Why She Said Goodbye to Coffee - Matcha and ADHD/ADD

Everyone jokes about needing their coffee.

For those of us with ADHD, oftentimes being dependent on caffeine to function is no laughing matter. 

Caffeine mimics the effects of stimulants like Adderall, which is why many choose to use coffee as a more natural way to treat their ADHD.

I have used coffee both in addition to medication and in place of medication. Although I enjoy the taste and mental benefits, the side effects of coffee like shakiness and gut upset are enough to make me hate the habit at times. For years, I never really considered that I had an alternative source of caffeine (other than coke, which I just won't do). 

One day, I walked into a local coffee shop, Nossa Familia. Instead of getting a latte with chocolate whip (which is the greatest thing ever), I for some reason decided to try a matcha latte.

Um, yes. Hello, universe? I would like a refund on every cup of coffee I've ever had. 

Ok, maybe that's dramatic. I do love the taste of coffee, but after trying matcha, I'd swap coffee for this powdered green tea every time. 

Why? So many reasons! 

1) yummy. 

2) no bad side effects. Yep, no shaking, no crash, no stomach upset thanks to a substance called l-theanine which promotes an "alert calm."  

3) nutritious. Matcha is full of nutrients and antioxidants. According to www.health.com, 

"In addition to providing small amounts of vitamins and minerals, matcha is rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, which have been tied to protection against heart disease and cancer, as well as better blood sugar regulation, blood pressure reduction, and anti-aging. Another polyphenol in matcha called EGCG has been shown in research to boost metabolism, and slow or halt the growth of cancer cells."

4) aesthetics. Sorry, but the bright green color of matcha is way prettier than the gross brown of coffee. 

Since my trip to Nossa, I've tried different kinds of matcha. Still good, but I couldn't find anything I liked as much as that first cup - not too grassy, not too acidic, and well dissolved. Luckily, after tagging Nossa Familia in an Instagram post about my matcha latte, Mizuba Tea Co. reached out and said "so glad you enjoyed our matcha!" 

You guys, Mizuba Tea Co. not only has an amazing product, they're an amazing company. They're direct-sellers who are passionate about personally knowing their suppliers and farmers, as well as connecting people and creating community around tea. Luckily for you, they're also very generous, and sent me a sample so that I could learn to make it myself and share the benefits of their lovely tea with you! 

My bamboo brush is still in transit, so for now I've been using a small whisk to dissolve 1.5 tsp of powder with a small amount of warm water in a bowl. I add honey, or coconut sugar to taste. I then add heated milk or coconut milk, usually 4-6 ounces, and voila! My latte is ready to drink.

Since Mizuba is a direct seller, it's likely their matcha is sold at a local shop near you. If you can't find a local place to purchase, you can buy it through their website here! A little goes a long way, which makes their tea a great value. 

I feel so much better since swapping coffee for matcha. My digestive system is more calm and consistent, I no longer have the jitters, and I don't experience the hard crash that comes with coffee. Overall, I just feel more calm and alert, which as you all know are two things definitely NOT associated with an ADHD adult without help!  

If you're ready to kick your coffee habit and replace it with a healthier alternative, check out Mizuba Tea Co.! You won't regret it. 

Thanks, Maddi, for bringing this to light!