What green tea is the best for energy, antioxidants and heart health?

Matcha is a finely ground powder of green tea leaves with a high caffeine content, while Hojicha is a roasted green tea with less caffeine. Although the two offer health benefits, Matcha may contain more compounds and antioxidants to strengthen energy.

Which one has more caffeine?

Hojicha’s leaves are roasted at high temperature, considerably reducing their caffeine content.

Matcha has many more caffeine and therefore offers greater increase in energy, said Lauri Wright, PHD, RDN, director of nutritional programs and associate professor at the USF College of Public Health.

Caffeine content:
– Hojicha: 8 mg caffeine per cup of 12 oz
– Matcha: 38 to 178 mg of caffeine per cup of 12 oz

“Matcha contains caffeine with L -Théanine – a combination known for promoting alert and concentrated energy with less tremor,” said Wright.

L-Théanine is an amino acid that has proven to reduce stress and anxiety, helping to minimize the nervous effects that are often associated with caffeine.

Although Hojicha does not provide the same energizing effects as Matcha, some research suggests that it can offer anti-fatty properties.

“Hojicha is a good option for those who are sensitive to caffeine,” said Manoj Sharma, PHD, public health teacher at the University of Nevada, in Las Vegas.

Which one has more antioxidants and health health benefits?

Some studies suggest that matcha can benefit heart health By lowering the LDL (bad cholesterol), by reducing atherosclerosis (plaques formation) and by reducing high blood pressure. This is partly due to its high antioxidant content.

A meta-analysis has revealed that antioxidants called catechins, which are in green tea, help lower blood pressure and LDL cholesterol levels.

Matcha is also rich in rutin, another antioxidant that can benefit heart health.

Although the two teas contain antioxidants, the roasting process reduces the content of these compounds in Hojicha.

Sharma said the two drinks can also provide anticancer, anti-inflammatory, weight management and cognitive advantages. However, matcha is supposed to be more beneficial in these areas. Additional research is also necessary to further explore these potential advantages.

What is right for you?

What Japanese green tea suits you depends on caffeine tolerance, preference and your day of the day.

If you are looking for an energy boost associated with maximum health benefits, Matcha is a good choice. But if it is later in the day and you are trying to relax or if you are sensitive to caffeine, Hojicha may be the best choice.

Or you can drink both to maximize the advantages.

“Take advantage of Matcha early during the day for its energy and antioxidant protection,” said Wright, “then spend Hojicha in the evening for his calm and relaxing effect.”