This South American drink (or mate) is made from the dried leaves of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. Mate contains caffeine and other stimulants that provide an energy boost. It also has compounds like antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that may offer health benefits.
Some research shows mate may help lower LDL ("bad") cholesterol and prevent hardening of the arteries or blood clots leading to heart disease or stroke. However, other research links mate to increased risk of cancers of the mouth and throat when consumed very hot. More research is needed on cancer risk.
Too much caffeine from mate can cause issues for some like increased blood pressure. Pregnant women should use caution with caffeinated drinks.
Drinking mate is a social tradition in parts of South America. The plant grows wild but is also farmed. The highest quality mate is organic. Mate has an acquired, bitter taste. It can be consumed as a tea or added to foods, energy drinks, supplements, etc.
This tea is made from the Ilex paraguariensis plant. It contains caffeine and nutrients like antioxidants. It provides energy without jitters. Research shows it may have anti-cancer properties similar to green tea, but more research is needed. Like coffee, it increases alertness by stimulating the nervous system. For some with health issues, it may increase blood pressure.
The leaves contain theobromine, caffeine, vitamin C, thiamine and antioxidants. Before enjoying it, consider potential side effects like insomnia. Enjoy it in moderation. It increases bone density and contains anti-inflammatory antioxidants. Too much can cause headaches. Originally used by indigenous peoples, it is now consumed worldwide.
Comparison to Coffee
It provides an energy boost similar to coffee, but with less caffeine. It typically has about 85 milligrams of caffeine per cup, while coffee has 95 milligrams per cup. This means it has more caffeine than black tea, but less than coffee. Drinking it provides the mood and focus benefits of caffeine while being gentler.
It is a traditional South American drink made from the Ilex paraguariensis plant leaves. It has a rich, earthy flavor and high caffeine content. The caffeine combines with other natural stimulants to provide a sustained energy boost without jitters or crash.
Coffee also provides stimulatory benefits of caffeine which improves mood and focus. Studies show coffee reduces risk of certain cancers, Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, obesity and diabetes. However, excessive coffee intake may tax adrenal glands, dehydrate and cause jitters due to high caffeine content.
Both drinks are acidic. Coffee is more acidic with a pH around 4.7 while its pH varies by brand. High acidity drinks can cause gastroesophageal reflux disease.
It contains antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage. The gentler stimulation makes it arguably healthier than coffee for those sensitive to caffeine. However, both beverages can be part of a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Stimulant Effects
It provides an energy boost similar to coffee. This drink’s brain-enhancing benefits are well known. It contains a moderate amount of caffeine. Caffeine helps motivate by stimulating dopamine production, the body’s “feel good” neurotransmitter.
It is likely safe for healthy adults who drink it occasionally. However, drinking large amounts for long periods may increase cancer risk of the mouth, throat and lungs. Consuming over 12 cups daily might cause headache, anxiety, ringing in the ears, and irregular heartbeats.
This nutritious South American drink is brewed from leaves of a holly bush related plant. It stimulates mind and body without causing crashes or jitters.
It grows as an evergreen plant native to only a few South American rainforest regions. Leaves grown in shade taste more flavorful and nutrient-rich than leaves grown in direct sun. Brands process leaves differently, creating varying smokey or bitter taste profiles balanced by adding mint, honey, sugar, milk or citrus.
It is packed with vitamins, minerals, amino acids and polyphenols. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, moderation is key as increased alertness comes from caffeine’s nervous system stimulation. Those with heart conditions should be cautious of potential complications.