Still unknown and confidential in France - whereas it is widely consumed in South America and particularly in Argentina -, yerba mate is gaining in popularity thanks to its singular taste and its numerous benefits for health and the body. Stimulating, antioxidant, appetite suppressant... the drink has all the right points. And the last one not to be forgotten: its draining and diuretic effect. Explanations.
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Mate, a naturally diuretic and draining drink?
When we talk about diuretic, what are we actually talking about? This adjective refers to substances that increase the elimination of sodium (a mineral salt) and water by the kidneys. Diuretic foods or drinks (such as coffee, artichokes, asparagus, etc.) allow the body to eliminate more salt and water than it normally would. This elimination takes place via urinary secretions. As a result of this elimination of salt, blood pressure falls, which is good for our cardiovascular system. Black tea, green tea and mate are not "diuretic" in the true sense of the word.
This is often a shortcut that we tend to make. However, mate and all teas obviously promote elimination. Thanks to the caffeine present in its leaves, the yerba mate plant is considered to be a draining plant. It improves the functioning of the kidneys by stimulating the production of bile and stomach acids. This ultimately boosts digestion and reduces the risk of constipation.
Mate, a source of hydration
Do you drink the 1.5 to 2 litres of water per day that you need to be healthy? Not necessarily, and you are far from being an isolated case. So it's important to remember to rehydrate throughout the day. The trick to drinking more is to add hot drinks, such as tea or mate, to your usual water intake. This allows you to vary the pleasures and add a little fantasy, originality.
Can mate be both draining and hydrating?
If it seems paradoxical at first - to bring water to the body and at the same time encourage its elimination - the two effects complement each other. By drinking mate, the body benefits from the water it needs to function, and then the water is eliminated (along with the toxins!) when it is no longer needed. In short, mate will be very useful for eliminating waste from the body, but afterwards you should remember to keep drinking water to stay hydrated.
Is mate a slimming ally?
Mate is said to have an appetite suppressant effect, forcing the body to draw on its fat reserves. Its infusion is therefore recommended in certain slimming diets. Moreover, mate, like all hydrating drinks, is recommended to fight against water retention. This develops when the body is dehydrated and "retains" liquids in the tissues.
The result is an accumulation of water in various places in the body, to which can then be added excess fat, which is less easily eliminated by the lymphatic system. This is where cellulite sets in. Drinking mate would allow, among other lifestyle rules (regular sports practice, balanced diet...), to prevent this phenomenon.
The other benefits of yerba mate
Besides its draining and diuretic effect, mate has many health benefits! Among other things, it is a great natural stimulant because of its high caffeine content. Yes, the same molecule that is present in coffee. Drinking a cup of mate during the day will give you the boost you are looking for!
But mate is also a powerful antioxidant thanks to its richness in polyphenols. These molecules are essential for the proper functioning of the body and for maintaining good health! Antioxidants are said to help fight against the action of free radicals and premature ageing of cells. They are also said to have an effect on strengthening the immune system.
Mate, the drink of top athletes
In recent years, mate has become a popular drink for sportsmen and women, for its draining and anti-oxidant properties and for its boosting effect. Footballers such as Lionel Messi, Antoine Griezmann and Paul Pogba have been seen drinking it on the pitch.
As you can see, yerba mate is a drink with multiple health benefits! But this one is particularly notable for its draining and diuretic properties. This makes it easier to eliminate! You can also drink it if you are looking for a boost or antioxidant effect.
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