Coffee - a drink that needs no introduction - is the most popular choice for those of us looking for an energy boost. But how does it compare to the humble matcha?
Matcha is stone-ground, whole green tea leaves grown in special conditions, and because you consume the entire leaf, one cup of matcha gives you the same benefits as 10 cups of green tea.
It doesn't have the same popularity as coffee in the West, but in Japan, it's been hailed for centuries for its ability to put people in a zen-like state of being energised and relaxed at the same time.
But how does matcha measure up to coffee? Natalia Vilas Boas, owner of Enso Matcha, has some ideas.
"If we look only at the amount of caffeine in matcha and coffee, matcha contains up to 70mg of caffeine per cup, whereas a cup of coffee of the same size contains approx 96mg of caffeine," she explains.
"Generally, matcha has 30-50 percent less caffeine than a cup of coffee."
Based on caffeine content alone, you might think coffee is the clear winner - but there are said to be key differences in how your body absorbs the caffeine in both drinks.
"Coffee is absorbed very quickly, giving you a sudden spike of energy. That's why you'll often experience a racing heartbeat and jitters, especially if you're sensitive to caffeine," Natalia continues.
"The L-theanine in matcha helps your body absorb the caffeine much more slowly. The result is a gentle yet noticeable increase in energy.
"Because caffeine in matcha is absorbed by your body more slowly, the energy lasts for longer. You get four-five hours of zen-like energy, relaxing your brain while keeping you focused and alert. Best of all, no crash afterwards."
So in summary, both are great sources of energy, but matcha is said to be less likely to make you crash and dash for another cup for a further energy boost.
"When you drink matcha, your body absorbs the caffeine in a way that prevents a lot of the side effects you get from drinking coffee," Natalia says.
"Buddhist monks have been drinking matcha tea for centuries for this very reason - they are able to remain relaxed, energised and alert without the intensity of other caffeinated drinks."
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