Matcha for Fighting Breast Cancer
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Matcha has recently gained popularity in the United States due to its plentiful health benefits. Now, a new study has come out revealing the powerful effect of matcha on breast cancer cells.
First off, what is matcha?
Matcha is made from green tea leaves that have been ground down into a super fine powder. However, not just any green tea leaves can be used to make matcha. The plants must be temporarily grown in the shade. This blocking of the sun causes the plants to overproduce chlorophyll, giving them a vibrant green color and increased health benefits.
Full Leaf Tea Company's Organic Premium Matcha is a USDA certified organic matcha from the Aichi Prefecture in Japan. Matcha powder is traditionally whisked with hot water to create a soothing and potent cup green tea. However, it can also be used in smoothies, lattes, baked goods, and more. It has a smooth umami flavor.
How does matcha fight breast cancer?
Scientists at the University of Salford’s Biomedical Research Centre did a study on the effects of matcha on breast cancer stem cells. Using metabolic phenotyping, they discovered matcha pushed these cells into an inactive state, reducing the spread of these cells. According to Professor Michael Lisanti, “ [Matcha] is preventing the cells from ‘re-fuelling’ and therefore they become inactive and die.”
Their results infer that matcha could potentially be used to help reprogram breast cancer cells.
Matcha is also known for reducing anxiety, boosting metabolism, increasing focus, and more. Read more about the many health benefits of matcha HERE.
Sources:
Bonuccelli, Gloria, et al. “Matcha Green Tea (MGT) Inhibits the Propagation of Cancer Stem Cells (CSCs), by Targeting Mitochondrial Metabolism, Glycolysis and Multiple Cell Signalling Pathways.” Aging, 2018, doi:10.18632/aging.101483.
University of Salford. “Green Tea Prevent Cancer Cells from 'Refuelling'.” Green Tea Prevent Cancer Cells from 'Refuelling' | News Portal | University of Salford, Manchester, University of Salford Manchester, 30 Aug. 2018, www.salford.ac.uk/news/articles/2018/green-tea-prevent-cancer-cells-from-refuelling.
