Is Yerba Matte an Effective Weight Loss Supplement?
by Sue Roberts

You may also see this supplement referred to by other names such as Chimarrao, Hervia,
St. Jesuit’s tea, or even by its scientific name, ilex paraguariensis (now aren’t you impressed?)

Its very commonly drunk as tea in Brazil, Argentina and Paraguay. In foods, mate is consumed
as a tea, and it is known to have stimulant as well as diuretic properties. Its use as a weight
loss aid is questionable.

Yerba mate contains caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, chemicals commonly found in
coffee, tea and chocolate. This causes yerba mate to possess both stimulant and diuretic properties. Its concentration of caffeine is less than coffee, 0.5-0.8% as opposed to 1-2%
in the latter.

Minerals such as iron, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, thiamin and riboflavin, vitamins C
and E and the known carcinogens, tannins and N-nitrosamines, are also found.

As with other herbs and plants, the concentration of these compounds is dependent on
the growing conditions of the plant, harvesting procedures and manufacturing.

In other words, variability within different yerba mate products should be expected.

Long term consumption of yerba mate increases the risk of developing certain cancers, most notably mouth, laryngeal, liver, kidney and bladder. This risk seems to be greatest when the supplement is consumed as a warm beverage, and also when it is drunk by persons who
smoke and consume alcohol.

Bottom Line: It is doubtful whether the risk of developing cancer outweighs the possible
benefit of this supplement for weight loss. If you do decide to give it a try, be careful when
using it in combination with other herbal supplements, such as bitter orange or other caffeine-containing substances.

Copyright  April 27, 2007  Sue Roberts, MPH MS RD/CN
As a certified nutritionist and registered dietitan for over 20 years, Sue is passionate about helping you become your healthiest ever! She provides completely confidential online nutrition counseling, wellness coaching and education services at www.YourOnlineNutritionist.com

Your Online Nutritionist
PO Box 4354
West Richland, WA 99353
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sue@youronlinenutritionist.com