Yerba Maté (Ilex paraguariensis) Metabolic, Satiety, and Mood State Effects at Rest and during Prolonged Exercise.
Level 2 - randomized trial
Randomized crossover trial
PubMed 28809814 · doi:10.3390/nu9080882
What was done
Twelve healthy active females participated in a randomized repeated-measures crossover trial comparing acute ingestion of 2 g of Yerba Maté against a placebo. Participants rested for 120 minutes following ingestion before performing a 30-minute cycling session at each individual's crossover point intensity. Fatty acid oxidation was assessed using indirect calorimetry, along with subjective appetite ratings via Visual Analogue Scales and mood profile via Profile of Mood States.
What was found
Fatty acid oxidation during exercise was significantly higher with Yerba Maté compared to placebo (0.21 ± 0.07 vs. 0.17 ± 0.06 g/min, p < 0.05). Visual Analogue Scale ratings for hunger, prospective eating, and desire to eat were all significantly reduced (p < 0.05). Profile of Mood States measures of focus, energy, and concentration were all significantly increased (p < 0.05). No significant time effects or interaction effects between treatment and time were observed. Numerical values for appetite and mood outcomes were not reported in the abstract.
Why it matters
Acute pre-exercise yerba maté ingestion can augment fat oxidation during moderate-intensity exercise while simultaneously enhancing alertness and reducing hunger cues.
Limits
The study is limited by a very small sample size of 12 participants and included only healthy active females, limiting generalizability to men, sedentary individuals, or clinical populations. It tested only an acute single dose during a single 30-minute exercise bout, leaving long-term metabolic adaptations and chronic weight-loss efficacy unmeasured.
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