What Is Clean Cause Yerba Mate?
Clean Cause is a brand of sparkling and non-carbonated organic yerba mate energy drinks. Yerba mate, a traditional South American beverage, is made from the leaves and stems of the Ilex paraguariensis plant. The company markets itself as a better-for-you option, using organic ingredients, and famously donates a significant portion of its profits to addiction recovery.
The All-Important Ingredients
The ingredients in Clean Cause drinks vary slightly by flavor and whether they are low-calorie or zero-calorie. The key components generally include:
- Purified sparkling or still water
- Organic cane sugar (in low-calorie versions)
- Organic yerba mate extract
- Organic erythritol and organic stevia (in zero-calorie versions)
- Natural fruit flavors and citric acid
The use of organic sweeteners and avoidance of artificial flavors is a major selling point for health-conscious consumers. However, the inclusion of any sweetener, even a natural one like cane sugar, means consumers need to be mindful of their intake, especially in the low-calorie options which still contain some sugar.
The Health Benefits of Yerba Mate
As the primary ingredient, yerba mate brings several potential health benefits to the table, and Clean Cause leverages these associations in its branding.
Yerba Mate is Rich in Antioxidants
Yerba mate is known for its high antioxidant content, specifically polyphenols. These antioxidants help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to aging and various chronic diseases.
Provides a Sustained Energy Boost
Unlike the synthetic caffeine often found in traditional energy drinks, the natural caffeine in yerba mate provides a smoother, more sustained energy boost. Many consumers report experiencing less of a crash or the jitters associated with coffee or other high-caffeine beverages.
Improves Mental Clarity and Focus
The combination of caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline in yerba mate is believed to improve alertness and concentration. For those needing a mental tune-up for work or studying, this can be a significant advantage.
May Support Physical Performance
Some studies suggest yerba mate can aid in physical performance by reducing fatigue and enhancing endurance. This makes it a popular pre-workout choice for athletes seeking a more natural energy source.
Potential Downsides and Risks
Despite the benefits, it is crucial to consider the potential negatives of Clean Cause, particularly for those sensitive to caffeine or with underlying health conditions.
High Caffeine Content
With 160mg of caffeine per can, Clean Cause contains a substantial amount of stimulant. This is more than a typical cup of coffee, and excessive consumption can lead to side effects such as anxiety, insomnia, increased heart rate, and jitteriness.
Sugar Content in Some Versions
The low-calorie varieties are sweetened with organic cane sugar and contain about 8 to 15 grams of added sugar per can, depending on the flavor. While less than many traditional energy drinks, this can still contribute to overall sugar intake, which health professionals advise limiting.
Safety Considerations
The FDA does not regulate dietary supplements or energy drinks like pharmaceutical drugs. Therefore, it is important to be aware of potential interactions with medications. Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children, and individuals with heart conditions or anxiety disorders should consult a healthcare professional before consuming Clean Cause. Some long-term studies have also linked very high consumption of hot yerba mate to certain types of cancer, though this is primarily linked to the temperature and not the ingredient itself.
Clean Cause vs. Traditional Energy Drinks: A Comparison
To fully understand if Clean Cause is a good option, comparing it to traditional, sugar-laden energy drinks like Red Bull or Monster is helpful.
| Feature | Clean Cause Yerba Mate | Traditional Energy Drinks (e.g., Red Bull) |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Stimulant | Natural, organic yerba mate extract | Synthetic caffeine, sometimes taurine |
| Sweeteners | Organic cane sugar or organic erythritol/stevia | High-fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners |
| Caffeine Jitters | Generally provides a smoother, sustained boost | Often associated with a more pronounced crash |
| Antioxidants | Rich source of antioxidants from yerba mate | Typically contain few, if any, antioxidants |
| Health-Conscious Appeal | High, with organic ingredients and less sugar | Low, often with artificial additives |
| Social Mission | Funds addiction recovery with a portion of profits | Generally focused on brand promotion and market dominance |
How to Drink Clean Cause Responsibly
Enjoying Clean Cause responsibly involves being mindful of your consumption, particularly due to the high caffeine content.
- Start with a small amount. If you're sensitive to caffeine, don't chug the whole can at once.
- Check the sugar content. If you are managing your sugar intake, opt for the zero-calorie versions.
- Stay hydrated. Remember that caffeinated drinks can have a diuretic effect, so continue to drink plenty of water.
- Listen to your body. Pay attention to how your body reacts to the caffeine level and adjust your intake accordingly.
Conclusion: Is Clean Cause a Good Option for You?
When asking, “is Clean Cause good for you,” the answer depends on your personal health needs and habits. For those seeking a natural, organic, and less-processed energy boost, it is generally a better alternative than most traditional, sugar-heavy energy drinks. The use of yerba mate provides a smoother energy curve with fewer jitters, and the added antioxidants are a definite plus. Furthermore, supporting a brand with a strong social mission is a compelling factor for many.
However, the high caffeine content means it is not without risk, especially for sensitive individuals. The low-calorie versions still contain added sugar, so the zero-calorie options are preferable for those monitoring sugar intake. Like any caffeinated beverage, moderation is key. When consumed thoughtfully and in moderation, Clean Cause can be a refreshing and purposeful choice for a clean energy boost.
For more detailed information on yerba mate, consult authoritative health resources like the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) to understand broader safety and efficacy standards.
