FoodUnveiling the energy secrets of yerba mate: Beyond coffee's grip

Unveiling the energy secrets of yerba mate: Beyond coffee's grip

One of the healthiest drinks
One of the healthiest drinks
Images source: © Adobe Stock

8 September 2024 16:13

Some start their day with a glass of warm water, while others can't imagine a morning without a cup of coffee. However, there is a drink that works even better and provides as much energy as if you had eaten a battery. My friend drinks it regularly and can't stop praising it.

Yerba mate, also known as Paraguayan tea, is a drink made from the leaves of the holly plant. Although it originates from South America, it is gaining popularity all over the world. This dried herb is valued for its energizing properties and its potential to aid in weight loss. It's the perfect combination to start the day.

Energy boost in the morning

Like coffee, yerba mate contains caffeine, which stimulates the nervous system, improves concentration, and reduces feelings of fatigue. However, the caffeine in yerba mate is released gradually, ensuring a more stable energy level over a longer period of time.

Yerba mate also contains other active substances, such as theobromine, theophylline, and saponins, which enhance caffeine's effects and increase energy. But that's not all, because this unassuming tea hides even more goodness. Yerba mate infusion is rich in B vitamins, which are crucial in cell energy production. It also contains minerals such as potassium, magnesium, and iron, which support the nervous and muscular systems.

Yerba mate
Yerba mate© Adobe Stock

Yerba mate and weight loss

While the health benefits of yerba mate are undeniable, its weight loss benefits might seem questionable. But you might change your mind once you see the effects for yourself, as yerba can be a great addition to a healthy and balanced weight loss diet.

Firstly, the caffeine in it not only stimulates us but also boosts metabolism, which is essential for weight loss. Yerba mate also provides a feeling of fullness, helping to control hunger pangs and reduce appetite. It stimulates the secretion of digestive juices, facilitating digestion and the absorption of nutrients.

It provides a feeling of fullness, making it easier to control hunger. This infusion is also believed to reduce the activity of pancreatic lipase, which limits the absorption of fats.

yerba mate
yerba mate© Licensor

How to drink yerba mate?

Yerba mate is traditionally drunk from a particular container called a gourd using a metal bombilla. This is the traditional way to drink it, so if you plan to consume it regularly, it's worth getting the right set.

The infusion is prepared by pouring hot, but not boiling, water over dried yerba mate leaves. It can be drunk hot or cold, with honey, lemon, or other herbs.

Yerba mate
Yerba mate © Pexels | MESSALA CIULLA
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