cholesterol and helping you stay healthy on a daily basis.
Matcha is a natural detoxifier
Matcha contains high levels of chlorophyll, which gives it its vibrant green color. Chlorophyll is known for its detoxifying properties, helping to remove heavy metals and chemical toxins from the body. Drinking matcha regularly can support your body’s natural detoxification processes, keeping you healthier in the long run.
Matcha is lower in caffeine & higher in focus
Matcha does contain caffeine, but in lower amounts than coffee. What makes matcha unique is the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes relaxation and reduces stress without causing drowsiness. The combination of caffeine and L-theanine in matcha provides a balanced energy boost and enhanced focus, without the jittery side effects often associated with coffee. Studies show that L-theanine and caffeine together can improve cognitive performance, alertness and reaction times.
Matcha has oral health benefits
Matcha is beneficial for oral health due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Catechins in matcha can inhibit the growth of bacteria responsible for dental plaque and gum disease. Drinking matcha regularly and using matcha mouthwash can help reduce the risk of cavities, gum disease and promote healthier gums.
The Bottom Line
Switching from coffee to matcha can be a healthier choice for your overall well-being. While coffee has its merits, the potential risks associated with its toxins cannot be ignored. Matcha, on the other hand, offers a wealth of health benefits, from its rich antioxidant content to its detoxifying and oral health properties.
Embrace the vibrant green goodness of matcha and enjoy a cleaner, healthier alternative to your daily cup of coffee. Your body will thank you for it.
Disclaimer: These statements in this blog post have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice. It's essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes.
Resources:
Mojska, H., & Gielecińska, I. (2013). Studies of acrylamide level in coffee and coffee substitutes: influence of raw material and manufacturing conditions. Roczniki Panstwowego Zakladu Higieny, 64(3), 173–181.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24325083/
Chacko, S. M., Thambi, P. T., Kuttan, R., & Nishigaki, I. (2010). Beneficial effects of green tea: a literature review. Chinese medicine, 5, 13. https://doi.org/10.1186/1749-8546-5-13
Merhi, A., Kordahi, R., & Hassan, H. F. (2022). A review on the pesticides in coffee: Usage, health effects, detection, and mitigation. Frontiers in public health, 10, 1004570. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2022.1004570
Einöther, S. J., & Martens, V. E. (2013). Acute effects of tea consumption on attention and mood. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 98(6 Suppl), 1700S–1708S. https://doi.org/10.3945/ajcn.113.058248
Hirasawa, M., Takada, K., Makimura, M., & Otake, S. (2002). Improvement of periodontal status by green tea catechin using a local delivery system: a clinical pilot study. Journal of periodontal research, 37(6), 433–438. https://doi.org/10.1034/j.1600-0765.2002.01640.x
Mallenbaum, Carly. “Decaf Coffee: Why Some Groups Are Concerned about It.” Axios, www.axios.com/2024/05/22/decaf-coffee-chemicals-bad-for-you.
