If you’re a fan of green tea for its health benefits and daily caffeine fix, it’s time you learned about its powerful, antioxidant-packed rival – guarana. This seed, found deep in the Amazonian rainforest, is a popular ingredient in refreshing fizzy beverages in Brazil and is even used in some energy drinks in America.
Guarana vs. Green Tea
Both green tea and guarana contain catechins, which are known for their antioxidant properties. Catechins have been reported to reduce the risk of viral infections, including hepatitis, and cancer. But here’s the twist – guarana contains 10 times more catechins than green tea!
Researchers at the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil studied the effects of guarana on participants who were generally healthy but slightly overweight. The participants consumed a daily drink containing 3 grams of guarana powder in 300 ml of water for 15 days and experienced amazing health benefits. By the end of the study, participants had:
- Less damage to their DNA
- More powerful antioxidant enzymes in their cells, like glutathione peroxidase, catalase, and superoxide dismutase
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that’s more resistant to oxidation (oxidated LDL puts you at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease)
Additionally, researchers found that the catechins in guarana are highly bioavailable, which means they’re easily absorbed by your body and potentially more bioavailable than the catechins found in green tea, cocoa, and chocolate.
Guarana’s Antioxidant Power
Loaded with antioxidants, guarana packs a punch when it comes to protecting your body from free radicals and inflammation, potentially boosting your odds against disease. It’s a plant you should try if you want to improve your overall health.
Although there are many health benefits to guarana, it’s important to note that it contains twice the amount of caffeine as coffee. Therefore, if you’re sensitive to caffeine, it’s best to start slow. You can purchase guarana powder online or from a health food store and add as little as you desire to a glass of water to get started. A little bit of this powerful antioxidant can go a long way!
A Word of Caution
When incorporating guarana or green tea into your diet, be mindful not to drink it with an iron-rich meal. Iron can render catechins ineffective as it diminishes their health benefits. Swap your caffeinated drinks for this powerful plant, and ensure you balance your intake around your meals to reap its full benefits.
In conclusion, if you’re looking for a beverage that offers the caffeine kick of coffee and the antioxidant benefits of green tea, guarana might just be the superfood you’re looking for. Adding it to your daily routine could provide numerous health benefits in a tasty and energizing package.
