It provides an energy boost similar to coffee. But it has less caffeine and more nutrients than coffee. It’s been called “the drink of the gods” by indigenous South Americans. First, it has many evidence-based mental and physical health benefits.
Benefits
However, it contains a decent amount of caffeine. So it won’t be the best choice for everyone. The flavor can vary quite a bit. It can be described as bitter, pungent, nutty, grassy, smokey and more. You can always add a sweetener or lemon as an easy way to make it taste better.
Some brands can leave a nasty sour taste in your mouth. So here is a list of the five best brands — ones which most people will enjoy. If you’re a beginner who’s only tried 1-3 brands, you’ll likely find one you like below.
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It contains caffeine. This can cause inability to sleep, nervousness, nausea, increased heart rate and other side effects. It is possibly unsafe when taken in large amounts or for long periods. But it helps with constipation.
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It’s also naturally low in fluoride, unlike green tea. So it’s a good alternative if you’re concerned about the high fluoride content in green tea.
Health Concerns
Many would still agree today that it has health benefits. But before falling in love, we need to look at the full list of side effects. There haven’t been enough studies done on it so we don’t know its full effects yet. For now, we can only speculate and drink it in controlled amounts.
Its leaves are high in xanthines, especially theobromine and caffeine. These compounds are primarily responsible for the stimulating effects.
Flavor Profiles
Depending on the brand you choose, you could have a strong bitter flavor, or a slightly milder taste. Some brands can take on a smokey flavor, depending on how the leaves are processed.
It provides an energy boost due to its high caffeine content, which is linked to increased alertness, improved concentration, reduced fatigue, and enhanced physical performance. Containing a moderate amount of caffeine, this drink’s brain-enhancing benefits are well known.
South Americans safely drink upwards of 1–4 liters per day. In United States, Canada, and Europe, it’s not uncommon for an avid drinker to consume at least 1–2 liters per day. Similar to coffee and tea in America, it is also commonly consumed as a morning pick-me-up.
It has a steady rise in energy which gives a feel of stimulation to the drinker’s minds and bodies. That’s also why it doesn’t give you the jitters, unlike coffee.
It could also potentially reduce body fat, boost metabolism, and reduce appetite. This, along with a health meal plan, can help with weight loss.
It is an infusion used to make a tea-like beverage, but it does not contain any actual tea leaves. It is bitter when it is brewed. If you’re looking for a drink with more flavor, you should choose a more substantial variety.
It has a strong earthy flavor with a grassy, mildly bitter undertone. It also has a eucalyptus scent, which some people may find unsettling at first.
It has evergreen leaves and produces small fruit berries that flower into greenish white flowers. Leaves and stems are often hand picked then dried.
It helps physical performance. The energy boost helps athletes perform better. It could potentially reduce body fat, boost metabolism, and reduce appetite. Along with a healthy meal plan, this can help with weight loss.
Our favorite brands combine great flavor with responsible production, reasonable pricing, and ease of use. If you’re new to this drink, you may prefer a non-traditional blend with fewer stems. If you like green tea, you may enjoy the traditional version. We’ll explain why we’ve chosen these and why you should incorporate this into your habits.
It is commonly compared to green tea. It is an herbal tea, not a true green or black tea.
Why So Addictive?
It contains caffeine, which can be addictive. It does not cause hallucinations like other plant-based drugs. Drinking it may help treat mental disorders. It has energizing virtues and is used to aid concentration and mental stimulation.
You keep drinking it because you like it, not because your body needs it. Different people have different responses. The mix of stimulants increases focus for studying and working longer without crashing. Unlike Adderall, it won’t prevent sleep.
It provides steady energy, unlike coffee’s jitters. It is POSSIBLY UNSAFE in large, long term amounts. Risks include various cancers.
It helps focus and improves mood. It has a distinctive, bitter, vegetal taste. “It’s euphoric,” says a fan. It relieves fatigue, aids weight loss, eases depression and headaches. It doesn’t stain teeth.
Many still agree today that it provides an energy boost with less caffeine and more nutrients than coffee or green tea.