Yerba Mate: The Drink That Fuels Football Stars Like Lionel Messi

Hello, tea buddies!  

Have you ever spotted a famous footballer like Lionel Messi sipping from a peculiar-looking straw? No, he's not tasting the latest hipster smoothie. He's enjoying 'mate' (pronounced MAH-teh), a traditional South American drink winning hearts worldwide. It's also known as Yerba Mate. Let's dive into the magical world of mate and explore why it might become your next favourite beverage!

A Brief Dive Into Mate's History

The tale of mate begins in South America's lush, rain-drenched forests, where the indigenous Guarani people first sipped on this beverage. They believed the drink could rejuvenate and energize, and lo and behold, they weren't wrong. The Spanish conquistadors soon caught wind of this 'liquid gold' and helped introduce it to the rest of the world.

Drinking mate isn't just about quenching your thirst. It's a social ritual. Here's the drill:

• The Vessel: The mate drink is consumed from a hollowed-out gourd.
• The Straw: It's not just any straw, it's a 'bombilla', a metal straw with a filtered end.
• The Process: Fill two-thirds of the gourd with dried yerba mate leaves. Tilt the mate until the leaves cover the side and almost reach the top. Pour hot (but not boiling) water into the bottom half, sip, and enjoy!

So, why does the football legend Lionel Messi have an affinity for this drink? Besides the fact that he's Argentine and grew up with it, mate has several benefits, which brings us to...

The Perks of Sipping on Mate

• Energy Booster: Mate has caffeine, just like coffee. So, you get that kick without the jitters.
• Rich in Nutrients: It's packed with vitamins, amino acids, and powerful antioxidants.
• Enhances Physical Performance: Some say mate helps with muscle contractions and reduces fatigue. A perfect match for athletes!
• Digestive Helper: It aids digestion and can even help in weight loss.

Ready for a sip of some fun facts? 🍵

Before hitting the soccer field, Team Argentina has a tea-time ritual with yerba mate! For their World Cup in Qatar (2022), they flew in a whopping 1,100 pounds of it. But they weren't alone. Uruguay and Brazil also jet-setted with their stashes—530 and 26 pounds, respectively. Drink tea like the legendary Leo Messi! 

Why Mate Over Coffee?

Now, we're not saying ditch your morning coffee (we wouldn't dare!), but here are some compelling reasons to add mate to your menu:

• Smoother Energy Ride: Unlike the abrupt highs and lows of coffee, mate offers a balanced boost.
• Less Acidic: For those with sensitive tummies, mate is easier on the digestive system.
• Versatility: Enjoy it hot, cold, with milk, or even with fruit juices!

In Conclusion

Yerba mate is not just a drink but a celebration of culture, tradition, and good health. Whether you're gearing up for a football match or just looking for a beverage to jazz up your day, give mate a shot. Who knows? You might do the 'goal' dance after your first sip!

Cheers to new experiences and a cup of refreshing mate! 🍵⚽🥳

PS: If you want to try a mate blend by Babooshy, check out Good Energy. We know you'll love it!

Image credit: Tribuna