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الوسم: green tea

  • Excess Coffee Could Raise Risks in Severe Hypertension

    Excess Coffee Could Raise Risks in Severe Hypertension

    Credit: Unsplash+

    A morning cup of coffee is a daily ritual for countless individuals, and numerous studies have linked moderate coffee consumption to potential health perks.

    However, new research indicates that drinking two or more cups daily could pose risks for people with very high blood pressure.

    The study found that individuals with blood pressure at or above 160/100 mm Hg who consumed at least two cups of coffee each day had about double the risk of cardiovascular death compared to those in the same blood pressure range who didn’t drink coffee.

    High blood pressure, or hypertension, makes the heart and blood vessels work harder than normal. Over time, this can damage arteries and organs, significantly raising the chances of a heart attack, stroke, and other serious cardiovascular issues.

    Coffee’s relationship with heart health is complex. It contains caffeine, which can cause a temporary spike in blood pressure and increase heart rate in certain individuals. At the same time, coffee is rich in plant compounds that may offer health benefits.

    Earlier studies have linked moderate coffee intake to lower risks of several chronic illnesses. Some research even suggests that coffee might improve survival rates after a heart attack.

    The latest findings imply that coffee’s effects might depend on an individual’s existing health conditions. For those with extremely high blood pressure, the stimulating effects of caffeine could be more pronounced and potentially harmful.

    This research analyzed data from over 18,000 adults in Japan, including more than 6,500 men and over 12,000 women, aged between 40 and 79. Participants shared details about their coffee and green tea consumption.

    The researchers categorized participants according to their blood pressure levels and tracked health outcomes over time, focusing on deaths from cardiovascular diseases, which involve the heart and blood vessels.

    Among those with severe hypertension, drinking two or more cups of coffee daily was linked to approximately twice the risk of cardiovascular death. Interestingly, consuming just one cup per day did not increase this risk, even in people with high blood pressure.

    Green tea exhibited a different pattern. Consuming green tea regularly was not associated with heightened cardiovascular risk across any blood pressure category, despite also containing caffeine.

    One possible reason is that green tea is high in polyphenols—natural plant compounds known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, the study didn’t establish that these compounds directly caused the differences observed between coffee and tea.

    It’s important to note that the study was observational, meaning researchers identified patterns based on habits and health outcomes without assigning specific caffeine levels to participants. Therefore, causation cannot be confirmed.

    Individuals with very high blood pressure shouldn’t necessarily eliminate coffee based solely on these findings. Still, those who drink several cups daily should consult with their healthcare provider—particularly if their blood pressure remains uncontrolled.

    Controlling hypertension remains crucial for heart health. Strategies such as taking prescribed medication, reducing salt intake, exercising regularly, maintaining a balanced diet, avoiding smoking, and monitoring blood pressure are key steps to lowering cardiovascular risks.

    This research, led by Hiroyasu Iso, was published in the Journal of the American Heart Association. It highlights that when it comes to coffee, a person’s blood pressure might be just as important as how much they drink.

    If managing high blood pressure is a concern for you, consider reading about breakfast options that help regulate blood pressure and the gut feelings that may assist in lowering it.

    For additional insights, explore recent studies on how the DASH diet can reduce blood pressure and tips on foods that promote healthy blood pressure levels.

    Copyright © 2026 Knowridge Science Report. All rights reserved.

  • Global Surge: The Rise of Japanese Tea Culture

    Global Surge: The Rise of Japanese Tea Culture

    Matcha’s Rise: A Global Phenomenon


    Kate Harwitz presents her matcha drink at Kettl Tea in the Los Feliz neighborhood of Los Angeles, California, on May 20, 2025. — AFP

    SAYAMA, JAPAN: Matcha has become a trendy choice at cafes around the globe, yet producers in Japan are finding it challenging to meet the escalating demand for this powdered green tea.

    Here’s a rundown of what you need to know about the drink that has captured the hearts of weekend indulgence seekers and wellness enthusiasts alike.

    What Exactly is Matcha?

    The term "matcha" translates to "ground tea" in Japanese. It appears as a vibrant green powder that’s whisked with hot water and can be mixed with milk for a delicious matcha latte.

    Green tea made its debut in Japan after being imported from China in the early 9th century, initially used for medicinal reasons. The specific matcha variety emerged much later—in 16th century Kyoto—as part of the tea ceremony tradition established by tea master Sen no Rikyu.

    Today, matcha comes in a variety of grades, ranging from "ceremonial" to "culinary," the latter being used for baking.

    How is Matcha Made?

    Matcha is prepared from leaves known as “tencha.” In the weeks leading up to harvest, these leaves are grown in shaded conditions to intensify their flavor, color, and nutrient content.

    Masahiro Okutomi, a tea producer in Sayama—northwest of Tokyo—explains, “This requires creating a complex structure with poles and a roof to filter the sunlight.”

    The tencha leaves are harvested by hand, deveined, steamed, dried, and then ground with two stone mills to create a fine powder. Producing just 40 grams (1.4 ounces) of matcha can take up to an hour, making it about twice as costly to produce compared to regular green tea leaves.

    Health Benefits of Matcha

    Many enjoy matcha for its rich, grassy flavor, while others appreciate its nutritional advantages. It’s packed with antioxidants and can aid in focus due to its caffeine content; a serving contains about 48 milligrams, which is slightly less than a drip coffee but almost double that of standard green tea.

    According to Shigehito Nishikida, manager of Tokyo’s Jugetsudo tea shop, “People often believe matcha is beneficial for health.” He continues, “But they’re also drawn to the Japanese tea culture surrounding it: the rituals, the time dedicated, and the aesthetics.”

    Why is Matcha So Popular?

    In 2023, Japan produced 4,176 tons of matcha, a significant increase from 1,430 tons in 2012. Over half of this powder is exported, primarily to the United States, Southeast Asia, Europe, Australia, and the Middle East.

    Social media platforms, especially TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, have a plethora of videos showcasing how to create Instagram-worthy matcha drinks, often featuring the traditional bamboo whisk known as "chasen."

    As marketing professional Stevie Youssef noted at a matcha bar in Los Angeles, “I believe that Gen Z has really fueled this passion for matcha and utilized social media to spread the word.”

    Matcha’s versatility extends into culinary uses, attracting a wider audience beyond just tea enthusiasts. Nishikida adds, “Some customers simply enjoy drinking it, others love preparing it themselves, and many purchase it as gifts—Japanese matcha is always appreciated.”