Mate is a traditional South American beverage, specifically consumed in Argentina, Uruguay, Paraguay, and certain regions of Brazil. It is prepared from the dried and chopped leaves of yerba mate, a shrub of the holly family.
Although it tends to be confused with tea, it is not part of the tea family since its leaves do not come from the tea plant, quite simply.
This beverage has a unique taste, which I place between green tea and coffee.
I discovered that there are several studies on the benefits of mate for our physical and mental health. And when consumed daily, there are particularly 10 benefits that I list below.
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1. Rich in antioxidants
Mate contains a large amount of antioxidants, comparable to those present in green tea. These substances help combat cellular aging and prevent chronic diseases.
This study examined the antioxidant capacity of mate in our body.
2. Promotes weight loss
Thanks to the presence of caffeine, this beverage could help reduce appetite and increase energy expenditure, thus promoting weight loss.
In this publication, it is stated that mate improves lipid parameters in humans and animals, making it an interesting beverage in the fight against obesity.
According to this study, mate and its caffeine could stimulate fat oxidation, especially during physical exercises.
3. Boosts the immune system
This plant contains saponins, natural compounds known for their beneficial effects on the immune system, but also in preventing certain cancers.
Saponins are molecules found in plants that have numerous pharmacological properties: expectorant, emulsifying, antimicrobial, bactericidal.
This study examined the effects of saponins in the prevention and treatment of cancer.
4. Has anti-inflammatory properties
These saponins, coupled with the action of antioxidants present in mate, help reduce oxidative stress on cells and thus reduce inflammation.
This beverage could therefore help combat inflammation of certain conditions. This is suggested by this recent study on mate.
5. Helps reduce cholesterol
When consuming mate, a significant decrease in total fat intake and saturated fatty acids can be observed. It also helps lower bad cholesterol, thereby contributing to the reduction of cardiovascular diseases.
Certain studies have noted that mate aids in reducing cholesterol by improving the level of serum lipids.
6. Enhances physical performance
The caffeine present in mate could improve athletic performance, by increasing strength and endurance.
This well-known substance stimulates the central nervous system, making it more alert and vigilant. In case of intense sports activity, caffeine also reduces the feeling of fatigue to enhance performance.
According to this study, a small dose of caffeine increases alertness, mood, and concentration during and after exercise, with few to no side effects.
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7. May relieve pain
Also cultivated in India, mate is part of the Ayurvedic pharmacopoeia.
In infusion or poultice form, it helps relieve headaches, pain related to rheumatism, fatigue, or even depression.
8. May aid digestion
Mate promotes digestion by stimulating the production of bile and other gastric juices.
But beware, like coffee, when consumed in excess, it can also cause intestinal discomfort.
9. Diuretic properties
Like coffee or tea, mate has diuretic properties that can reduce water retention in the body.
Indeed, the caffeine in mate promotes renal water elimination and reduces sodium reabsorption. As a result, we feel the urge to urinate more frequently.
10. Source of Vitamins and Minerals
If consumed regularly, mate provides a good intake of vitamins and minerals. It contains many essential minerals, including potassium, magnesium, and manganese, as well as vitamins B and C.
As part of a balanced diet, it helps to supplement your daily intake. Few beverages contain as many vitamins and minerals.
My Tips to Enjoy the Benefits of Mate
To fully enjoy the benefits I’ve just listed, you need to drink it regularly. And to consume a beverage daily, or even replace your morning coffee, the key is not to get tired of it.
You don’t have to consume it in a gourd with a bombilla; simply infuse it in your teapot. There are several ways to prepare it: iced mate, traditional mate, in a cocktail, or even as a mate latte with milk.
Also choose it according to your tastes: green mate for a light and slightly bitter taste, aged mate more intense and bold, roasted mate for a caramel/cocoa taste.
However, be careful, mate also has some contraindications just like caffeine-rich beverages.
