Drinking it is an enjoyable experience. The amount you use per cup depends on personal preference. On average, most people use 2-3 tablespoons per cup. Some may use more or less depending on their taste.
What is 1 serving of the South American drink?
It is a plant native to parts of South America. Its leaves are used to make a tea-like drink consumed in countries like Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Brazil. To prepare it, fill one-third of a container called a gourd with dried mate leaves. Then add hot water. You can also make it in a French press. It can be served hot or cold. It has about as much caffeine as green tea but provides a different kind of stimulation.
In South America, drinking it is a social tradition shared between friends and family. People often gather in nature and pass around one gourd and metal straw, which creates community. The standard serving of loose leaf mate is around 50 grams. But the amount can vary based on personal taste and size of gourd; too much can taste bitter.
It may provide health benefits like weight loss, increased immunity, and better blood sugar control for diabetics. But more research is still needed, especially on proper dosing. This plant contains caffeine along with related stimulants found in chocolate and coffee. That’s why it offers a unique, smoother caffeine experience compared to drinking only coffee. It provides stimulation without the jitters, crash, or anxiety that coffee can cause.
How long does 500g of the caffeinated tea last?
It is traditionally consumed in central and southern regions of South America. The indigenous Guaraní people first cultivated it.
When served cold, it is called tereré. It can also be served hot. Like coffee, it contains caffeine. Research on potential health benefits is limited.
To make it, dry leaves are steeped in hot water. It has an earthy, tobacco-like taste. The standard ratio is 1 tablespoon of leaves per 8 ounces of water. But this can be adjusted based on preference for strength.
The shelf life depends on several factors. These include the initial leaf quality, storage container, environment, and preparation method. Proper storage in an airtight container, away from moisture, heat, and sunlight can maintain freshness and flavor for up to six months.
How much is safe per day?
It’s a traditional drink in Latin America and can be served hot or cold. Like coffee, it contains caffeine which can increase energy and focus.
- South Americans safely drink 1-4 liters daily.
- In North America and Europe, avid drinkers often consume 1-2 liters daily.
The amount of caffeine ranges from 60-100 mg per cup, compared to 25-28 mg per cup of green or white tea, 47 mg per cup of black tea, 70 mg per teaspoon of matcha, and 100+ mg per cup of coffee.
Studies show it may offer health benefits like weight loss, lower cholesterol, and antioxidant effects. Research is still limited though. Up to 3 grams daily for 12 weeks seems safe for most healthy adults.
Enjoy it moderately. Avoid extremely high intakes over 1,000 mg caffeine daily which may cause side effects like nervousness or jitteriness.