Mate is a traditional South American drink made from the leaves of the mate plant steeped in hot water. It has a unique, invigorating taste and high caffeine content. The caffeine buzz from mate lasts longer than coffee. At 85 mg per cup, mate contains less caffeine than coffee but more than traditional black tea. Its caffeine content may increase energy levels and make you feel less tired.
Caffeine Content
On average, a cup of mate tea contains about 70 mg of caffeine compared to 120 mg in coffee. However, caffeine levels depend on the product and brewing method. Mate has around the same caffeine level as coffee but may not make the drinker jittery. It has adaptogenic properties to regulate the body’s systems.
The indigenous Guarani and Tupi first cultivated and consumed mate in parts of what is now Paraguay. The Jesuits spread its commercialization. Today, drinking mate is a customary social ritual in parts of South America.
Mate has even more antioxidants than green tea, plus various health-promoting compounds. It is seen as more nutritious than coffee or black tea.
The caffeine in mate may be better tolerated than coffee since it is more diluted. The diuretic effects also eliminate caffeine byproducts quickly.
Duration of Effects
How long do the effects last?
- Mate’s caffeine buzz can last 4-6 hours, longer than coffee. Staying hydrated, balanced intake helps maximize benefits, optimize function.
- If consumed regularly, may experience sustained benefits over time. This drink is known for positive effects on cognitive function.
- Can help maintain balanced sleep cycle, stay awake longer. Best energy drink with anti-oxidant properties.
Contains compounds to help prevent oxidative damage, regulate energy metabolism, modulate antioxidant enzymes. Can help protect brain.
Origins
Pronounced yer ba ma tA, from Spanish. Meaning herb + mate, the gourd used as container for brewing. Popular in parts of South America, primarily Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, Brazil.
Provides caffeinated feeling. Remember, gourd size affects amount used.
Effects come subtly, can last hours. Contains moderate caffeine. Provide benefits including increased focus, energy.
Contains flavonoids, vitamins, polyphenols to help prevent oxidative damage, regulate energy metabolism. Can help protect brain. Mechanism behind stimulative effects.
Best time is morning, after/during meal high in fat, protein, low carbs. Avoid 1-2 hours after waking. Makes happy due to compounds.
Mate contains stimulants – caffeine, theobromine and theophylline – which work by impacting dopamine and norepinephrine levels. Mate suppresses melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep. Timing is crucial when enjoying mate at night.
- Mate has a diuretic effect as it reduces fluid retention, helping eliminate toxins. This makes it superior for preventing oxidative stress. The energy boost lasts longer than coffee and gives better mental focus, without jitteriness.
- Some people may experience anxiety, heart palpitations from excess mate. It’s not recommended if pregnant, breastfeeding, with anxiety issues.
Mate tea provides a sustained energy boost. When consumed traditionally, the effects last longer compared to tea bags, maintaining mental alertness.
Mate contains beneficial nutrients like antioxidants and polyphenols. These compounds help prevent oxidative damage and modulate energy metabolism.
The invigorating properties of mate make it popular. It offers more nutrients than coffee or tea with less caffeine, providing healthy stimulation and mental focus.
A kilogram of mate can provide over 250 servings. Exact duration depends on preparation method, with traditional use resulting in fewer servings per kilogram.