Mixing Milk with Matcha
Mixing matcha and milk has somehow gotten a bad rap. We don’t know how the rumors started, but word on the street is that enjoying your daily cha with dairy can diminish its health benefits – meaning you’re not absorbing as many of the antioxidants and getting the full benefits from your matcha.
We are here to debunk this myth.
Milk with Matcha: Let's Talk Polyphenols
What are polyphenols found in matcha?
The polyphenols, commonly referred to as Catechins, that are found in matcha are Epicatechin (EC), Epigallocatechin (EGC), Epicatechin-3-gallate (ECG), Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). These polyphenols boast anti-viral and anti-oxidative properties that help fight against infections and destroy free radicals, protecting the body against oxidative stress. They also have anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic and anti-obesity properties – while potentially helping to improve cognitive function as they possess neuroprotective agents (1,2).
Milk with Matcha: Should you Mix the Two?
Mixing Matcha with Milk
The consumption of milk with matcha has been thought to inhibit the activity of anti-oxidants as the milk protein casein will bind to the anti-oxidants and hinder the activity of polyphenols in the body (3). This leads many to believe that enjoying their morning matcha latte may not be as good for them as they originally believed.
However, there have been conflicting studies in this area and there is no hard evidence that mixing dairy products with matcha will reduce its health benefits. Other studies, on the contrary, have noted that consuming milk with matcha actually increases the ability for the body to absorb polyphenols, with some studies noting that increased anti-oxidant activity during digestion by 42% (4).
Milk with Matcha: The Verdict
While there have been concerns regarding the consumption of milk with matcha and its potential impact on the activity of antioxidants, conflicting studies have emerged. Despite claims that milk protein casein may hinder the activity of polyphenols, no definitive evidence supports the notion that mixing dairy products with matcha reduces its health benefits.
In fact, some studies have even suggested that consuming milk with matcha can enhance the body's ability to absorb polyphenols, leading to increased antioxidant activity during digestion. Therefore, for all the matcha fans out there, it's good news – you can continue to enjoy your morning matcha latte without worrying about compromising its potential health benefits.
So matcha fans, rejoice – and mix up another matcha latte!
Sources:
(1) Green Tea Catechins: Their Use in Treating and Preventing Infectious Diseases - PMC (nih.gov)
(2) Green tea catechin, epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG): mechanisms, perspectives and clinical applications - PMC (nih.gov)
(3) The effect of milk alpha-casein on the antioxidant activity of tea polyphenols - PubMed (nih.gov)
(4) Interaction of green tea polyphenols with dairy matrices in a simulated gastrointestinal environment - PubMed (nih.gov)
Note: This article is for informational purposes only. Bonsai Cha matcha is not meant to prevent, treat or cure any illness or disease. Always consult with a qualified health care professional for medical advice.