Look at the ingredients in almost any energy supplement. With a high degree of probability you will see guarana there, the benefits and harms of which have been studied by scientists not so long ago. Derived from an Amazonian fruit, guarana has long been in great demand for improving health. It has been used to treat various diseases for centuries.
Recently, research shows that taking guarana can provide quite a long list of benefits. It can help optimize memory, fight fatigue, improve heart health, and much more to help you feel better.
In the article we will look at the scientific facts about what guarana is, its benefits and harm to health. We will also outline recommendations on how to take guarana without consequences.
What is guarana
A creeping vine up to 10 m long with large leaves and bunches of light flowers looks bright and extravagant during the seed ripening period. Orange-red, hazelnut-sized “tomatoes” are tightly packed into clusters or long cobs. When they burst, it seems that tens of hundreds of eyes open - these are dark glossy seeds in white “pockets”.
Once extracted, they resemble small chestnuts, only soft. With the growing popularity of the plant, it began to be grown for industrial processing. 1 vine produces about 3 kg of seeds. They are peeled, dried, and ground into powder. Each manufacturer subjects raw materials to varying degrees of purification and adapts them for the production of food products.
Compound
Guarana has long been valued in its homeland for its high content of guaranine, a substance similar to caffeine. In terms of its volume (2-6%), the liana is far ahead of the coffee tree.
The fruits of the plant also contain:
| Substance | Share per 100 g of raw materials, % |
| Protein | about 10 |
| Carbohydrates | 5-6 |
| Fat | 0,3 |
| Starch | 5-6 |
| Tannin | 0,5-1,2 |
| Theophylline | up to 0.3 |
| Theobromine | 0,2-0,4 |
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Beneficial properties of guarana
Many centuries ago, American Indians already knew how to use the stimulating capabilities of the plant. The fruits of the vines drowned out feelings of hunger and fatigue, treated infections, headaches, fever, cramps, intestinal disorders, and joint pain. With the advent of civilization, and with it strong alcohol, the aborigines relieved hangovers with herbal drinks.
Guarana is such a successful combination of nutrients and taste that it has been widely used:
- in the preparation of chocolate, sweets, coffee;
- production of energy, alcoholic, dessert drinks;
- production of cosmetics and hygiene products;
- in teas, alcohol extracts, capsules, tablets, elixirs to increase athletic endurance and lose weight;
- in medicine (selected countries).
Laboratory studies have shown the antioxidant and antibacterial properties of guaranine. Clinical trials of the plant extract in dosages of 37.5-300 mg have demonstrated a positive effect on cognition (perception of new things), memory, tone, and human mood.
US scientists did not recognize the medicinal potential of guarana, but agreed on the advisability of its use as a food additive.
Contraindications for use
Natural guarana products with various additives should not be consumed in the following cases:
- pregnancy, feeding a newborn;
- chronic migraines;
- neurological diseases;
- stomach and duodenal ulcers, hiatal hernia, high acidity, reflux (release of gastric juice up the tract);
- cardiovascular disorders, arrhythmias, tachycardia, hypertension;
Guarana is strictly contraindicated for hypertension - diabetes of both types;
- glaucoma;
- insomnia;
- taking medications with theophylline (since the plant also contains it).
Energy drugs should not be used by children, boys and girls under 18 years of age, and adults over 50.
Harm
The climbing vine itself does not pose a particular threat to humans; cases of guarana overdose, when the general condition of the body can be described as not entirely adequate, are more frightening. In addition, there are official contraindications for guarana, among which doctors distinguish not only periods of pregnancy and lactation, but also:
- chronic cardiovascular diseases;
- stomach ulcer;
- diabetes;
- extensive damage to the central nervous system;
- childhood.
Application in sports nutrition
Guaranine helps professional and amateur athletes achieve their goals faster, increase endurance, and more intensively remove excess lactic acid, which causes muscle pain.
Experienced athletes adhere to a daily dosage of 200-800 mg (0.2-0.8 g), as well as an interval between doses of at least 8 hours . A surge of strength occurs from half an hour to an hour from the moment you receive the product. The energy effect lasts up to 5 hours.
The German drug Guarana 1,800 shots from the well-known company Z-Konzept Nutrition is popular in sports circles. It is not considered a doping, but it perfectly stimulates a surge of strength for martial arts, speed, strength, and team sports.
The energy potential of the drug is enhanced by vitamins and fructose. This composition is suitable for supporters of a vegetarian diet. 1 ampoule of liquid oral product per day is enough.
How to take for weight loss
Thanks to its general strengthening, stimulating effect, guaranine accelerates metabolism and promotes the removal of excess fluid and waste substances. The ballast components of herbal preparations perform a cleansing effect when passing through the digestive tract.
By dulling the feeling of hunger, guarana caffeine facilitates the transition to a limited diet and forces the body to draw energy from fat reserves. By increasing physical activity and endurance, nutritional supplements help burn fat more efficiently during fitness. In a month you can lose up to 6 kg if you regularly devote time to exercise.
From the first days of taking the extract or dietary supplement, you feel a surge of strength, a more optimistic mood, and an incentive to work and move.
For those looking to lose weight, guarana comes in the form of:
- liquid extract;
- capsules;
- tablets;
- drops, ampoules;
- powder for drinks;
- dry substrate for tea.
Popular dietary supplements in capsules with Lida and Herbalife NRG vitamins, which remove excess fluid and stimulate fat burning up to 2-10 kg per month.
Liquid extracts with vitamins in ampoules, such as Power System, Narinin, Multipower Guarana Shot, are absorbed faster. Each manufacturer has its own original formula for the product, so you need to use the dosage regimen specified in the instructions on the labels.
Guarana Liquid Power System
This complex was specially designed to stimulate the central nervous system and activate fat metabolism. It is considered one of the most important factors both for losing extra pounds and for increasing the duration of physical activity. Guarana Power System is recommended for use in absolutely all types of activities that require physical and intellectual endurance, concentration on something specific, and high loads.
The main ingredient in this complex is guarana extract. Reviews of Guarana Liquid Power System prove that this energy supplement is very popular among athletes from a variety of disciplines. However, you need to know about the rules of use and possible contraindications of this energy supplement. How to take Guarana Liquid will be described later in this article.
Instructions for use of the extract
For guarana extracts (otherwise known as liquid chestnut), the daily intake averages 300 mg. For weight loss, the recommended dosage is 1-2 capsules (ampoules) per day with food. The alcohol extract is drunk 10 drops with water 3-4 times. 1 dose should be timed to coincide with the first, most active half of the day.
The second - no later than 17.00, otherwise the body will not have time to use the boost of energy, and the quality of sleep will deteriorate. To increase the effectiveness of physical activity, drink the specified amount 1 hour before exercise or training. Course duration is 1 month; a break is required before re-use.
Guarana capsules (tablets) of different brands for removal from such unpleasant conditions as asthenic syndrome, psychological fatigue, you may need 3-6 pieces. This amount cannot exceed the limit of 400 mg of guaranine. Their course is shorter - 2 weeks. All drugs are stored in a cool, dark place where the temperature is not higher than +20°C.
Price
The cost of the drug depends on the form of release, the volume of packaging and the place where this innovative product was purchased. If you order guarana online, you will have to pay additionally for delivery. The conditions are different, the main thing is to find a supplier who offers original products, and not just another fake. Many stores and pharmacies in Moscow have guarana in various forms, so purchasing it is not difficult.
| Guarana name | Price, rubles |
| Guarana Liquid (500 ml) | 850 |
| Guarana Liquid 20 ampoules | 1500 |
| Guarana Power shot drink | 700 |
| Guarana with Calcium | 550 |
| Energy Storm Guarana 2000 | 1700 |
Tea
There are many black teas on sale, exclusively guarana, as well as black and green types mixed with ginseng, passion fruit, orange, mate (Paraguayan holly leaves), pomegranate and sunflower petals. Dry tea leaves are packaged in single bags, sticks, in bulk in boxes of 100 g, bags of 0.5 kg.
All teas produce a tonic, invigorating effect. They eliminate or greatly alleviate symptoms of depression, stress fatigue, and lack of sleep
Prepare the water for brewing - bring it to a boil, let it stand until the temperature drops to 85°C. Pour boiling water over a glass, clay, porcelain teapot, pour 1 tbsp. (or according to the recipe on the package) loose tea leaves, pour in 250 ml of prepared water.
If desired, you can add fresh mint, a slice of lemon, or lime. Leave for 5-10 minutes. to the desired strength. Bags and sticks, like regular tea, are dipped directly into a cup of hot water.
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Energy drink
Canned and bottled energizer drinks, of which there are many on the shelves of all stores, are the cheapest products. It may contain real guarana extract, but it is also replete with harmful flavors, dyes, preservatives, and sweeteners.
Much better quality than more expensive sports drinks. Together with guaranine, they contain vitamins, minerals, juices, and harmless sweeteners. Potassium sorbate (E202) serves as a preservative. It is considered not dangerous if the content is within 0.01-0.2% of the volume of the drink. Energy drinks are drunk chilled, 200 ml per day, less saturated tonics - no more than 2 bottles of 0.5 liters.
To prepare homemade drinks, powdered guarana extract is used. It is diluted with water, infused for 10-15 minutes. or according to the instructions on the package. There is a practice of enriching your favorite juice, yogurt, and fresh milk with a small amount of powder. Most extracts are not rated for high temperatures, so keep the drink cold.
Reviews and opinions of people
On various specialized forums you can find a lot of reviews from people who have used products containing guarana extract. Most of them agree that such nutritional supplements have a general tonic effect on the entire body.
If you combine taking guarana with proper nutrition and physical activity, you will see good weight loss results.
The main point, according to respondents, is that this drug should not be abused, and then you will not feel absolutely any side effects.
Therefore, if you see this plant, feel free to buy it, because you already know what it is - guarana extract - and what benefits it brings.
Preparations in tablets with guarana
Tabletted and encapsulated extracts are sold in plastic jars of 30, 60, 90, 100, 120, 180 pcs. with the same wide dosage range, for example 900, 800, 500, 106.2 mg
Depending on the strength of the impact, they can be prescribed:
- for patients with weakened immune systems as an addition to the treatment program;
- for the recovery period after surgery, injury, long-term illness;
- to reduce appetite in case of obesity;
- with IOP of the hypotonic type, loss of strength of various etiologies.
The tablets are convenient to take with you to the gym or on the road if you need to stay alert during the day and at night. Absorption of the active substance can last up to 1 hour. If necessary, speed up the process, drink them on an empty stomach or after meals after 1-1.5 hours.
Contains vitamins
Guarana is a healing drug that gives a synergistic (mutually reinforcing) effect with vitamin preparations. German manufacturers produce complexes based on a scientifically balanced formula. One of the equivalent components is good quality guaranine.
Univit® Energy effervescent tablets are available for sale. They contain 9 vitamins, minerals calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, coenzyme Q10. Guarana is present here as a stimulant and as an enhancer of absorption and assimilation of other components.
The drug increases performance, motor activity, and helps to withstand conditions of strong psycho-emotional stress. It is recommended to take 1 piece, dissolved in a glass of water. Course – 1 month.
The intended purpose of the drug Complivit® SuperEnergy with guarana is to provide the body with a complex of substances necessary for energy and other types of metabolism, strengthening the immune system, and stimulating vitality.
The composition includes most B-vitamins, the vitamin-like substance L-carnitine, selenium, zinc, green tea extract, and catechins from the group of antioxidants. Tablets are used in a monthly course of 1 piece. during breakfast.
Other Energy Supplements
Energy supplements used by athletes are a separate class of products that are designed to have invigorating and tonic effects on the human body. They are able to eliminate fatigue, increase the endurance coefficient, and also replenish the lack of energy in the body. However, this effect is short-term and is achieved through stimulation of the central nervous system. The most common components that are included in energy drinks include:
- caffeine;
- taurine;
- B vitamins;
- carnitine;
- carbohydrates;
- Guarana.
These supplements can come in liquid, powder, or tablet form. Their main goal is to restore tone during long and grueling workouts, as well as to maintain it.
Precautionary measures
Guarana is such a strong substance in concentrated form that you need to follow some rules.
- It is dangerous to consume liquid chestnut simultaneously with alcohol; there is a risk of cardiovascular problems.
- Excessive, long-term consumption of funds can have the opposite effect - reduce productivity, make it difficult to quickly concentrate and perceive information. This occurs due to overexcitation and subsequent fatigue of the nervous system and muscular system.
- Deterioration in well-being can be caused by counterfeits, as well as additives in energy drinks, drugs: synthetic - because they are harmful and enter the body in large quantities; natural (vitamins, minerals) - because they disrupt the physiological balance towards an excess of any biochemical elements.
- People who have health problems should recharge their energy with greater caution. It is more logical for them to limit contact with guarana to 2 times a week or consult a doctor regarding individual dosage. But even those who feel excellent should not get carried away, but soberly assess all changes in their condition.
- Exit from the course of guaranine use should be gradual. The body, left without a stimulant, may respond with at least a headache, irritability, and restless sleep.
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Potential Harm of Guarana
Low doses of guarana are generally safe and have minimal risk of side effects. Scientists have found that it has low toxicity even with regular use ().
However, due to its caffeine content, it is extremely important to keep your consumption in moderation. Not only is caffeine highly addictive, but it can also have negative health effects. It can even lead to a caffeine overdose if consumed in large quantities.
Some of the most common side effects associated with guarana include symptoms such as:
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Digestive problems
- Arrhythmia
- Headache
- Nausea
If you notice these or any other side effects after consuming guarana, consider reducing your dosage or stopping use altogether.
Pregnant women should limit or avoid products containing guarana. Increased caffeine consumption may be associated with a higher risk of birth defects and preterm birth ().
Additionally, guarana is often used as an additive in unhealthy drinks. These include energy drinks or alcoholic products. Drinks that are often filled with unhealthy sugar and extra ingredients. These products essentially negate any health benefits of guarana. They may cause more harm than good from guarana when it comes to your health.
Side effects
It is believed that guarana and its preparations have a gentler effect on humans than coffee.
Indeed, adverse reactions are not common, but coincide with signs of excess in the coffee drinking culture:
- increased breathing;
- acceleration of heart rate, turning into a violation of ri /img]
- tinnitus;
- frequent urination;
- indigestion to vomiting, diarrhea with pain in the intestines;
- dry mouth;
- fading sensations in the eyes;
- body twitching, spasms, tremors;
- redness, hypersensitivity of the skin, circles under the eyes;
- overexcitement, anxiety, turning into attacks of unmotivated panic;
- sleep disorder or vice versa drowsiness;
- feeling hot or cold sweat.
These symptoms can be single, combined, or varying in intensity. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to reduce the dosage, gradually bringing it to 0. In case of severe discomfort, you should consult a doctor.
Are there any analogues?
Plants containing caffeine (coffee, black, green teas), as well as a special type of glycosides (Paraguayan holly, ginseng) have a similar effect. In this series, coffee stands out as the most aggressive, while the others give an adrenaline-like effect much more mildly.
This is explained by the fact that in guarana and teas, caffeine is bound by other substances into a slightly soluble compound. An interesting type of glycoside, mateoside, was found in holly raw materials. Experts believe that thanks to it, mate tea can invigorate you in the morning and calm you down in the evening.
Guarana, coffee and green tea
There are many similarities between guarana, coffee and green tea, three popular ingredients used for their health-promoting properties and energizing effects.
All three are rich in caffeine and antioxidants. Both of these are associated with a number of potential health benefits. Additionally, they are all commonly consumed to help enhance weight loss, maximize alertness, and help fight fatigue.
Coffee and green tea can be included in your diet. But guarana is usually found in supplement form.
In terms of caffeine content, guarana extract is significantly higher in caffeine than coffee. Some studies show that the seeds contain four to six times more caffeine than coffee beans (). Green tea contains the least caffeine of all.
Reviews about the effectiveness of guarana
Many who have come into contact with the energy potential of guaranine are unanimous in their opinion - they really want to move, they are in the mood to resolve accumulated issues, complete pending tasks, and generate plans for the future.
Those who, taking herbal supplements, are not lazy to do gymnastics and walk every day, note an accelerated rate of weight loss, strengthening of muscles, increased resistance to colds and infections.
Nature has accumulated such extraordinary, very useful capabilities in guarana. A person can only wisely use this for his own benefit.
Article design: Mila Friedan
Reviews
In most cases, athletes respond positively to energy supplements, in particular Power System guarana. This product actually works effectively, it has the effect that was declared by the manufacturers, that is, it creates the necessary psychological mood, giving energy and increasing endurance. Those athletes who use this energy drink rarely speak badly of it, as evidenced by the good tolerance of the drug. After use, athletes rarely experience increased heart rate and sweating. However, those who take Guarana Liquid Power System before bed suffer from insomnia.
In conclusion, it is worth noting that energy drink with guarana is a high-quality drug that is suitable, without exception, for all people leading a fairly active physical life. To achieve the maximum effect from using this energy drink, you must follow the dosage, and also use this product in accordance with your goals. Do not also forget about some of the contraindications that were described above in this article.
