Cardiologist calls matcha ‘science in a cup', shares 5 benefits of consuming it; we verify
Cardiologist and content creator Dr Alok Chopra took to Instagram to sing praises of this vibrant green powder. 'Matcha is not just a vibe; it is science in a cup,' he wrote, sharing five reasons why adding matcha to your routine may be a good idea. According to him, matcha may support calm focus, increase fat burn, detoxify the body, lift your mood, and provide an antioxidant boost. 'L-theanine fuels alertness without the crash… Matcha boosts metabolism and cellular energy… Chlorophyll helps flush out toxins… Caffeine plus L-theanine leads to focused and stress-free energy… [and] 137 more EGCG than regular green tea,' Dr Chopra explained.
Dr Raj Kumar, senior consultant, Non-invasive Cardiology at PSRI Hospital, tells indianexpress.com, 'Each of these benefits has some scientific grounding, though the strength of evidence varies. Calm focus primarily comes from L-theanine, an amino acid found in matcha that promotes relaxation without inducing drowsiness. It enhances alpha brain waves and, when combined with caffeine (also present in matcha), supports alertness with reduced anxiety, a finding supported by several clinical studies. Fat burn is linked to EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate), a catechin that can mildly increase metabolism and fat oxidation, especially when combined with exercise.'
He asserts, 'However, its impact is modest and not a substitute for diet or activity. Detox support is more anecdotal; while matcha contains chlorophyll, which may help eliminate certain toxins, robust scientific evidence in humans is limited. Mood lift is associated with the synergy of L-theanine and caffeine, which can improve mood, alertness, and temporarily reduce fatigue. Finally, antioxidant boost is perhaps the most supported claim. Matcha is rich in catechins, especially EGCG, which has potent antioxidant activity that helps neutralize harmful free radicals in the body.'
A post shared by Alok Chopra (@dralokchopra)
'The difference in the quantity of EGCG is significant,' notes Dr Kumar, adding that EGCG is the most bioactive catechin in green tea, and having 137 times more means matcha can offer a much more potent antioxidant punch. However, context matters. 'That statistic refers to specific laboratory comparisons and may not reflect all commercial teas. In practical terms, one cup of matcha can provide a similar or greater benefit than multiple cups of regular green tea. If someone is seeking more concentrated antioxidant benefits or metabolic support, switching to matcha could be beneficial. That said, matcha also contains more caffeine, so moderation is essential, especially for those sensitive to stimulants,' stresses the doctor.
The synergy between caffeine and L-theanine is unique. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system, increasing alertness and energy, but it can also lead to jitters and anxiety. L-theanine, on the other hand, promotes calmness by increasing GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, and dopamine levels.
'When consumed together, as in matcha, L-theanine moderates the overstimulation caused by caffeine, resulting in a smoother, more sustained energy and focus often without the crash or anxiety linked with coffee or energy drinks. This combination is well-documented and one of the reasons matcha is favored by those looking for mental clarity without nervousness,' concludes Dr Kumar.
DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Newborn dies after mother uses 'Instagram-approved' waterbirth; How safe is the ‘freebirth' method?
In a heartbreaking case in Victoria, Australia, a newborn nicknamed 'Baby E' tragically died hours after being born in a home birthing pool rented via an Instagram influencer promoting 'freebirths', births without medical or midwife assistance. The coroner concluded the death might have been preventable with proper antenatal care or hospital birth support. But what does science say about water births in general? Are birthing pools always dangerous, or is the risk tied to how and where they are used? The tragic death of Baby E: The case that sparked concern In December 2022, Baby E was born at home, unsupported by any medical professional. The labor was prolonged, and the mother couldn't deliver the placenta until the next morning. When the baby was later found unresponsive and pale, paramedics tried CPR but could not revive her. A forensic pathologist determined the cause was complications from the delayed delivery, complications that, in a hospital or with proper midwife support, likely would have been prevented. The coroner stressed that this outcome might have been avoided with professional medical assistance. What is ' freebirth '? Freebirth, also known as unassisted birth, refers to the deliberate decision to give birth at home or elsewhere without the presence of a healthcare professional, such as a midwife or doctor. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Why is everyone rushing to get their hands on this new air cooler? News of the Discovery Undo It is a planned home birth where the birthing person chooses not to have any medical assistance or monitoring during labor and delivery. Navigating the risks: The 'to-do' list Freebirths, births without any medical or midwifery oversight, are not the same as planned home births with professional support. If considering freebirth, prioritize thorough preparation, including researching potential risks and complications, creating a detailed emergency plan, and ensuring access to immediate medical care if needed. Open communication with healthcare providers, even if you plan to freebirth, is crucial for addressing individual risk factors and making informed decisions. In the case of going ahead with the plan of freebirth, consulting resources like antenatal classes and seeking information from midwives or other healthcare professionals is recommended. Furthermore, one should talk to your healthcare provider about potential complications that might require hospital transfer and develop a clear plan for how to manage these situations. Additionally, there must be a detailed emergency plan in place that outlines how to recognize and respond to potential complications, including how to transport yourself to a hospital and what support is available in the area. In Baby E's case, there was no antenatal education, monitoring, or readiness to escalate to a hospital during complications. The coroner emphasized that promotional materials for water births don't apply to unsupervised, home-based situations. What does research say about freebirths For low-risk pregnancies, research offers reassuring news under proper medical control: A UK study published in The Guardian of over 73,000 births found no higher risks in water births supported by NHS midwives. Complication and mortality rates were similar to those of land births. A large-scale US and birth-center study, published in the British Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology , of 35,060 matched pregnancies found water births led to fewer maternal hemorrhages and hospital visits, with no increase in newborn death rates, when supervised by skilled midwives. Minor risks like umbilical cord issues were noted but managed effectively. These findings suggest water births can be safe under well-supported, low-risk, and medically supervised conditions. What do professionals say about freebirths Despite these positive findings (and the massive online popularity), major medical bodies like the ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists) urge caution. What are the potential dangers associated with waterbirth? Umbilical cord avulsion: Cord snapping might happen when the baby is lifted quickly, though rare and usually manageable. Infection risk: Particularly from waterborne bacteria like Legionella , especially if the pool isn't properly cleaned or contains recirculating water. Water aspiration or respiratory complications: In compromised newborns, the 'diving reflex' may not protect against full inhalation, which can lead to respiratory distress. ACOG's guidelines note that while water immersion during early labor may offer benefits like pain relief, there's insufficient evidence regarding safety during actual delivery underwater (second stage of labor). Concerns include infection risks, water aspiration, and cord avulsion, all of which demand strict protocols and oversight. Ultimately, the difference between safe and unsafe water birth often lies in the planning and professional support. A planned home birth with a skilled midwife, who can monitor mother and baby and transfer to the hospital if needed, carries far lower risk than unassisted, influencer-driven births. This article is for informational purposes only and does not provide medical advice. Birthing methods, including water births, carry potential risks and should always be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. Readers should not base medical decisions solely on this article and are encouraged to seek guidance from licensed medical providers. Expanded newborn screening could save premature infants' lives, finds study
Hindustan Times
2 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Are you struggling with back pain? Try these 5 easy stretches before bed to relax your tensed back
Do you frequently struggle with back pain? Whether it's slouching at work all day, bending your neck to scroll on your phone, or curling up awkwardly to sleep, your back suffers the brunt of poor posture all day. And this is not where it ends, the tense, stiff back only makes falling asleep harder. But there are some ways you can help improve back pain. Back pain can be improved with the help of simple exercises.(Shutterstock) ALSO READ: Orthopedic surgeon warns 'your back pain won't go away if you don't get rid of these 4 habits': Drinking tea with sugar Michael Ꭰean, a fitness coach who frequently shares fitness tips with his community on Instagram, in an August 4th post, revealed top stretches that help aid back pain. Stretches that help improve back pain Michael listed out 5 stretches that you can try to help relax your body better before bedtime: 1. Open and close legs: If you open your legs and swing them 20 times before bed like this, your lower back will relax. 2. Heel on toe swing: If you can put your heels on your toes and swing 20 times, your back pain will be gone. 3. Leg cross swing: If you cross one leg over the other and swing twenty times, your back will thank you 4. 90-90 hip opener: If you bend your legs 90 degrees and swing 20 times like this, your hips will open up 5. Figure-4 swing: If you rest one leg over the other knee and swing 20 times like this back pain will vanish Who is at risk of back pain While exercises and stretching help manage the pain better, to treat it at the root, you will need to seek medical help. But often, people become mentally desensitised to back pain and ignore it. This can lead to serious health risks if you don't get timely medical attention. In an earlier interview with HT Lifestyle on June 26, Dr Amogh Zawar, consultant, spine surgery, KIMS Hospitals Thane, shared that there is often a common habit to ignore back pain, unless it becomes severe. He further highlighted vulnerable groups and said, 'Adolescents, particularly athletic ones, should be extra careful when lifting and/or working out with weights, as this can inhibit their spinal growth until they reach 18 years. On the other hand, sedentary workers should avoid spinal disorders with a few ergonomic tips (e.g., using a chair with back and arm support, sitting without prolonged use of a chair, adjusting positions while sitting, using a desktop instead of a laptop)' To prevent a sedentary lifestyle and lower back pain risks, he suggested walking 30 to 45 minutes every day. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
Hindustan Times
4 hours ago
- Hindustan Times
Health coach shares 6 healthy habits that transformed her body, health, mindset: How to increase your daily calorie burn
Luisana Carrero is a weight loss and nutrition coach who keeps sharing helpful insights related to fat loss and healthy diet on her Instagram profile. Known for her drastic transformation where she dropped 12 kilos in just 4 months, the weight loss coach's social media profile is replete with diet and workout hacks for faster fat loss. On August 10, Luisana shared a list of healthy habits that helped transform her body, overall health and her perspective. Also read | Fat loss coach shares 5 morning habits that support weight loss: Drinking lemon water, stretching and more Walking helps in increasing your daily calorie burn.(Unsplash) 1. Walk more, your future self will thank you: Walking is underrated. It's one of the easiest ways to increase your daily calorie burn, improve digestion, and clear your mind. Multiple short walks work just as well if you don't have time for long walks. 2. Build your meals like this: protein + fibre + healthy fats Protein is great but adding fibre and healthy fats is a game changer for steady energy and better body composition. 3. You don't need 1-2 hours workouts to get incredible results: Short, focused strength workouts (even 25–35 mins) done consistently will build muscle, increase metabolism, and reshape your body, but only when paired with good nutrition. 4. Track for a season, not forever: Even 4–6 weeks of tracking macros or measuring portions can teach you exactly how much to eat for your goals. Once you understand portions, you can eat intuitively without guesswork. Also read | Fitness coach says 'do these 7 things every day and there's no way you won't lose weight' 5. Get outside daily: Morning sunlight is linked to better mood, more energy, improved sleep. Just 10–15 mins can make a huge difference in how you feel. 6. Make healthy choices the easy choices: You'll naturally make better choices if your environment supports your goals. Keep lean proteins, fruits, veggies, and whole grains easily available 'These simple (but powerful) habits helped me lose 28 lbs in 4 months and keep it off for good and I hope they can help you too. Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.
