5 good reasons to drink Yerba Mate
Consumed by millions of people every day for its energizing effects and other great benefits, yerba mate is a plant native to the South American rainforest. Some like to compare yerba mate with the energizing qualities of coffee, the benefits of green tea and the euphoria of cocoa. Yerba Mate contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline.
Theobromine is the element you need to keep in mind!
Here are 5 good reasons to drink Yerba Mate:
1- The benefits of coffee, without the downsides
Yerba mate is naturally rich in caffeine and theobromine, which provides a unique energy: no big high, no big crash, no jitters or stomach burns usually associated with caffeine consumption. It is, therefore, an excellent solution for those who are sensitive to it! Theobromine is a bitter alkaloid - also found in cacao - that is a mild stimulant. It may offer longer-acting effects than caffeine, and with fewer adverse side effects. While caffeine and theobromine have similar effects, the key difference is that caffeine has an effect on the central nervous system and theobromine most significantly affects smooth muscle, which is why many say that theobromine acts as a natural muscle relaxer.
2- Awakens the mind, improves concentration
The unique composition of yerba mate awakens the body and mind in a balanced way, keeping us alert, focused, and relaxed at the same time. Several studies suggest that people who consume yerba mate experienced the following: increased ability to concentrate, increased alertness, and improved physical energy — but without the jittery side effects often linked to caffeine. However, the testimonials found were not backed by science yet. (source)
3- Good for your health
Yerba mate contains many amino acids and is rich in antioxidants & other key nutrients, such as polyphenols. Polyphenols are a group of antioxidants that could help strengthen the immune system and may lower the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and other chronic diseases due to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties (source.)
4- May help reduce blood pressure
Various sources state that theobromine could play a role in reducing the enzymes in the blood which cause vascular constriction. Theobromine may help with vasodilatation: impacting your vessels to widen up, allowing blood to flow more freely throughout your body.
5- Great for physical activity
Before physical activity: Consuming caffeine before physical activity is known to improve endurance and performance.
During physical activity: Thanks to its high content of antioxidants, yerba mate is also appreciated by athletes during training, since these could contribute to the reduction of lactic acid accumulation and, therefore, could reduce the burning sensation in the muscles during physical exercise.
After physical activity: Yerba mate is known for its high content of antioxidants, which are valued for their anti-inflammatory effects, helping in muscle recovery.
One last word
The are many to enjoy the benefits of yerba mate. Are you a fan of tea and infusions? You can discover the yerba mate infusion with the calebasse (gourd) and bombilla. Do you prefer ready-to-drink options? There's a booming choice of drinks - and different flavours - for you to discover out there.
A word of advice: prioritize organic & unsmoked Yerba Mate, a safer choice for your health.