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Very present in the routine of those who live in southern Brazil, yerba mate is the basis of traditional drinks such as mate and mate tea. Known for the striking flavor and stimulating effect, the plant can also be one when consumed in the form of infusion.
Rich in caffeine, theobromine, saponins and polyphenols, yerba mate still has antioxidant properties/Photo: Reproduction
Tea made of yerba mate also contains compounds that help control glucose and improve insulin sensitivity, being a good option for those seeking to prevent long-term diabetes complications.
Rich in caffeine, theobromine, saponins and polyphenols, yerba mate still has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neurostimulant properties.
“Caffeine improves alertness and concentration. Polyphenols help to neutralize free radicals and protect cells,” explains Camila Ciancio, a medical specialist in Nutrology and Integrative Health who works in São Paulo.
According to the expert, moderate infusion consumption can improve physical and mental disposition, help and contribute to cholesterol control.
“Studies from the University of São Paulo have shown that daily infusion consumption significantly reduced LDL cholesterol in patients with dyslipidemia,” he says. In addition, it points out that yerba mate favors fat digestion and stimulates thermogenesis, and increasing basal caloric expenditure.
Benefits of Yerba Mate Tea
- Infusion consumption can increase energy and focusespecially when used as a coffee substitute.
- For containing antioxidant compounds, it helps in disease prevention and inflammation control.
- Regular and moderate consumption of tea can contribute to the Improvement of cholesterol levels.
- The drink too favors digestionespecially in those who suffer from a feeling of oven.
- Some patients report greater satiety and Less willingness to pinch throughout the day.
Ally of weight loss and satiety
For those seeking to reduce measurements, tea can also be part of nutritional strategies.
“I usually include yerba mate in weight loss plans, especially for people with a tendency to binge eating or who need more energy in everyday life,” says nutritionist Fernando Castro, from Brasilia.
According to him, the drink accelerates metabolism, slightly reduces appetite and favors the oxidation of body fat. “However, the real result comes from the combination with proper feeding, physical activity and regulated sleep,” he says.
How to prepare infusion?
To enjoy the active compounds of the plant, it is important to pay attention to the way of preparation. “I always advise you not to use boiling water, as this can degrade the beneficial compounds,” teaches Fernando.
The ideal, according to him, is to heat the water up to about 70 to 80 ° C and leave the herb in infusion for 5 to 10 minutes.
Another recommendation is to opt for good provenance, preferably organic, and avoid using sugar. “It’s a simple detail that makes a lot of difference in the result of the food plan,” he adds.
Who should avoid?
Despite the benefits, excess consumption can bring risks. Camila warns that volumes above 1 to 1.5 liter per day can cause insomnia, irritability, gastritis and even tachycardia, especially in caffeine -sensitive people.
In addition, people with hypertension and anxiety should be cautious. “The secret is in the right dose and the proper moment of the day,” says Fernando.
