Tag: South american drink

According to a 2018 study, drinking cold caffeinated herbal tea like yerba mate can induce a greater stimulation of thermogenesis and fat oxidation than drinking it hot. While science may weigh in, the question of do you drink yerba mate hot or cold ultimately comes down to personal preference, tradition, and desired flavor profile.

While not medically addictive in the same vein as hard drugs, yerba mate's mild dependency is comparable to coffee or tea due to its caffeine content. This unique beverage's hold on millions is not just a matter of chemistry, but a complex interplay of physiological effects, ritual, and culture. So, why is yerba mate so addicting for its devoted drinkers around the globe?

Contrary to the myth of 'mateine,' science confirms that yerba mate is not a single, novel molecule but contains caffeine, along with other natural compounds. So, is yerba mate a stimulant or a depressant, and what gives it its unique energy boost without the crash?

Containing about 80-85 mg of caffeine per 8-ounce serving, yerba mate provides an energy boost similar in strength to a cup of coffee. However, the way this energy is delivered and the drink's overall nutritional profile mean that yerba mate is considered an energy drink, but in a more natural and sustained form than many commercially produced alternatives.

Native to South America, yerba mate contains a unique combination of caffeine, theobromine, and antioxidants, distinguishing it from other teas. Understanding the pros and cons of yerba mate is key to incorporating it responsibly.