Consumption of stimulating beverage is a common practice for those looking for more energy at the beginning of the day or during periods of higher demand. Coffee and tea are the usual protagonists, but there is another drink that begins to gain space, both from energy effects and potential cardiovascular benefits.
According to Mayo Clinic, the traditional tea in South America contains caffeine and other bioactive compounds that act on the central nervous system and energy metabolism, also presenting antioxidant effects with clinical relevance.
Origin and composition of tea mate
Mate tea is prepared from the leaves of the plant Ilex paraguariensisconsumed in hot or cold infusion. According to the same source, the drink contains between 70 and 90 mg of caffeine per serving, values comparable to those of a cup of coffee.
Harvard Th Chan School of Public Health writes that, in addition to caffeine, mate provides polyphenols, theobromine and saponins, compounds that have been associated with the reduction of oxidative stress and the regulation of blood lipids.
Stimulus with less impact on heart rate
A study published in the Journal of Functional Foods compared the effects of tea mate and coffee on healthy volunteers and concluded that Mate has increased attention and alert state with less impact on blood pressure.
It refers to the same source that participants who ingested mate tea reported sustained energy levels, without peaks and breaks associated with other caffeine drinks.
Adds the publication that thebromine present in the drink can contribute to a moderate vasodilator effect, facilitating blood flow and reducing peripheral vascular resistance.
Potential effects on cardiovascular health
Another clinical trial, released at the Journal Nutrition Clinical, evaluated the regular consumption of mate tea in individuals with high cholesterol. After 40 days, participants had a reduction in LDL (“bad” cholesterol) levels and a slight increase in HDL (“good” cholesterol).
According to the same source, these effects may be due to the presence of saponins and flavonoids, which interfere with fat absorption and promote a more balanced lipid profile.
Researchers underline that the effects are dependent on the dose and frequency of consumption, observing results more consistent with daily intakes exceeding 500 ml.
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Modes of consumption and precautions
Mate tea can be consumed as a traditional infusion, but it also exists in bottled versions, powder and capsules. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, the non -sugar version is preferable to prevent glycemic peaks and excessive caloric intake.
Despite the potential benefits, excessive consumption of hot mate tea has been associated with the highest risk of esophageal injuries, especially in prolonged use contexts and high temperature. Health authorities recommend that it be ingested at a temperature of less than 60ºC.
Balance and variety continue to be the key
The introduction of mate tea can represent an alternative to coffee or green tea, particularly for those looking for variety or has sensitivity to traditional coffee.
Explains that stimulating effects are softer and more prolonged, which may be advantageous in working contexts or prolonged study.
Its consumption is deeply rooted in the culture of countries such as Argentina, Uruguay and Brazil, but has been gaining popularity in Europe and the United States as a functional drink.
CONCLUSIONS OF AVAILABLE STUDIES
Despite the positive results in initial studies, experts warn that more research will be needed to understand the mechanisms of action of matt compounds and their effects on different populations.
Still, the available set of evidence suggests that this drink can be considered a viable option from the energy and cardiovascular point of view.
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