The tea contains caffeine. I use it to boost my energy before exercise or work. But can you sleep after drinking it in the evening? The caffeine might prevent falling asleep. It can negatively affect sleep quality. Then why do some say drinking mate helps them relax or sleep better? This requires more discussion. Let’s look at how it affects our brain and sleeping.
Effects on Sleep
It might improve sleep due to magnesium, zinc, B vitamins, and nutrients which aid sleep. But its calming and relaxing effects likely help more. Above all, tolerance matters most. If you drink it daily, the caffeine likely barely affects your sleep. This applies to drinking before bed, not in the morning.
In conclusion, mate gives a small, relaxing high. It affects sleep but if you drink enough, over time the effects lessen and it could help you sleep. Why not try it yourself and see how you respond?
What is Mate?
The leaves are used to make a tea-like beverage called mate. Mate contains caffeine and antioxidants. It is traditionally consumed in parts of Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay and Chile.
- The caffeine in mate can help increase energy and mental alertness. It may also have calming effects for some people. However, it can affect sleep if consumed late in the evening, especially for those with low caffeine tolerance. The effects of mate caffeine can last around 4-6 hours on average.
- Mate has potential health benefits beyond its caffeine content. It contains antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. But mate consumption has also been linked to increased risk of certain cancers when consumed very hot.
Mate can be prepared in several ways. Loose leaf mate is brewed in hot water and served in a gourd or cup. Flavored mate tea bags are also available. Mate has a bitter, earthy flavor profile. The bitterness cannot be completely removed but sweeteners can offset it.
Duration of Effects
How long do the effects of mate last?
Potential Benefits and Side Effects
- Some research suggests yerba mate may offer benefits like improved cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, reduced inflammation, and lower cancer risk, but more studies are needed.
- Possible side effects of yerba mate include insomnia, nervousness, nausea, and increased heart rate due to the caffeine.
I often use yerba mate tea to boost my energy before exercise or work more effectively. But the caffeine might prevent falling asleep or negatively affect sleep quality if drank late evening.
Yerba mate shows its properties for a relatively long time. For an experienced drinker, 2-3 servings a day is normal. Moderation is always required.
Too much yerba mate may not be good. But research so far shows its healthy compounds may help prevent cancer, not cause it.