The Truth About Matcha   

• In recent years, matcha, a bright green powdered tea from Japan, has become one of the world’s most popular drinks and flavors. But what exactly is matcha, and is it really as healthy as people say? Matcha comes from the same plant as regular green tea, Camellia sinensis, but the way it’s grown and processed makes it unique. Several weeks before harvest, tea farmers cover the plants to limit exposure to sunlight. This shading boosts chlorophyll and amino acid production, resulting in leaves with a deeper green color and richer flavor. After harvesting, the highest-quality leaves are steamed, dried, and ground into a fine powder using traditional stone mills. Because you consume the whole tea leaf when drinking matcha, you take in higher concentrations of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These nutrients can help protect cells, support heart health, and raise concentration. Matcha also contains high levels of L-theanine, an amino acid that promotes calm alertness and helps balance caffeine’s effects. Experts still emphasize moderation, especially when matcha is sweetened. Even so, matcha remains a drink that blends tradition, wellness, and flavor in every sip. Nancy Ahmed Dagba For The Junior Times junior/1764139498/1678407625