Yerba mate vs coffee

Yerba mate and coffee have similar properties. Above them all, the one which stands out is the fact that both have caffeine, therefore similar effects.

Many even use mate when training or doing activities that require a greater effort of concentration, since it has the energizing property of, informally speaking, “waking you up”. 

Let’s start first with coffee’s properties, so you will automatically see how many are repeated in the case of mate:

1- It is rich in antioxidants

One of the biggest benefits is that coffee is very rich in polyphenols, which are partly absorbed by our body. These are mainly present in green coffee beans, although a part is removed by roasting.

2- Activate the mind

Caffeine is the component of coffee that stimulates us. In addition, it is responsible for improving some cognitive functions such as accelerating brain processes and improving memory. It helps us to be more awake, attentive and focused throughout the day.

3- Suitable for athletes

It is beneficial for those people who practice sports or have to make a significant physical effort. Caffeine acts on the nervous system and causes fatigue to be perceived later, thus increasing performance. 

4- Fight Parkinson’s

For several years, the relationship between coffee consumption and diseases such as Parkinson’s has been studied. The conclusion is that regular consumption of this drink reduces the probability of suffering from these ailments in the future.

5- It is good for the heart

Contrary to what was assumed a few years ago, coffee is suitable for those with high blood pressure, since it does not have a negative effect. A study in the journal American Heart indicates that the consumption of up to four cups of coffee a day has a cardioprotective effect and this is thanks to antioxidants. However, always consider that extremes are not good. 

1- An energizing effect like almost none

The effects of caffeine in mate can be less aggressive than those of coffee, which in some cases can cause nervousness or even tachycardia.

The restorative property of mate on the mind and body is different from coffee and other caffeinated beverages since it has a double stimulating and relaxing effect. This effect occurs thanks to the presence of other xanthines (stimulating substances) in yerba mate. As an example, one of these substances is theobromine, whose effect is softer and longer lasting. 

In addition, the caffeine contained in yerba mate is usually more diluted in a greater amount of water than in coffee, and added to the fact that it is taken periodically, it is better tolerated by our body.

Drinking mate throughout the day also increases physical endurance and lifts your spirits, without affecting the quality of sleep or rest.

The infusion of yerba mate generates a more benevolent feeling of “waking up” at any time of the day, ideal for studying or working.

Athletes also take advantage of the benefits of mate before training or even after each training session.

Yerba mate can be the perfect replacement for commercial energy drinks, providing many more benefits while avoidin the adverse effects generated by these artificial drinks with a high content of stimulants and sugar.

2- Superfood

The hot infusion of yerba mate is one of the most nutritious infusions that exist, as confirmed by many scientific studies. It contains, in a natural way, almost all the micronutrients that the body needs and in this way it can be considered as a superfood.

It is capable of improving the immune system by detoxifying the body, regulating cholesterol and preventing many diseases.

Yerba mate provides antioxidants and polyphenols, it is rich in minerals, amino acids and essential vitamins, mainly from group B, where eight of the 13 vitamins that the body needs are found.

In addition, it contains very important minerals such as potassium and magnesium, which promote proper heart function, and is loaded with many other nutrients. 

3- Purifies and detoxifies

Thanks to the existance of some leaves that yerba mate contain which have diuretic properties that help the body eliminate toxins, drinking mate purifies the body. 

The human body consumes much more liquid than when drinking coffee and prevents it from accumulating in the body’s tissues by optimizing kidney function, minimizing the risk of high blood pressure.

Mate also causes a mild laxative effect and stimulates bowel movement, stimulating natural waste process. That is why it is usually recommended for people who suffer from constipation.

This is an ideal benefit for those looking to lose weight or have fewer toxins in the body.

4- A better companion

Mate consumption also has positive effects on mental and emotional health. It is often said that it is “the best companion” at any time of the day. Drinking mate guarantees having the enough energy needed for the day’s tasks thanks to its caffeine content, which provides the necessary boost in a gradual and mind-friendly way.

In addition, as it is drunk more slowly, this “injection of energy” is also better dosed.

And not only does it last longer, but also, thanks to feeding and drinking in the same container, it usually stimulates relationships between people. Although the pandemic influenced the custom of sharing mate, it is still a custom that is imposed over time.

5- Countless properties

The contributions that drinking mate brings to your body are so many and so varied that the list would be endless. Here we leave you a brief point:

• Yerba mate contains polyphenols that provide extraordinary benefits for your health and powerful effects that counteract the damage suffered by cells.
• It has healing properties that prevent diseases such as Parkinson’s, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s and colon cancer.
• It has a slight hypotensive and vasodilator effect that improves pressure levels and prevents bad cholesterol from accumulating in the arteries, thanks to cardioprotective enzymes.
• Promotes good digestion of food. Yerba mate stimulates the production of bile and gastric acids, as well as intestinal movement, relieving constipation.