Cancer and PAHs risk
Studies have found the temperature consumed at, not itself, causes cancer. Consuming fluids at temperatures 158-185°F seem to increase esophageal cancer risk. Considering South Americans drink 1-3 liters daily, it’s reasonable esophageal cancer is a health issue there. Always choose organic, unsmoked. Mateina’s is organic, air-dried. You can enjoy light-tasting with peace of mind. Very hot, 149°F or higher, has higher cancer risk than cooler. One explanation is it contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), known carcinogens.
It provides an energy boost and aids digestion but too much may not be healthy. Cancers usually result from genetic predisposition and what individuals consume or exposed to. Cell damage from very hot tea could enhance carcinogenic effect of PAHs, increasing esophageal cancer risk. Is unsmoked safe? Unsmoked brands, usually air-dried, may significantly reduce PAH content as no smoke introduced.
Popularity and Traditions
The herbal drink is most popular in Paraguay. Traditionally served sweetened, drunk from gourd through silver straw. Many varieties have smoky taste. Association found between drinking and esophageal cancer. Risk is drinking very hot liquids. Hard to specifically point out. 2015 study found hot food consumption associated with increased esophageal cancer risk.
Effects on Brain Function
In spite traditional belief stimulant, no studies on effects on wakefulness and sleep. Most should avoid drinking on empty stomach.
Safe Consumption Amounts
Drinking one to two cups of tea daily for up to 12 weeks is safe. Drinking large amounts over a long time or when combined with smoking may increase cancer risk.
It is rich in PAHs which when combined with smoking or alcohol can be carcinogenic. Further research is needed. Those with sleep issues should restrict after 6 pm.
In studies people drank up to 3 cups (1 liter) of daily for 60 days with no issues. Toxicity has not occurred with higher doses.
Some studies suggest tea may benefit cholesterol, weight loss, heart health, inflammation and cancer risk but more research is needed.
Drinking 1-2 liters daily, especially piping hot, may increase mouth, throat and lung cancer risk.
Effects on Liver and Other Organs
It is a tea from South America. It has antioxidants that may protect against cancers, inflammation, cardiovascular issues, liver diseases, and more. However, some studies show that drinking very hot over long periods seems to increase the risk of mouth, throat and lung cancers. This seems to be because it contains PAHs that are carcinogens. Very hot temperatures may increase the effect of these.
The cancer risk also seems higher for those who smoke or drink alcohol. The temperature is drunk at also matters. Temperatures over 149 F (65 C) are associated with a higher cancer risk. Traditional drinking temperatures in South America are 158-185oF (70-85oC).
Caffeine Content and Preparation
- It is like coffee in caffeine content.
- It may provide an energy boost and increased mental focus.
- It also seems to have more antioxidants than green tea.
- However, taking too much can cause anxiety, headache or irregular heartbeats.
To brew, use 1-2 tablespoons per 8 ounces of water. Adjust to taste. It can be served hot or cold. Moderate, occasional consumption seems reasonably safe for healthy adults. But more research on cancer risk is still needed. Those with heart disease or on certain medications should ask a doctor before consuming or other caffeinated drinks.