Mate is a traditional South American beverage. The leaves of the mate tree, Ilex paraguariensis, have many health benefits when consumed as an infusion.
However, this plant can also cause side effects, especially if you drink large quantities of it daily.
The cause is the presence of caffeine, whose consumption should not exceed 400 mg per day according to the European Food Safety Authority.
According to my research, there are no fewer than 7 side effects related to mate consumption, which I explain to you here.
But rest assured, sticking to the recommended daily caffeine limits will allow you to consume mate safely. And if you have specific concerns about your situation, talk to a healthcare professional.
Also read | Everything you need to know to choose the best mate
1. Insomnia and restlessness
Like coffee, mate contains caffeine. It can cause insomnia, make you more nervous or agitated.
Several studies show that mate generally increases sleep latency, reduces total sleep duration and efficiency, and worsens perceived quality.
Effects that are seen, particularly in people who are sensitive to caffeine or who consume large amounts.
2. Digestive problems
Some people may experience stomach pain or indigestion after consuming mate, especially those with irritable bowel syndrome.
En effet, d’après cette étude, l’acidité contenue dans ce type de boisson peut irriter les personnes à la digestion sensible.
3. Heart problems
According to this study, as with other caffeinated drinks, mate can raise blood pressure and heart rate.
I therefore recommend avoiding it if you already have heart problems.
4. Drug interactions
Le maté peut interagir avec certains médicaments, en particulier ceux qui stimulent le système nerveux ou affectent la pression artérielle.
I recommend checking the possible interactions with any medications you take to avoid problems. Your pharmacist can advise you if you’re unsure.
5. Effects during pregnancy
The caffeine in mate stimulates the nervous system. Taken in excessive amounts, it can be risky for the mother and the baby. Your gynecologist will probably recommend limiting your caffeine intake during pregnancy.
Be aware that the WHO advises not to exceed 200 to 300 mg of caffeine per day during pregnancy. That corresponds roughly to two to three cups per day of mate.
6. Caffeine dependence
Encore une fois, tout comme le café et les sodas qui contiennent de la caféine, une consommation régulière de maté peut conduire à une dépendance à cette substance.
If consumption is abruptly stopped, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as headaches, irritability, and fatigue.
7. Effects on iron
Le maté peut réduire l’absorption du fer dans l’organisme, ce qui est préoccupant pour les personnes atteintes d’une carence en fer.
Si vous vous supplémentez en fer et que vous souhaitez continuer de consommer du maté, espacez la prise de votre tasse de maté avec votre comprimé de fer. Vous éviterez ainsi toute interaction entre les deux.
