Caffeine's impact, fast or sustainable?
Coffee and matcha are two popular choices when the body needs to be alert. An average cup of coffee provides about 95 milligrams of caffeine, which helps quickly suppress adenosine, a sleep-inducing substance in the brain. As a result, coffee brings a clear and almost instant feeling of alertness, suitable for people who need quick alertness to work or exercise.
However, the strong and rapid effects of coffee can also lead to sudden energy decline after a few hours, accompanied by feelings of restlessness or anxiety in people sensitive to caffeine. In addition, coffee is highly acidic, which can cause stomach irritation or acid reflux.
Meanwhile, matcha - finely ground green tea powder, usually contains 40 - 90 mg of caffeine per serving. An important difference is that matcha contains L-theanine, an amino acid that calms the nervous system. L-theanine helps balance the stimulant effects of caffeine, making energy released slower and more stably, causing less "power loss" or nervousness.
Health benefits and appropriate choices
According to Dr. Sohaib Imtiaz, a gastroenterologist working in the US, matcha tends to create a more sustained sense of alertness, and is less anxiety-inducing than coffee thanks to the natural combination of caffeine and L-theanine. He said this is especially helpful for people who are easily stressed or have sensitive stomachs.
In terms of overall benefits, both coffee and matcha support brain and cardiovascular health and can contribute to weight loss goals. Coffee promotes metabolism and can reduce short-term appetite. Matcha is rich in antioxidants, especially catechins, which support the process of burning fat more effectively during exercise.
Finally, there is no absolute "better" choice. Coffee is suitable for people who need fast and strong energy. Matcha is suitable for those who want to maintain long-term concentration, stable energy and few side effects. Experimenting and listening to the body's reactions will help each person find the most suitable drink.
