Dubbed "Nature's Ozempic" by TikTok enthusiasts, yerba mate, a traditional South American tea, has gained a loyal following for its potential to boost metabolism, curb appetite, and support weight loss. But before you swap your morning coffee for this earthy, slightly bitter caffeinated brew, it's worth exploring the benefits and possible risks.

Yerba mate is traditionally brewed in a mate gourd using the leaves of Ilex paraguariensis, a plant native to the southern regions of South America, including Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay, and Brazil. For years, this herbal tea has been touted for weight loss benefits, with many scientific studies supporting the claim.

Ozempic is a GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide-1) receptor agonist, a class of medications used to treat type 2 diabetes and approved for weight management.

In a study published last month, researchers found that yerba mate may help promote weight loss by boosting GLP-1, a hormone that regulates appetite and blood sugar. This effect is associated with the plant's unique compounds, particularly dihydroferulic acid, which interacts with gut bacteria to stimulate GLP-1 production. Given these promising findings, yerba mate could become a natural ally in managing obesity and type 2 diabetes, earning it the "Ozempic" comparison.

Another study published in 2015 showed how yerba mate could be a promising tool in the fight against obesity. Researchers found that it helps improve lipid levels and restore gene expression, tackling key factors behind obesity. Yerba mate also showed potential in improving insulin resistance, a common issue in those struggling with excess weight.

Research shows that yerba mate not only supports weight management but works as a natural health booster. A study published in 2021 further confirmed how the drink slows body fat growth, reduces weight gain, and curbs appetite. Yerba mate also lowers blood sugar levels, boosts metabolism, and promotes feelings of fullness by slowing stomach emptying, all of which can aid in weight loss. In addition to these benefits, it may lower cholesterol and protect heart health.

Can yerba mate replace Ozempic?

While yerba mate and Ozempic may share some potential benefits, such as aiding weight loss and improving metabolic health, they are fundamentally different in terms of their composition and approval status.

Since yerba mate is an herbal tea, unlike pharmaceutical drugs, it has not undergone the same level of clinical testing and regulation. It is also important to note that the FDA does not approve the safety or effectiveness of herbal supplements for the treatment or prevention of diseases. While yerba mate can be a helpful addition to a healthy lifestyle, it should not be viewed as a direct substitute for medications like Ozempic.

What are the risks?

Research suggests that drinking more than one liter of yerba mate daily could increase the risk of certain cancers, especially for those who smoke or drink alcohol. Excessive intake can also lead to caffeine-related side effects like an upset stomach, trouble sleeping, a fast heartbeat, and restlessness.

Since yerba mate affects blood sugar levels combining it with medications like Ozempic may increase the risk of low blood sugar, leading to symptoms like fatigue, sweating, and shaking. Also, since both yerba mate and Ozempic reduce appetite, it is important to ensure people get adequate nutrient intake while on this drink.

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