Latest news with #wellnessinfluencers
News24
4 days ago
- Health
- News24
Matcha: The Japanese tea taking over the world
Matcha, the vibrant powdered green tea with deep cultural ties to Japanese tea ceremonies, has become a global sensation. It is heralded for its unique taste, health benefits, and photogenic appeal, rich antioxidant levels and calming properties which have captured the interest of wellness enthusiasts and social media influencers alike. However, as global demand soars beyond Japan's ability to keep pace, matcha remains synonymous with quality craftsmanship and Japanese tradition. Matcha is the new drink of choice at hip cafes worldwide, but Japanese producers are struggling to keep up with soaring demand for the powdered green tea. Here's what you need to know about the drink beloved of weekend treat-seekers and 'wellness' influencers: What is matcha? The word matcha means 'ground tea' in Japanese and comes in the form of a vivid green powder that is whisked with hot water and can be added to milk to make a matcha latte. Green tea was introduced to Japan from China in the early ninth century, and was first used for medicinal purposes. Matcha came much later, in 16th century Kyoto -- part of the tea ceremony tradition developed by tea master Sen no Rikyu. Today, there are different grades of matcha quality, from 'ceremonial' to 'culinary' types used in baking. How is it produced? Matcha is made from leaves called 'tencha', which are grown in the shade in the final weeks before their harvest to concentrate the flavour, colour and nutrients. This 'requires the construction of a complex structure with poles and a roof to filter the light', explained Masahiro Okutomi, a tea producer in Sayama, northwest of Tokyo. Tencha leaves, rich in chlorophyll and L-theanine, a compound known for its relaxing effects, are hand-picked and deveined, then steamed, dried and ground between two stone mills to produce an ultra-fine powder. AFP It can take up to an hour to produce just 40 grams (1.4 ounces) of matcha - making the powder on average twice as expensive to produce as standard green tea leaves. What are its benefits? Many drink matcha for its rich grass-like taste, but others are drawn to the drink's nutritional properties. It is rich in antioxidants, and can aid concentration because of its caffeine content: one cup contains on average 48 milligrams, slightly less than a drip coffee but nearly twice as much as a standardly brewed green tea. 'Matcha is often seen as being good for your health,' said Shigehito Nishikida, manager of Tokyo tea shop Jugetsudo. Why is it so popular? Japan produced 4 176 tonnes of matcha in 2023 - a huge increase from the 1 430 tonnes in 2012. More than half of the powder is exported, according to the agriculture ministry, mostly to the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia and the Middle East. Millions of videos on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube demonstrate how to make photogenic matcha drinks or choose a traditional 'chasen' bamboo whisk. READ | 'I feel like Gen Z really drove this enthusiasm for matcha, and they heavily relied on social media to do so,' Stevie Youssef, a 31-year-old marketing professional, told AFP at a matcha bar in Los Angeles. Matcha can also be used in cooking, extending its appeal to others aside from tea lovers. 'Some customers simply enjoy drinking it, others like preparing it themselves. And of course, many buy it as a gift - Japanese matcha is always appreciated,' said Jugetsudo's Nishikida.
Vogue
27-05-2025
- General
- Vogue
The Small Fish With Big Benefits for the Skin and Bones
Everybody—from beaded bag connoisseurs to wellness influencers—are talking about sardines. Beyond fashion, it makes sense: The tiny oily fish has many benefits when it comes to your skin, hair, and body. The small silver fish (there are actually quite a few different breeds that fall under the 'sardine' head) are found in deep, cold areas, far from the coasts. In the United States, they can be found from Baja California, Mexico all the way up to Alaska. All the health benefits of sardines Don't let the size of this fish fool you—though a sardine (typically) weighs around 4 ounces, the benefits are big. How often should you eat sardines? The current Dietary Guidelines for Americans suggest two to three servings per week. Who shouldn't eat sardines? If you're watching your cholesterol, sardines might not be the best protein choice for you.
Sustainability Times
13-05-2025
- Health
- Sustainability Times
Cold Plunges Are a Scam for Women and Science Just Dropped the Mic on This Freezing Hot Fitness Fad
IN A NUTSHELL ❄️ Cold plunges are popular for muscle recovery, but a Swiss study shows no significant benefits for women. are popular for muscle recovery, but a Swiss study shows no significant benefits for women. 🩺 Experts warn about potential risks of cold exposure, especially for individuals with heart and respiratory conditions. warn about potential risks of cold exposure, especially for individuals with heart and respiratory conditions. 🔬 The study highlights the gender gap in sports science, urging for more inclusive and representative research. in sports science, urging for more inclusive and representative research. 💡 Alternative recovery methods like sleep, hydration, and light activity may be safer and more effective. The allure of cold plunges has captivated fitness enthusiasts and wellness influencers alike, promoting the idea that submerging oneself in icy water can significantly aid muscle recovery. The global cold plunge tub market reached an astounding $318.63 million in 2023, underscoring its widespread popularity. Yet, a new study from Switzerland challenges these benefits for women. Could it be that the icy hype lacks substance for half the population? No Meaningful Edge in Recovery The Swiss study took a deep dive into the effects of cold and hot water immersion on muscle recovery in women. Participants were put through a rigorous workout involving multiple sets of drop-jumps designed to induce muscle damage. Post-exercise, they were divided into three groups: cold-water immersion, hot-water immersion, and no immersion. Submerging up to the sternum, participants in the plunge groups underwent this process immediately after exercising and once more two hours later. Interestingly, while physiological changes such as body temperature variations and muscle oxygenation were noted, these did not translate into improved recovery metrics. Key indicators like soreness, knee extensor swelling, creatine kinase levels, and isometric muscle strength were monitored at intervals following the workout. Results showed no significant differences across the groups, questioning the effectiveness of these popular recovery methods. Discover the Top Nutrient-Rich Foods that Can Assist in Your Weight Loss Journey Experts Weigh In on Risks and Benefits Dr. Farah Ahmad from The London General Practice provided insights into the broader implications of cold plunges. While potential benefits such as activating brown adipose tissue and improving insulin sensitivity were acknowledged, the risks could not be overlooked. She highlighted the dangers posed to individuals with pre-existing conditions, noting that sudden cold exposure can lead to rapid heart rate increases and elevated blood pressure, potentially triggering dangerous cardiac events. Moreover, the sudden shock of cold water might cause hyperventilation, a significant risk for those with respiratory ailments like asthma. Individuals with sensitive skin could also experience adverse reactions. These insights underscore the need for caution and the importance of tailor-fit recovery strategies. « This brewing habit could silently hurt you »: these common coffee preparation methods directly linked to increased heart disease risk Study Highlights Gender Gap in Sports Science The Swiss trial stands out for focusing specifically on women, a demographic often overlooked in sports science. Historically, males have dominated studies on training and recovery, leading to a skewed understanding of how these processes work across genders. This study emphasizes the necessity for more inclusive research that considers sex-specific physiological responses and real-world workout contexts. The researchers advocate for future studies that better represent the female population and address the unique needs and responses women might have to recovery protocols. Such research is crucial for developing effective, gender-sensitive recovery strategies in sports and fitness. 'China Can See the Invisible': Beijing Unveils Handheld Tech That Locates U.S. Stealth Aircraft With Pinpoint Accuracy Smarter Ways to Recover In light of the study's findings, alternative recovery methods are gaining attention. Dr. Ravina Bhanot of Zonas Fertility advises a holistic approach focusing on fundamental recovery pillars. She emphasizes the importance of quality sleep, adequate hydration, and balanced nutrition, particularly protein intake, to support muscle repair and growth. Incorporating light activities like walking or yoga, along with occasional massages or heat therapy, can also enhance recovery without the potential risks associated with cold plunges. This comprehensive approach aligns more closely with sustainable wellness practices, offering a safer and potentially more effective path to recovery. As the conversation around cold plunges and their efficacy continues, one must consider whether the icy allure is truly beneficial or merely a trend. With research unveiling new insights, the question remains: How will future studies shape our understanding of effective recovery strategies for both men and women? Did you like it? 4.5/5 (21)
