A recent study has revealed that yerba maté, a popular caffeinated beverage from Uruguay, could offer health benefits similar to GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, which are often used for weight management and blood sugar regulation.
Yerba maté, which is consumed widely in Uruguay and other parts of South America, has long been appreciated for its energizing properties, making it a preferred alternative to coffee for many. The tea is noted for its refreshing flavor, which shares similarities with green tea, and now, scientific research suggests it might have more to offer than just caffeine.
Researchers from Brigham Young University have conducted a study that highlights yerba maté’s potential to elevate levels of glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), a hormone responsible for regulating blood sugar and appetite. The findings, published in the journal Nutrients, showed that when mice were given yerba maté over the course of four weeks, their GLP-1 levels increased significantly. This is noteworthy because GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and Wegovy work similarly to control blood sugar and hunger, which are key components of effective weight management.
However, it’s important to note that the beneficial effects of yerba maté occur only after it interacts with gut bacteria in the human digestive system. The process begins when the ferulic acid in yerba maté is broken down by gut microbes into dihydroferulic acid, a compound that further promotes the production of GLP-1. This interaction between yerba maté and the microbiome illustrates how the body’s natural processes enhance the drink’s potential benefits.
While yerba maté isn’t the only caffeinated beverage to aid in weight loss, experts suggest that its effects might be more pronounced than previously thought. According to Kathleen Moore, RDN, LD, a registered dietitian at The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, caffeine in general can stimulate adrenaline, helping to break down fat, curb appetite, and boost physical activity. Yet, studies indicate that coffee, especially when consumed without added sugars or cream, might have a stronger impact on weight loss due to its higher caffeine content. Yerba maté, however, is not far behind in terms of its caffeine levels.
A 2021 study published in Nutrients found that a typical serving of yerba maté—about eight ounces—contains 128 milligrams of caffeine, which is slightly more than the 95 milligrams found in a similar serving of coffee. This makes yerba maté a worthy contender for those seeking an alternative source of caffeine that may also support weight management.
In summary, if you’re looking to manage your weight or boost your energy levels, yerba maté could be a beneficial addition to your routine. Its combination of caffeine and GLP-1-enhancing properties makes it a drink worth considering.
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