Yerba mate, a traditional South American herbal tea, is gaining popularity on TikTok as a potential weight loss aid. Some users are even comparing it to the prescription medication Wegovy, but doctors say the effects are not the same. Yerba mate contains caffeine and theobromine, which is also found in chocolate.
It is rich in polyphenols that can protect the body against illnesses. The tea has been consumed for centuries in countries like Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. Some studies suggest that yerba mate may stimulate lipolysis, the breakdown of fats, and reduce body fat due to its caffeine content.
A 2015 study found that participants who drank yerba mate daily for 12 weeks lost a significant amount of body fat. However, experts say the effects are subtle and short-lived compared to the metabolic changes that occur with GLP-1 drugs like Wegovy. Dr. Mir Ali, medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center, notes that while caffeine has some appetite suppressant effects, it is not nearly as powerful as Wegovy.
Yerba mate’s health effects and risks
There are also potential risks associated with drinking yerba mate. Consuming more than one liter per day could increase the risk of certain types of cancer, especially for individuals who smoke or drink alcohol.
The caffeine in yerba mate may also cause side effects such as an upset stomach, trouble sleeping, a fast heartbeat, or restlessness. It is not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Scott Keatley, RD, co-owner of Keatley Medical Nutrition Therapy, says that if someone enjoys yerba mate and wants a gentle nudge toward appetite control, there is no harm in incorporating it as part of a comprehensive weight management strategy.
However, relying on it as a Wegovy alternative is misleading and oversells what the drink can do. Before mixing yerba mate with any medications, it is important to check for potential interactions. The U.S. National Library of Medicine lists medications that should not be combined with yerba mate, including anti-diabetes drugs, but does not specifically mention Wegovy.
As with drinking tea or coffee, it is best to consult with a medical professional.
Photo by; Arseniy Kapran on Unsplash
