What are the benefits of mate?

Immerse yourself in the revitalising world of mate, this emblematic South American drink with energising properties. Discover how drinking it can not only boost your day, but also bring considerable benefits to your overall health. We explore the ancient secrets and scientific evidence behind mate, to reveal why this infusion deserves its rightful place in your wellbeing routine.

The roots and cultural resonance of mate

Maté, the precious heritage of the indigenous peoples of South America, in particular the Guaranis, has survived the centuries. Traditionally consumed for its stimulating and medicinal properties, this plant was already renowned long before the arrival of European settlers. Over time, mate has become an integral part of social and cultural rituals, becoming a symbol of conviviality and exchange. Drinking it is more than just a daily ritual; it is an act of sharing and community, deeply rooted in the traditions of countries such as Argentina, Paraguay, Uruguay and southern Brazil.

Varieties and qualities of mate :

In the heart of South America, mate comes in many varieties, each with its own taste and quality characteristics. From the mild maté of Argentina, renowned for its finesse, to the more robust and bitter Paraguayan maté, not forgetting the Uruguayan and Brazilian selections, the range of flavours is vast. The quality of mate is influenced by many factors, such as climate, soil, altitude, and harvesting and drying methods. Connoisseurs will look for brands that respect traditional production methods, guaranteeing an authentic, top-quality product.

What are the benefits of mate?

Mate, scientifically known asIlex paraguariensis, is much more than just a stimulating South American drink. Its nutrient-rich leaves offer a range of benefits that have attracted the attention of the international scientific community. Mate is distinguished by its high antioxidant content, even surpassing that of green tea. These compounds play a crucial role in combating oxidative stress and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

Recent studies have highlighted mate’sbeneficial effect on weight loss, thanks to its ability to reduce appetite, increase metabolism and promote fat oxidation during exercise. In addition, the presence of polyphenols, saponins and xanthines helps to improve overall health, with notable anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties.

In terms of cognitive performance, regular consumption of mate appears to boost mental energy and concentration, without the undesirable effects often associated with coffee. This beverage is also recognised for its potential to slow down the ageing process thanks to its ability to inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs), biomarkers implicated in the development of degenerative diseases.

It is important to stress that, although promising, these benefits should be viewed with caution, as not all the effects have yet been studied in humans. It is advisable to consult a health professional before taking mate as an adjunct to medical treatment.

What are its effects on mental health?

As well as its physical benefits, mate also plays an important role in regulating our mental health, particularly by reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety

Reducing stress and anxiety

One of mate’s most valued qualities is its potential to reduce stress and anxiety. The active components in mate, notably theobromine and theophylline, play a crucial role in regulating mood and reducing nervous tension. Unlike other stimulants, the caffeine in mate acts in a more balanced way, providing a feeling of alertness without the restlessness often associated with coffee. This characteristic makes mate a preferred choice for those seeking to maintain good mental health while benefiting from an energy boost.

Studies have shown that regular consumption of mate can have a positive effect on the neurotransmitters associated with relaxation and well-being, such as serotonin and dopamine. This suggests that mate may be beneficial in managing symptoms of stress and anxiety, contributing to a calmer, more harmonious state of mind.

Influence on mood

As well as reducing stress, mate appears to have a positive impact on overall mood. This is probably due to the combination of its stimulating and relaxing components, creating a balance that promotes a feeling of well-being. Indeed, mate consumption has been associated with improved mood and reduced feelings of depression in some individuals. This may be particularly relevant in the current context, where many people are looking for natural solutions to manage their mental health.

It is important to note that, although promising, these effects require further investigation to fully understand the underlying mechanisms. Nevertheless, the inclusion of mate in a daily routine could be a beneficial approach to improving emotional balance and mental well-being, particularly in a world where stress and anxiety are omnipresent.

A real antioxidant cocktail

Yerba mate contains a number of plant nutrients that are essential to our health. What’s more, its antioxidant role appears to be slightly greater than that of green tea:

• Xanthines: real stimulants, they include caffeine and theobromine. Also found in tea, coffee and chocolate.
• Caffeoyl derivatives: the main antioxidants in tea, they promote good health.
• Saponins : Anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering bitter compounds.
• Polyphenols : Antioxidants, linked to a reduced risk of many diseases.

Maté: A valuable fat-burning aid

Rich in caffeine and theobromine, mate is also an important source of antioxidants, potassium and magnesium, all of which are essential for health and well-being. Scientific research has studied the impact of mate on weight loss, revealing its beneficial properties.

2001 study: Effectiveness of mate in reducing weight

A 2001 scientific study looked at 47 overweight adults and found that regular consumption of mate – three times a day over a period of 45 days – could significantly reduce body weight. Participants reported an accelerated feeling of satiety, contributing to lower calorie consumption.

2009 research: Maté and the genetics of obesity

A 2009 publication highlighted mate’s ability to influence the expression of genes associated with obesity, suggesting a potential beneficial effect against this condition. Although this study was carried out on animals, it opens up interesting prospects for future research on humans.

Thermogenic properties of mate

Mate is also known for its thermogenic properties, which may play a role in fat burning. Although the scientific evidence is limited, testimonials and some preliminary studies support the idea that it may promote weight loss.

Caffeine and metabolism The presence of caffeine in mate is known to reduce appetite and stimulate metabolism, making weight management easier.

Mate and sport

Thanks to its unique properties, mate offers a number of benefits for both amateur and professional athletes. Firstly, its caffeine content makes it an effective natural stimulant, ideal for boosting energy levels before exercise. Unlike traditional energy drinks, mate provides amore stable and sustained energy surge, without the spikes and dips often associated with other sources of caffeine.

What’s more, mate’s antioxidant compounds, such as polyphenols, play a crucial role in preventing oxidative stress induced by intense exercise. This can contribute to better muscle recovery and reduced tissue damage, enabling athletes to maintain high levels of performance over longer periods.

Use of mate in training routines

Mate can be incorporated into training routines in a number of ways. Drinking mate before training can help to improve concentration and endurance, enabling athletes to stay focused and energised throughout their session. In addition, the presence of essential minerals such as potassium and magnesium in mate contributes to better regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance, a key factor in sports performance.

Mate can also be beneficial after exercise. Its anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties aid recovery, reducing muscle soreness and promoting physical and mental relaxation. This is particularly relevant for athletes undergoing regular intensive training.

Finally, it’s important to stress that maté consumption should be part of a balanced lifestyle and a diet tailored to the specific needs of each athlete. Although mate offers undeniable benefits, it is no substitute for adequate hydration, balanced nutrition and sufficient rest, all of which are fundamental to optimum sporting performance.

What are the digestive health benefits of mate?

Let’s explore how drinking mate can positively influence our digestive system, a crucial aspect of our overall well-being:

Digestive properties

Mate is also renowned for its benefits for digestive health. It contains compounds such as xanthines and saponins, which aid digestion by stimulating the production of bile and other digestive enzymes. This action facilitates the breakdown of food, particularly fats, and can help prevent digestive disorders such as constipation and feelings of heaviness.

Maté also has choleretic properties, promoting the secretion of bile by the liver. This contributes to better digestion of fats and optimal absorption of fat-soluble nutrients such as vitamins A, D, E and K. In addition, its mild diuretic action helps prevent water retention, contributing to better digestive comfort.

Effects on intestinal flora

As well as improving digestion, mate has a positive impact on the intestinal flora, also known as the microbiota. The polyphenols present in mate act as prebiotics, substances that encourage the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestine. A healthy intestinal flora plays a crucial role in overall health, not only by aiding digestion, but also by strengthening the immune system and even influencing mood and mental well-being.

Research indicates that regular consumption of mate can help maintain a healthy balance of intestinal microbiota. This can be particularly beneficial for people suffering from intestinal imbalances, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), by helping to reduce associated symptoms such as bloating, abdominal pain and bowel irregularities.

How should mate be consumed?

Mate is fairly easy to find in tea and coffee shops, organic food shops and on the Internet.
Mate is prepared in the same way as conventional tea, and is even available in sachet form.
To have a positive effect on weight loss, it is advisable to drink at least three cups a day. It contains caffeine, but has none of the side effects, so there’s nothing to stop you drinking it in the evening.

To find all the mate-based products and food supplements on our online organic pharmacy, simply type the word ‘mate’ in the search bar.

Traditional preparation of mate :

The preparation of this beverage follows an unchanging social and cultural ritual. It all starts with the calabash, often a dried, hollowed-out fruit, which serves as the cup. The dried mate leaves are placed in the cup and then sprinkled with hot, but not boiling, water so as not to burn the leaves. The bombilla, a metal filtering straw, is then inserted so that the infusion can be drunk without ingesting the leaves. This method preserves the flavours and benefits of the plant.

Variety of uses :

Maté is not just a simple infusion. It can be used in a wide range of products, from soft drinks and energy drinks to dietary supplements. Its unique flavour is also used in gastronomy, in the preparation of desserts and even cocktails, demonstrating its versatility and increasing integration into modern cuisine.

Read more:

1. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18034743/
2. http://www.ncc.umn.edu/food-and-nutrient-database/