The guarana It is a plant whose name derives from the Guaranni tribe, in the Amazon. Formerly, this tribe used guarana seeds to prepare a drink. Today, the seeds of this plant are used in medicines and how supplements.
Specifically, guarana is a natural stimulant thanks to its content of caffeine, which is higher than that contained in coffee, although it has a much slower and longer absorption. In addition, guarana also contains theophylline and theobromine, which are chemicals similar to caffeine.
The guarana fruit is shaped like a walnut seed. When ripe, it is already the size of a coffee berry. Currently the Brazilian Indians use it as stimulating drink natural similar to tea or coffee.
Guarana can be used as complementSince guarana seeds are used without the outer covering, they are roasted and a brown powder is obtained, which is rich in caffeine and tannins, which are compounds in some foods with astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. In addition, it can also be used as supplement in various formats: seed extract, capsules and pills, powder, infusions, bars or energy drinks.
Experts estimate that the energy drink industry uses 70% of the guarana produced and the remaining 30% turns into powder, according to Axa Health Keeper.
In addition, Medline Plus experts specify that some people take guarana to treat obesity, to increase athletic performance, energy, as an aphrodisiac.
To this day, still not enough scientific evidence on the uses of guarana. Experts explain that it will never be safe when ingested for a long time and in large quantities.
Next, we will explain in detail the benefits and contraindications of this plant.
Guarana benefits
The caffeine is the main component of guarana, so that, being a substance that stimulates the central nervous system and releases adrenaline, the benefits of consuming this plant are related to the benefits of consuming caffeine. Let’s see what those benefits are:
– Powerful energizerConsuming caffeine in moderate doses can increase alertness and reduce drowsiness. However, the effects will last depending on the age or body weight of each person. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), the stimulating effects of caffeine can begin within 15 to 30 minutes and, in a healthy adult, can last up to four hours.
– Improves fat burning and allows greater weight loss– The high caffeine content can increase metabolism by 3 to 11%, allowing you to burn more calories at rest. Thus, taking supplements containing guarana could help, according to the experts at Axa Health Keeper, although always following a balanced diet. In addition, if you suffer from any disease, it is advisable to consult a doctor.
– Rich in substances from the group of xanthines: As we have said before, guarana extract contains alkaloids such as theobromine and theophylline. Xanthines, in humans, act as a stimulant of the central nervous system, increase gastric acid secretion and act as bronchodilators and diuretics.
– Antioxidant properties s: the catechins contained in guarana can help slow down cell aging. In addition, this antioxidant property could help improve cardiovascular diseases and diabetes.
From the American agency of the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) they explain that, generally, guarana is “recognized as safe” when it is administered correctly.
Although they warn that it is essential not to abuse this plant. Well even though there is no proven effective dose Regarding how much to take, most human-based research concludes that doses of 50 to 75 milligrams can already provide the benefits listed above.
Remember that Benefits They may be different in each person, since they will depend on factors such as weight, medication consumption, individual sensitivity and the way in which it is taken. Therefore, if you have doubts about how it can affect your health, the best thing is consult a doctor.
Guarana contraindications
Guarana also has several contraindications. Well, although in low or moderate doses it has a low toxicity, in high doses, the side effects can be harmful, similar to those caused by caffeine. Next, let’s see what side effects abuse of guarana can have, according to the experts at Axa Health Keeper.
– Anxiety and nervousness.
– Upset stomach.
– Heart palpitations.
– High blood pressure.
– Headache.
Furthermore, there are certain groups of people at risk what should avoid consuming guaranalike women pregnantas it could lead to low birth weight or premature delivery; people with allergy to caffeine or other substances in the same group, such as theophylline; kids under 12 years old; people with problems cardiovascular; people with gastroduodenal ulcers; or people who are taking antidepressants.
It is important to know the risks that it can have to consume badly a plant like guarana. Neither guarana nor any other supplement should substitute never to a meal or medical treatment.
It is recommended, before you start consuming it, consult a doctor or specialist to know if it is suitable for that person and the exact amount recommended.
This information does not replace in any case the diagnosis or prescription by a doctor. It is important to go to a specialist when symptoms occur in case of illness and never self-medicate.
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