Prevents cancer Matcha is loaded with health-promoting compounds, including some that have been linked to cancer prevention in test tube and animal studies. Matcha is especially high in epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a type of catechin that has been shown to have powerful anti-cancer properties. In a study published in the National Library of Medicine, it was found that EGCG in matcha helped kill off prostate cancer cells How to live longer: Matcha has anti cancer properties and could reduce diabetes risk (Image: Getty Images) READ MORE Lowers diabetes risk In another study published in the US National Library of Medicine National Institutes of Health, the effects of green tea on obesity and type 2 diabetes were analysed.