Some of the best footballers in the world are fans of the drink, but what is it? Elite professional athletes are always looking for ways to improve their performances and the slightest alterations to lifestyle, training and diet can make all the difference.
In recent years, more and more celebrities have begun drinking YERBA MATE – a drink enjoyed by Pope Francis, no less – with the trend spreading across the Atlantic from South America to Europe.
There are a lot of health benefits associated with the drink, but its preparation and consumption is also a social event for those partaking in it.
Benefits of Yerba Mate
- Rich in antioxidants and nutrients.
- Can improve energy and improve mental focus.
- May enhance physical performance.
- May protect against infections.
- May promote better sleep.
- Contains vitamins B and C, which are important for metabolism and the immune system respectively.
Now let’s look at the preparation of the Yerba mate
It involves a gourd that is roughly filled half-to-three-quarters with dried yerba leaves, then the individual preparing it covers the top and shakes it to achieve desired consistency. Straw is then placed into the gourd along with a small drop of cold water. Once it settles, hot water is added and your drink is ready!
The gourd in which it is prepared is traditionally made out of calabash, and drunk through a metal or bamboo straw known as bombilla, which serves as a filter.