Yerba mate: what it is, benefits and how to prepare the infusion

Published

11 months ago

April 29, 2024

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Table of Contents

Benefits of yerba mate
What are its properties
How much can you take
How to prepare it
- 1. Yerba mate tea
  - Ingredients
  - Preparation method
- 2. Tereré
  - Ingredients
  - Preparation method
- Possible side effects of yerba mate
- Contraindications
- Related
- Yerba mate is a medicinal plant that has a thin gray stem, oval leaves, and small green or purple-red fruits.
  It is widely consumed in Argentina, the southern region of Brazil, Uruguay, Chile, and Paraguay, being used mainly as a non-alcoholic beverage for socialization in these countries.
  
  This plant is rich in caffeine and is characterized by the fact that it is consumed in a container called mate, pore, or porongo or “zucchini”, which has a kind of metal straw called a light bulb, which has small holes that prevent the leaves pass through it.
  
  Its scientific name is Ilex paraguariensis and its herb can be bought dry or in the form of drops in natural products stores, in supermarkets, or online stores.
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  Benefits of yerba mate
  
  Yerba mate may provide several health benefits including:
  
  Lower cholesterol, as it is rich in antioxidants and contains saponins, which help reduce “bad” LDL cholesterol, thus preventing the appearance of atherosclerosis and other heart diseases such as a heart attack or stroke;
  
  Promote weight loss, as some studies indicated that it delays gastric emptying and increases the feeling of fullness.
  
  In addition to this, it is believed that it may have effects on adipose tissue, controlling some genes related to obesity, such as inflammatory markers;
  
  Act as an antibacterial, acting against Streptococcus mutans, which is found in the oral cavity and is one of the main causative agents of tooth decay. In addition, it has also been seen properties against other bacteria such as Bacillus subtilis, Brevibacterium ammoniagenes, Propionibacterium acnes, Staphylococcus aureus, among others;
  
  Prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, because it helps regulate blood sugar and some types of cancer. This is because yerba mate is rich in antioxidants that prevent damage caused by free radicals to cells, as well as having anti-inflammatory properties;
  
  Act as an antifungal, against microorganisms such as Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Candida utilis, Pityrosporum ovale, Penicillium chrysogenum, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes ;
  
  Stimulate the body, improve mood and improve concentration, as it is rich in caffeine and B vitamins, the latter are important micronutrients for the proper functioning of metabolism, acting as coenzymes that participate in the reactions of the catabolism of nutrients, to obtain energy from food consumed;
  
  Help increase defenses, because it has vitamin C, E, and other minerals that help strengthen the immune system.
  
  In addition to this, it could improve blood circulation, as it contains potassium, a mineral that helps relax the arteries, allowing blood to pass more easily.
  
  What are its properties
  
  Yerba mate has in its composition caffeine, saponins, polyphenols, xanthines, theophylline, theobromine, folic acid, tannins, minerals, and vitamins A, B1, B2, C, and E. For this reason, it acts as an antioxidant, diuretic, mild laxative, stimulant, antidiabetic, antiobesity, anticancer, antibacterial, antifungal, hypocholesterolemic, and aid indigestion.
  
  How much can you take
  
  Some scientific studies usually use a dose of 3 cups of 330 ml each of yerba mate per day for up to 60 days.
  
  It is also known that it is safe to drink up to 1.5L a day, but it has not been shown that in higher doses there can be toxicity.
  
  In the case of consuming a yerba mate extract supplement, the recommendation is between 1000 to 1500 mg per day.
  
  How to prepare it
  
  There are different ways to prepare yerba mate, it can be eaten cold, hot, combined with some natural juices and even milk.
  
  1. Yerba mate tea
  
  Ingredients
  
  Yerba mate;
  
  Boiling water.
  
  Preparation method
  
  Place the yerba mate halfway through the mate, cover it with your hand and shake it for 10 seconds, leaving the yerba towards one of the sides of the mate, leaving it at an angle of approximately 45º.
  
  Next, pour the warm water, moistening the bottom of the mate and letting it rest for a few seconds, this process is called priming.
  
  Introduce the bulb in the humid area and rest it on the wall of the mate. Add jets of hot water where the bulb is located, trying not to wet the top of the yerba and drink.
  
  2. Tereré
  
  Ingredients
  
  Yerba mate for tereré;
  
  Coldwater and ice.
  
  Preparation method
  
  Fill 1/2 glass with yerba mate, add cold water, ice, and if you want some fruit juice. Fit the bulb, prime, and drink.
  
  Possible side effects of yerba mate
  
  Its consumption is safe, however, since it contains caffeine, yerba mate can in some cases cause insomnia or difficulty sleeping.
  
  Contraindications
  
  Mate is contraindicated in children, pregnant women, and people with insomnia, nervousness, anxiety problems, or high blood pressure, due to its high caffeine content.
  
  In addition, in the case of diabetic patients, this drink should only be used under the guidance of the doctor; since it lowers blood sugar levels and it may be necessary to adapt the treatment.

Related Topics:advantages benefits contraindications disadvantages health nutrition side effects terere benefits uses virtues

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14 Benefits of Oolong tea and side effects Table of Contents

Published

11 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

For those who do not know anything about Oolong tea, we must start by telling you that it is a drink that is processed and grown in large quantities in both Taiwan and China, the benefits of oolong tea are well recognized in much of the world because being semi-fermented usually obtains a very particular flavor that differs from black and green tea respectively.

Also known as wu long, this tea takes its name from the Chinese harvester of the same name who created it, being native to China, it is often served in Chinese restaurants with meals and is commonly known as “Chinese restaurant tea”, which More importantly, Oolong tea is believed to be good for treating a myriad of medical conditions and for caring for both hair and skin health.

What is Oolong tea?

Although this tea is located in the same family as green tea and black tea, the main difference between all of them is that the processing of all these infusions is different, for example, the sachets or leaves with which you make green tea, raisins previously by a heating process to eradicate the oxidation of this plant, but when these leaves are allowed to oxidize, the popular oolong tea is formed.

While, when it is left to oxidize for a longer time, these same leaves obtain a darker hue that finally gives way to the popular and traditional Chinese black tea.

Thus, green tea is unoxidized, oolong tea is semi-oxidized, and black tea is fully oxidized.

Fresh tea leaves are high in catechins. Having an oxidation rate of about 10%-70%, this tea is the richest among all other varieties in that it not only tastes strong and refreshing but is also clear and fragrant.

Oolong tea benefits health care.

In addition to its pleasant flavor and refreshing aroma, oolong tea benefits health in several ways.

It is more beneficial than other tea varieties because it has the combined qualities of green and black teas.

Since it contains significantly smaller amounts of caffeine compared to the other varieties, it is considered a suitable choice for those who are sensitive to caffeine. Some of the benefits of oolong tea for your health are the following:

1.- Cardiovascular benefits

Regular consumption of oolong tea is known to lower cholesterol levels, thereby reducing the risk of heart attacks.

For years it has been studied and proven that all those people who eat or have access to at least one or six cups of oolong tea per week have a greater chance of not relapsing or catching certain diseases that can affect the proper functioning of the heart.

2.- Fight free radicals

Skin lipids are essential for vibrant-looking skin. Free radicals speed up the aging process by converting skin lipids into lipid peroxide, this produces dark spots and skin pigmentation.

The polyphenols found in oolong leaves eradicate free radicals from our bodies, thus slowing down the aging process.

3.- Control obesity

The polyphenol compound present in oolong tea benefits improves enzymes.

Therefore, daily consumption of oolong tea promotes weight loss and reduces obesity by accelerating the lipolysis process that allows the body to burn more fat.

What is meant by this? Well, the benefits of oolong tea are excellent for a healthier way to lose weight, so consider it a good option for you.

4.- Prevents dental caries

Oolong tea improves oral health by inhibiting the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and oral cancer.

Among the great benefits of oolong tea are some famous antioxidants known as polyphenols, which are quite functional because they can contribute to the comprehensive improvement of health and dental hygiene, which is why it is considered that intake.

The consequence of oolong tea helps prevent plaque build-up, fights cavities, and decreases the appearance of cavities.

5.- Properties against cancer

All those people who add oolong tea to their diet have the advantage of considerably reducing the risk of suffering from some types of cancer but in particular skin cancer.

The concentration of polymeric polyphenols like thearubigin and theaflavin is higher in oolong tea compared to other varieties, these antioxidants fight carcinogens and help reduce cancer risk.

In addition, they can promote what is known as apoptosis, which is nothing more than the programmed cell death of any cancerous growth that may occur in the stomach, the best thing about this is that they can act as chemopreventives that suppress other forms of cancer, such as ovarian cancer in women for example.

6.- Development of healthy bones

The antioxidants present in oolong tea protect against tooth decay and strengthen bone structure. It is very effective in preventing osteoporosis in the human body.

7.- Treatment of diabetes

Oolong tea has higher concentrations of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, calcium, potassium, selenium, fluoride, magnesium, and phosphorous.

These nutrients rid the body of toxins, optimize digestion and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes.

8.- Relieves stress

The natural polyphenols present in most oolong tea act as stress busters and ease mood swings.

Some claim that those who drink a little oolong tea for part of the day can maintain better brain focus and extraordinary mental health.

9.- Fight Bacterial Infections

Another particularity certified within the benefits of oolong tea is that thanks to its antioxidants this drink can effectively combat all bacterial infections that can attack the body, this is achieved thanks to the inhibition of the growth of some varieties of streptococcus.

Benefits of Oolong tea for the skin.

Regular consumption of oolong tea works wonders for the skin, but let us detail one by one what are those benefits of oolong tea that can work wonders for skincare.

10.- Treatment of atopic dermatitis

Atopic dermatitis or eczema is a chronic skin disease characterized by itching, redness, swelling, scarring, and sometimes infection of lesions due to frequent scratching.

Various studies and medical research have determined that people who unify their dermatological treatment with the consumption of oolong tea have a greater chance of showing prompt relief than those who only limit themselves to biological treatment.

11.- Anti-aging benefits

It is well known that when a person is frequently exposed to free radicals, the more opportunities they will have to age, this is because the skin’s natural exfoliation process slows down and results in the appearance of premature wrinkles and dark spots. dark.

Around this, it has been proven that within the benefits of oolong tea are the necessary antioxidants that work to slow down cellular oxidation, this guarantees healthy and lush skin.

12.- Improves the vitality of the skin

Many are the people who want to show off a more elastic and more youthful skin, unaware that one of the benefits of oolong tea is precisely this, in case you did not know, this infusion regulates wrinkles and improves the tone of your skin.

The polyphenols present in the tea protect the skin from any damage it may cause due to sun exposure.

Oolong tea benefits hair

The benefits of tea for healthy hair have just come to light and are being used more and more in several hair care products.

Oolong tea, being an herbal infusion created from tender parts of the plant such as flowers, buds, and leaves, promotes healthy hair growth.

13.- Prevention of hair loss

The antioxidants that are added within oolong tea benefits are known to ensure proper metabolism of the male hormone, DHT, as any change in its metabolic activity results in hair loss.

Making a tea rinse with these leaves is of great benefit in preventing excessive shedding of hair.

14.- Promotes healthy and shiny hair

A tea rinse made with oolong tea is mild and pleasant. It not only softens but also provides extra shine to your hair.

Oolong Tea Nutrition Facts.

Oolong tea is rich in antioxidants. It contains various minerals such as calcium, manganese, copper, carotene, selenium, potassium, and vitamins A, B, C, E, and K; In addition to these, it contains folic acid, niacinamide, and other detoxifying alkaloids.

Due to its semi-fermented nature, oolong tea contains numerous polyphenolic compounds that provide additional health benefits.

These tea leaves, like all the others, also contain trace amounts of caffeine.

The steeping process during tea preparation significantly reduces the caffeine content. A one-minute soak time reduces the caffeine content below 50 mg.

Oolong tea preparation method.

Oolong tea has a great flavor and can be consumed hot or cold. The maceration time of the leaves and the number of infusions depend on the variety of tea leaves used. The preparation method is simple and easy, here is what you need to do:

•Start by boiling some water in a kettle. Meanwhile, she rinses and heats the tea set.

•Add some oolong tea leaves to the pot so that they take up almost 5% of the space in the pot.

•Now pour boiling water (180-200 F) into the pot and push out the white floating bubbles that form on top with the help of the cover.

•Cover the kettle for a few minutes and let it steep.

The tea is now ready to drink. Pour it into teacups and savor its delicate aroma and rich flavor.

Precautions about Oolong tea.

Oolong tea is a wonderful tea, as is evident from the variety of benefits it offers. However, it is advisable to exercise caution and consume it in moderation, since this tea contains a certain amount of caffeine, drinking too much can cause side effects ranging from mild to severe headaches, nervousness, irritable bowel syndrome, irregular heartbeat, vomiting, heartburn, etc.

Pregnant women are advised to keep a tab on the number of cups of tea they consume in a day, as too much caffeine could harm the baby. Keep these tips in mind and keep enjoying your cup of tea!

Health

Contraindications of drinking green tea

Published

11 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Discover the contraindications of drinking green tea.

Drinking green tea in excess can cause some harmful side effects for the body, which are necessary to know

Green tea is one of the most popular in the world. In addition to having a characteristic flavor, its different properties make it a highly beneficial drink for health, mainly due to its antioxidant power. However, its consumption also includes a series of contraindications

Among the benefits of green tea highlights its ability to improve memory, helps lose body fat, increases physical performance, is stimulating, can prevent different types of cancer, and even reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Among all the types of green tea that exist, matcha stands out, a tea of oriental origin with important properties for health and that stands out for its powder composition. In recent years it has become the travel companion of celebrities, athletes, and famous people.

Contraindications of drinking green tea

Many people have incorporated green tea into their day-to-day. The truth is that it is a great choice since it can provide energy to face the workday, accelerate the metabolism, and can even help improve mood.

However, like any food, the consumption of green tea carries a series of contraindications that it is necessary to know.

Thus, from ‘Todo Disca’ we are going to expose some of the negative effects that the ingestion of this type of infusions can produce.

In this sense, researchers from the National Institute of Health of the United States affirm that the consumption of green tea mixed with different medications, such as contraceptive pills, antibiotics, stimulants, or alcohol can be harmful to health.

And these are some of the side effects that excess green tea consumption can generate for the body:

1. Irritability: Some people feel some discomfort at the time of their intake. That is to say, it produces an effect contrary to the one they seek at first.

2. Insomnia: Green tea can cause sleep problems for many people. And is that it is a stimulating drink that contains some doses of caffeine, although in a lower proportion than traditional coffee.

3. Dizziness and nausea: This infusion can be heavy for delicate stomachs and generate some type of gastrointestinal discomfort. Therefore, it is not advisable to take on an empty stomach.

4. Palpitations: Due to its stimulating characteristics, it can sometimes cause palpitations. Along these lines, experts recommend reading the indications and ingredients of all types of tea.

5. Disadvantages during pregnancy: Green tea is rich in tannins, so it can reduce the absorption of folic acid and iron. Due to this, this drink is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.

Generally, green tea is an infusion with excellent health properties. In this way, moderate consumption usually brings different benefits to the body.

However, it is advisable to take these contraindications into account, and if you feel any side effects, see a medical specialist.

Through the following link, you will be able to know the contraindications to drink matcha tea, a variety of oriental origin widely established in Europe and whose consumption has become popular in recent years

Health

15 Benefits of pumpkin seeds and side effects

Published

11 months ago

April 29, 2024

admin

Table of Contents

1. Pumpkin seeds to boost the immune system
2. They are high in magnesium
3. Pumpkin seeds are low in calories
4. Pumpkin seeds are rich in iron
5. Relieve symptoms of irritable bladder
6. Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber
7. Benefits of pumpkin seeds for cholesterol
8. Pumpkin seeds are a natural anti-inflammatory
9. Pumpkin seed oil to counter the effects of menopause
10. Pumpkin seeds help healthy skin, hair and nails
11. Pumpkin seeds help eliminate kidney stones (kidney stone)
12. Pumpkin seeds are rich in vegetable protein
13. Pumpkin seeds are a great substitute for peanuts
14. benefits of pumpkin seeds on your hormonal health
15. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of potassium
Discover the 15 powerful health benefits and virtues of pumpkin seeds and side effects.
They are packed with nutrients and vitamins, are high in protein, fiber and are low in calories!
1. Pumpkin seeds to boost the immune system

Pumpkin seed helps boost the immune system , especially because it is rich in zinc.

Remember that zinc allows the proper functioning of the immune system by ensuring optimal activity of T lymphocytes. Zinc could also help the body to better protect itself against colds, flu, conjunctivitis and other infections.

2. They are high in magnesium

Anxiety , migraines, muscle cramps and PMS can result from magnesium deficiency. A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides almost 20% of the recommended daily allowance.

The magnesium intervenes in the transformation of food into energy, the transmission of nerve impulses, muscle relaxation and the formation of bones and teeth.
Acting with calcium and potassium, it regulates the heart rate and participates in the production of insulin.
Several studies have also demonstrated the virtues of magnesium in the prevention of cardiovascular disease.

3. Pumpkin seeds are low in calories

Pumpkin seeds are lower in calories than many nuts. A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds (2 tablespoons) without their raw shell has 126 calories, which is almost 40 calories less than almonds and 60 calories less than walnuts for a single serving.

4. Pumpkin seeds are rich in iron

Pumpkin seeds are a great source of iron. A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides almost 5% of the recommended daily allowance.

Remember that iron is essential for health and is involved in a multitude of functions in the human body, in addition to transporting oxygen through the body.

However, iron from plant sources is not as well absorbed as iron from animal sources. In this sense, it is recommended that vegetarians consume twice as much iron in order to ensure that they do not suffer from deficiencies that may in particular cause fatigue and weakness.

5. Relieve symptoms of irritable bladder

While more scientific studies are to be conducted on the subject to understand all of its mechanisms, pumpkin seeds are believed to help relieve symptoms of irritable bladder and urination disorders associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). .

6. Pumpkin seeds are high in fiber

Pumpkin seeds also provide a healthy dose of fiber . A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides 5g of fiber, or 20% of the recommended daily intake.

In addition to calming hunger, fiber promotes healthy digestion and helps regulate bowel function.

7. Benefits of pumpkin seeds for cholesterol

The phytosterols in pumpkin seeds help lower ” bad” cholesterol levels . Phytosterol is the plant equivalent of cholesterol. However, rather than blocking the arteries, phytosterol rather helps to clean them, recalls WebMD.

8. Pumpkin seeds are a natural anti-inflammatory

Source of antioxidants, pumpkin seeds have an anti-inflammatory effect and thus help defend the body against damage caused by excess free radicals .

If free radicals oxidize DNA (the body’s genetic code) in a cell’s nucleus, a cell mutation can occur, which can start cancer. Oxidation of cholesterol in the blood can lead to the formation of fatty deposits in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease or stroke.

Excess free radicals are also involved in cataracts, immune deficiencies, arthritis and premature cell aging; their role in these diseases is the subject of intensive research.

9. Pumpkin seed oil to counter the effects of menopause

Researchers have studied the impact of pumpkin seed oil in better combating symptoms of menopause , including hot flashes and headaches.

While further studies need to be done, pumpkin seed oil has been shown to be effective in alleviating these symptoms in the subjects of this research.

10. Pumpkin seeds help healthy skin, hair and nails

The pumpkin seeds contain essential fatty acids, zinc, vitamin A and vitamin E . These nutrients help maintain glowing skin , strong, healthy hair and nails .

While more research is needed to confirm these benefits, a study with 76 participants also looked at the benefits of pumpkin seed oil in helping hair regrowth in men with alopecia.

In subjects who consumed 400mg of pumpkin seed oil for 24 weeks, regrowth was 40% greater than participants who took a placebo.

11. Pumpkin seeds help eliminate kidney stones (kidney stone)

Pumpkin seeds are also said to prevent kidney stones from forming . To better counter kidney stones, it is also recommended to drink plenty of water, limit sodium intake, and consume no more than 2g of vitamin C on a daily basis.

The kidneys are designed to remove particles of salts and minerals that end up in the ureter, a long, narrow duct leading to the bladder; they will then be expelled in the urine.

Problems arise when a chemical imbalance or other deficient process promotes the agglutination of particles, which turn into crystals and then into a kidney stone.

12. Pumpkin seeds are rich in vegetable protein

This food is also a good source of vegetable protein . A 28g serving of pumpkin seeds provides 5g of protein, or 10% of the recommended daily allowance.

The proteins include the ability to develop and maintain the muscles, in addition to help regulate and control hunger cravings.

Vegetarians and vegans, however, should make sure that their diet meets all their amino acid needs by combining different sources of plant protein (legumes and grain products, for example).

13. Pumpkin seeds are a great substitute for peanuts

In 10 years, cases of peanut allergy have doubled, forcing several schools to ban this food. Pumpkin seed butter is a good alternative.

At lunch or as a side dish for a snack, it will provide children with some of the essential fatty acids and proteins they need.

14. benefits of pumpkin seeds on your hormonal health

Pumpkin seeds may help women with hormonal imbalance due to the phytoestrogens they contain. However, further scientific studies need to be carried out to this effect.

The Extenso Nutrition Reference Center reminds us that phytoestrogens are compounds of plant origin which, when consumed in sufficient quantities, can act on your body in a manner similar to estrogen.

In addition to regulating the menstrual cycle, I pregnancy, and breastfeeding, estrogen helps prevent demineralization of your bones and keeps your blood vessels healthy.

15. Pumpkin seeds are a good source of potassium

Finally, pumpkin seeds provide a good source of potassium. A 28g serving provides 260mg of potassium , or nearly 7% of the recommended daily allowance.

Potassium is present in the form of a solution in the body and almost all of it is concentrated inside cells.

Like chlorine and sodium, it is an electrolyte, a substance that charges positively or negatively when dissolved.

The body needs a balance between potassium, chlorine and sodium to perform a multitude of essential functions.

We hope the article on the 15 powerful health benefits of pumpkin seeds has been of help.