No, matcha does not break autophagy. It may actually help autophagy, which is a natural cellular cleansing process.
One of the greatest challenges associated with intermittent fasting (IF) and extended fasts is keeping calories at a level to promote autophagy, or cell recycling through autophagy, an essential aspect of longevity benefits associated with these diets. Autophagy also unlocks all kinds of health benefits including:
- improved mental clarity
- reduced inflammation
- healthier skin
- weight loss
Additional Foods That Can Help As Well
There are numerous foods and beverages you can enjoy during a fast without breaking it or disrupting autophagy, including high-quality green tea like matcha that is free from additives and sugar – one cup contains only 2-3 calories compared to many beverages or foods which could disrupt autophagy.
Foods and beverages that contain polyphenols can help promote autophagy by acting as antioxidants that combat free radicals in your body, protecting you from disease. They may also improve digestion, metabolism and fat burning while stabilizing blood sugar levels.
If you want to increase the polyphenol intake in your diet, add matcha or green tea as part of your daily regimen. Turmeric can also be helpful since it has been linked with autophagy activation.
Before You Jump… Talk with Your Doctor
Before making any drastic dietary or lifestyle changes, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Also make sure that if starting an exercise program or health regimen that includes dieting (especially if there is an eating disorder history). Consult a doctor.
Tea Helps! But Not Coffee
While most people understand that coffee can break a fast, few may realize that tea can actually boost autophagy. Tea contains catechins and other compounds which promote cell repair and detoxification while fasting. Examples include black, green and oolong teas as well as herbal varieties like jasmine, chamomile peppermint echinacea and ginger teas.
However, one of the best ways to facilitate and sustain autophagy is through drinking only water during a fast. Water provides a delicious way of replenishing electrolytes lost due to food restrictions; moreover, its gentler nature on digestion makes water-only fasts ideal. Lemon or lime is recommended to add flavor while increasing absorption of essential vitamins and minerals from each sip of water – sugar and artificial sweeteners could add too many unnecessary calories!
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