When you love it, matcha tea can become so addictive that you could drink it all day long! What is more, the caffeine in this green powder gives us an energy boost. But should you stop drinking it at the end of the day to get to sleep? We have the answer.
Does matcha tea keep you awake?
It depends on the individual! As with other teas or coffee, the impact of caffeine (or theine, as they are the same molecule) on sleep varies according to each person’s sensitivity.
Why can matcha tea disrupt some people’s sleep?
If some people struggle to get to sleep, it is because of the caffeine present in tea leaves. Even when they are ground and turned into matcha green tea powder, the caffeine is still there. It is released on contact with hot water. Acting as a natural insecticide in plants (tea plants, cocoa trees, coffee plants, etc.), caffeine fortunately has more beneficial effects on the human body: it reduces drowsiness and increases concentration.
Why is matcha tea beneficial for some people’s sleep?
Matcha tea contains not only caffeine, but also a whole range of vitamins, antioxidants, trace elements and amino acids… including L-theanine, a molecule known for its relaxing, calming effect. For people suffering from stress and anxiety, the L-theanine in matcha tea may improve sleep quality. As you can see, this green tea powder from Japan has many health benefits!
Why is matcha tea more energising than classic green tea?
Like its Japanese cousins, matcha has stimulating effects. If matcha’s “boost” or “pick-me-up” effect is more intense than that of other teas, this is due to the way it is consumed. When you drink matcha tea, you ingest the whole tea leaf, whereas with other teas you drink only the infusion of the leaves.
Until what time can you drink matcha tea?
Again, this depends on each person’s sensitivity. The precise caffeine content is always uncertain, as it varies from one tea or coffee to another depending on how it is grown and prepared. If you choose a matcha latte, which contains very little matcha tea and plenty of milk, its caffeine concentration will be lower than that of a large bowl of pure matcha tea. Generally speaking, caffeine is estimated to remain active in the body for 8 hours. So, if you are sensitive to caffeine and go to bed at 11 pm, you should stop drinking matcha tea after 3 pm.
What can replace matcha tea before bedtime?
If you find that matcha tea enjoyed in the afternoon disrupts your sleep, make sure you drink it only in the morning. Then, in the afternoon, choose lighter teas with less caffeine, such as classic green tea or white tea. Alternatively, you can opt for 100% caffeine-free infusions, such as rooibos or herbal teas, which are just as conducive to concentration and/or relaxation.
How do you choose quality matcha tea?
First, make sure the green tea powder really comes from Japan. The origin of the tea matters. Next, look at the colour: it should be bright green, not khaki. Organic certification is a major advantage, as it ensures you are drinking quality tea! Finally, the price of tea… Matcha that is too cheap may indicate a lower-quality product. Yes, matcha tea is a premium product! To discover our complete buying guide for choosing quality matcha tea, click here!
At Kusmi, this green tea powder from Japan has already proven itself. To make the most of all its health benefits, we recommend choosing organic matcha. Organic certification guarantees quality tea, free from pesticides and grown with respect for the environment.