ALL ABOUT GREEN TEA

MAGGIE O'MEARA

Green tea has been a popular trend as of late for its promises of health benefits. And it’s true- green tea is a healthy, sweet, and earthy drink loaded with antioxidants! It contains powerful flavonoids, which are even stronger than vitamin C and E. These antioxidants prevent damage to cells and is associated with reduced risk of a cancer, cardiovascular disease, and neurodegenerative disorders. Green tea can also help with weight loss due to its mixture of caffeine and catechins which enhances metabolism and processing fat. One country that has been enjoying the benefits of green tea for centuries is Japan. It is the most consumed beverage and is a custom interwoven in Japanese culture. Green tea is a way of life and embodiment of Japanese hospitality.

There are various types of green tea and each kind has its own flavor. Whether you enjoy green tea hot, iced, or with milk, you will still reap from the health benefits. However, make sure to not add too much sugar your green tea because it will diminish it’s benefits. Instead, add citrus such as lemon to your green tea for added flavor. The vitamin C in lemon helps your body absorb antioxidants as well! A piece of advice that we can take from the Japanese is their belief that good water yields good rice as well as good tea. Having good quality water will make for a greater tasting green tea. Below is a super simple and quick green tea recipe that you can make anytime:

Vanilla Coconut Milk Matcha Lattes.

Ingredients:

• 1 teaspoon of matcha
• 8 ounces of coconut milk (or almond, oat, macadamia, dairy, etc.)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 Tbs coconut butter (optional)
• Directions:

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk vigorously until the powder has dissolved and the milk is frothy. Pour into a cup and enjoy!