Feeling bloated after a big meal can be highly uncomfortable and even painful. While some bloating can be entirely normal, often caused by overeating, it doesn’t mean you have to live in discomfort. You also don’t need to rely on expensive teas or supplements to find relief. If your kidneys and liver are functioning correctly, your body can naturally “cleanse” itself. However, there are simple ways to soothe your stomach after indulging in a large meal.
One such remedy is matcha, a type of powdered green tea known for its numerous health benefits. Matcha can help aid in digestion and might just be your new go-to remedy for post-meal bloating. Packed with gentle detoxifying properties and natural compounds that support digestion, matcha can offer a simple, natural way to feel more comfortable after eating.
Read more about why you don’t need to do a detox.
What is bloating?
Bloating occurs when air or gas becomes trapped in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, leading to a belly that may feel swollen, tight, or full. Your tummy can also look distended and feel hard and even painful. Bloating is an extremely common GI complaint and isn’t usually tied to an underlying disease (although it can be) but rather to normal digestion processes.
In addition to feeling swollen or full, you may also experience gas, tummy gurgles, frequent burps, hiccups, or pain.
The most common cause of bloating is gas. When we eat or drink, we all swallow small amounts of air (some people more than others). While burping can release some of this air, slow digestion can cause gas to accumulate, resulting in bloating. Gas can also form when undigested food lingers in the digestive tract.
Overeating is another common trigger for bloating. Eating too much at once can cause the stomach to stretch to accommodate the extra volume, which slows digestion and increases gas production.
Learn more about yoga for constipation relief.
So, how can matcha help after a big meal?
Keep reading to discover how matcha can relieve bloating and promote better digestion.
Digestive benefits of matcha:
Helps you stay hydrated
Proper hydration is crucial for digestion. Water aids in preventing constipation (another common cause of bloating) and helps flush out excess sodium and toxins, all essential for reducing and preventing bloating.
Even if your stomach feels full, being dehydrated- especially after eating a large meal- can worsen bloating. We get it, though- sometimes plain water just isn’t appealing. Matcha can be a helpful and flavorful way to stay hydrated without the added sugars often found in juices or sodas.
Pro Tip: Wait at least 30-60 minutes to drink large amounts of water or tea after a big meal to ensure that digestive juices can get to work.
Rich in catechins
Matcha green tea is loaded with catechins, a type of antioxidant that may help combat inflammation in the GI tract. While research is still emerging, some studies suggest that catechins can help soothe digestive discomfort by fighting free radical damage in the gut. This makes matcha an excellent post-meal choice to ease bloating.
Gentle detoxification
Matcha gets its rich green hue from its high chlorophyll content, a compound known for its detoxifying properties. Although more research is still needed, chlorophyll may help support the body’s natural ability to remove toxins, which can contribute to sluggish digestion and bloating. By supporting the body’s natural detoxification systems, matcha can help reduce feeling overly heavy and full after a meal.
Natural diuretic
Thanks to its caffeine and antioxidant content, matcha also has mild diuretic effects, which can help reduce water retention and puffiness. Unlike other diuretic options, matcha gently supports the body’s natural process without the risk of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. This can be especially beneficial after a salty meal that may cause bloating due to fluid retention.
How to use matcha for bloating relief
Make a cup of matcha about 30 minutes to an hour after a meal to support digestion. This allows your body to begin digesting while matcha’s natural compounds assist in calming your stomach and reducing bloat.
Simple preparation ideas:
- Traditional tea: Whisk 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with hot water (about 175 F) until frothy. Sip slowly and enjoy.
- With aged black ginger: Add a pinch of aged black ginger or fresh ginger slices to your matcha for an extra digestive boost. Ginger is a well-known natural remedy for reducing bloating and soothing the stomach!
- Iced matcha: Mix 1 teaspoon of matcha powder with cold water, ice and a splash of pineapple juice. The bromelain in pineapple can also help to combat bloating.
Check out our matcha and pineapple juice recipe here.
Does matcha contain caffeine?
Yes! Matcha does contain caffeine, although not as much as a cup of coffee does. On average, a cup of matcha will contain anywhere from 45-75 mg of caffeine. One thing that makes matcha so unique is that while it does contain caffeine, it also contains the amino acid l-theanine. L-theanine has a relaxing effect on the body and can counteract some of the adverse side effects of caffeine, such as jitteriness or feeling anxious. Matcha tends to provide a cleaner energy— allowing you to feel calm yet alert.
Since matcha does contain caffeine, however, it may be best to avoid consuming it after 2 p.m. to avoid sleep interruption. For late-night bloating relief, consider aged black ginger tea or fermented turmeric powder as alternatives.
Bottom line: Matcha can aid digestion
Drinking matcha after a big meal may help your body flush out extra toxins, keep you hydrated, and support digestion. With its natural diuretic properties, gentle detoxifying effects, and rich antioxidant content, matcha may also help regulate digestion and prevent bloating in the first place.
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:
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