Yerba mate is packed with bioactive compounds that may support metabolism, heart health, and even cancer prevention.
Yerba mate has long been known as a weight loss drink, and data suggests its benefits go far beyond that. Its leaves contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, which work together to provide a milder, more pleasant lift than coffee or other popular stimulating beverages.
Studies suggest yerba mate may help manage blood sugar, support heart and kidney health, and fight cancer.
Nutritional Profile of Yerba Mate
A cup of yerba mate tea contains about 80 milligrams of caffeine, similar to a cup of coffee. However, the caffeine content can vary depending on the ingredients and how the drink is prepared.
The key nutrients found in yerba mate include:
- Carbohydrates: 80.71 percent
- Proteins: 4.09 percent
- Fats: 0.90 percent
- Minerals
- Vitamins (vitamin C, B1, B2, B6)
- Purine alkaloids (caffeine, theobromine)
- Theophylline (in trace amounts)
- Polyphenols (phenolic acids, flavonoids)
- Terpenes (saponins, carotenoids)
“Compared to coffee, yerba mate offers more health benefits due to its higher levels of antioxidants, minerals, and the effects of theobromine and theophylline,” Bryan Quoc Le, a food scientist, food industry consultant, and author of the book, “150 Food Science Questions Answered,” told The Epoch Times.
Research found that drinking tea made from 8 grams of yerba mate increased antioxidant activity in the blood plasma of healthy volunteers within 1 to 2 hours. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage, reduce inflammation, and support overall health.
While caffeine is the main stimulant in yerba mate, theobromine and theophylline are mild stimulants that also contribute to its energizing effects.
“Theobromine is a chemical precursor to caffeine. While it doesn’t directly affect the central nervous system, it can increase heart rate, act as a diuretic, and help relax the airways,” said Le.
Theophylline, though present in small amounts, helps widen the airways, stimulates the central nervous system, and increases heart rate and the strength of heart muscle contractions.
By Hadia Zainab
