Is Matcha Good for Weight Loss? And Other Benefits

It's not easy being green, unless, of course, you're a cup of matcha. You've probably seen the vividly-colored beverage on the menu at your favorite cafe, being promoted on social media, or even as a flavor of ice cream. Matcha is having a moment, and many people are drinking it for health, for pleasure, or both.

But what is matcha? Is matcha good for you? And can drinking matcha help you lose weight? Read on for the answers to all these questions and more.

What Is Matcha and How Can it Support Weight Loss?

While you'd probably recognize a bright green cup of matcha if you saw it, many people don't know exactly what matcha is. To set the record straight, matcha is the bright-green powder made from shade-grown green tea leaves. Matcha is traditionally used in Japanese tea ceremonies, where it's blended into a beverage with a special whisk, but can also be used in many different forms of food and drink, like matcha lattes, matcha ice cream, or matcha smoothies.

Matcha vs. Green Tea for Weight Loss

Since matcha is technically a form of green tea, you might be wondering whether drinking matcha vs. green tea for weight loss is more effective.

First, the facts: although catechin and caffeine which are both found in matcha are believed to have a role in boosting metabolism, randomized control trials have failed to find that green teas like matcha are statistically meaningful in improving weight loss outcomes.

While both matcha and green tea may have some benefits for weight loss, matcha likely has the slight edge over green tea as it contains more caffeine and more natural catechins than green tea. However, whether you try matcha for weight loss or prefer green tea, you'll still need to make lifestyle and diet adjustments to see any meaningful results.

Other Benefits of Matcha

• Flavor: Regardless of weight loss goals, many people drink matcha because it’s extremely low in calories and they enjoy the flavor! For a subtle, earthy taste that many people find calming and refreshing, matcha can be a great beverage option at any time of day.
• Antioxidants: In addition to potentially helping with weight loss, matcha is rich in antioxidants. Matcha includes Vitamin C, amino acids, and polyphenols, which have health benefits outside aiding in weight loss.
• Versatility: Matcha is sold in its powdered form, and while making a drink with it is traditional, there are many ways to enjoy it. Some people use it as an ingredient for baking or even mix it into ice cream.

Matcha/Weight Loss FAQs

Does matcha have caffeine?

Yes, matcha does have caffeine. The caffeine content of an 8oz cup of matcha is higher than that of regular green tea, but less than the same amount of coffee.

Is matcha better for weight loss than green tea?

Both matcha and green tea may help with weight loss due to their caffeine and catechin content, which can help boost metabolism. With its slightly higher levels of caffeine and catechins, may be somewhat better for weight loss than green tea, although both should be used alongside diet and exercise adjustments.

Does matcha help lose belly fat?

According to research from the National Institute of Health (NIH), matcha may help alleviate obesity seen in patients with high-fat diets. So yes, matcha can help you lose belly fat when combined with lifestyle changes like adopting a low-carb diet.

Is it healthy to drink matcha every day?

Generally speaking, in moderation, it’s fine to drink matcha every day. Outside of weight loss, matcha has other health benefits, like boosted antioxidants and improved gut health.H owever, matcha does have a lot of caffeine in it, which can cause agitation and irritability. If in doubt, talk to your healthcare provider. 

The Bottom Line

In addition to being relaxing and refreshing, a cup of matcha can potentially help you on your weight loss journey. However, if you're looking for a scientifically-proven weight loss program that can help you get in shape and feel better every day, consider trying Virta. Your 1:1 Virta coach will help you design a medically-informed weight loss plan, and guide you through your journey to a healthier "you." Check if you're eligible for Virta Health and get started.