BENEFITS OF GOING BONKERS CHECK OUT OUR CUTTING EDGE NUTRACEUTICALS! Bonkers puts the fun in "functional" teas.  Scroll Down for "Commonly Asked Questions" to learn more about tea and its benefits.   In conjunction to drinking your Super Skinny teas, get easy "skinny" tips & tricks, recipes and ideas for living the lean lifestyle at: www.cookingtheskinnygourmetway.com. No "body" should be without it...get the edge.     Listed below is a description of the teas & nutraceuticals, including their origin, nutrient content and the known health benefits. South American Yerba Maté Base tea in SUPER SKINNY™ with BPT-Lean And MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE™ with Guarana  Description of Teas with Yerba Maté: Super Skinny Tea flavors are Ultra Chai, Ginger Peach, Lemon Peppermint and Mandarin Orange. They contain our active formula called BPT-Lean that contains nutraceuticals that actually boost your metabolism, help breakdown fat, help satiate the appetite, help reduce sugar cravings and help balance sugar levels. We use only healthy, effective ingredients--NO LAXATIVES! Maximum Performance is just what it says it is--the ultimate energizer from office to gym from morning to night. This extraordinary blend of roasted yerba mate and Guarana make for a great steady and sustainable level of energy that boosts your daily performance. This is the edge you have been waiting for. Description of Yerba Maté: Nature's most perfect beverage, Yerba Maté is considered to be the drink of the Gods. For centuries millions of South Americans have relied on Yerba Maté as a principle part of their daily diet. Maté is an evergreen member of the holly family. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and has 3 times the antioxidants*of spinach. Moreover, it is low in tannins and acidity...and doesn’t stain your teeth!! So you can drink up!  Maté has an amazing history of healthful benefits. It is often used as a staple food, substituting for bread and vegetables. Peace Corps workers have reported that large groups of natives remain in good health drinking Maté for extended periods when food has been scarce during drought and famine. In addition, researchers from the Pasteur Institute and the Paris Scientific Society concluded through their investigations that Maté contains practically all of the vitamins necessary to sustain life. They remarked that it would be difficult to find a plant any place else in the world to equal in nutritional value.  Maté is a natural stimulant that contains a type of caffeine some have called "mateiné". Based on the published article by Erowid, v 1.0 Jan 2005, the general rule is that dried Maté contains around 1% available caffeine (ranging from 0.5%-2%) when made into a tea with warm to hot water. It has been said that the energy boosting characteristics of Maté are similar to caffeine, but don't pose some of the negative side effects as caffeine. Maté does stimulate the nervous system, but has been known NOT to result in addictive or habituating activity, cause disruptive sleep or contribute to irritability associated with caffeine ingestion. You can find out more about Yerba Maté online by researching various articles. Since everyone's body chemistry is different, you need to judge for yourself and/or consult your doctor for necessary medical information. With this in mind, summarizing clinical studies from France, Germany, Argentina, and other countries, it is becoming clear that we may be dealing with the most powerful rejuvenator known to mankind. Unlike the Incas coca, India's coffee, and China's tea, Maté's rejuvenating qualities can be attributed not just through it's caffeine- like properties, but also through the wealth of its nutrients. Yerba Maté has numerous folk remedies that South Americans have been touting for years. You can find these listed on many websites. In addition, through continuing modern research, they are finding more healthful benefits all the time. Note: Please scroll down to "Commonly Asked Questions" for more information. Yerba Maté Nutrient Content: VITAMINS: A, C, C Complex, B1, B2, B Complex, E, Riboflavin MINERALS: Calcium, Carotene, Chlorophyll, Choline, Inositol, Iron, Magnesium, Potassium, Phosphorous, Phosphates, Sodium, Silicon, Sulfur AMINO ACIDS: 15 Different Compounds PLUS: Antioxidant* Polyphenols, Hydrochloric Acid FYI: Mate has three times the antioxidants of spinach and 50% more  than green tea. Nutraceuticals used in Super Skinny teas: Gymnema Sylvestre: has been shown to help balance blood sugar levels and suppress the craving for sweets.    Citrin K®: GRAS approved (Generally recognized as safe). May help control the appetite and increase the burning of fat. Green Tea Extract: comes from green tea, contains EGCG, which boosts the metabolism and burns fat. Green Tea Extract has also been shown to fight many diseases through its extraordinary polyphenol content. Spices: Peppermint Leaf: restores the functions of the stomach and promotes digestion. Super Skinny Lemon Peppermint. Cinnamon: helps reduce blood sugar levels, lower cholesterol and supports digestive function. Super Skinny Ultra Chai. Ginger: contains many antioxidants and traditionally used to help settle the stomach. Herbs in Maximum Performance: Guarana comes from a plant that grows in South America. Guarana is a popular Brazilian daily health tonic that contains a stimulant similar to caffeine, but unlike caffeine, Guarana is released into the system slowly over a longer period of time. This unique attribute avoids the roller coaster highs and lows some experience with coffee caffeine. Studies have shown Guarana to overcome fatigue, increase mental alertness, memory, stamina and physical endurance. In addition, Brazilians have been known to use Guarana to help suppress the appetite, aid in weight loss, detoxify, combat premature aging and relieve headaches. Maximum Performance is loaded with important nutrients that will nourish and energize your body, so you can be sure that you will reach your Maximum Performance! Black Tea Base tea in BRAIN BOOST™ with Gingko & Bacopa Description of Teas with Black Tea: Who doesn’t need a "Brain Boost”? Our Black Tea has two powerful nutraceuticals added to it to give you that edge when you need it. Description of Black Tea: Black Tea from the Camellia Sinensis plant is certainly enjoying its place in the sun next to the ever-popular green tea. Black tea is simply the fermented version of green tea. They both come from the plant. It is the processing of the leaves that determines the type of tea and the flavonoid content. Although green tea is getting a bulk of the media attention, black tea  also has many positive health benefits. The health benefits of tea have to do with its content of polyphenols or catechins. According to cancer.gov, The National Cancer Institute: Tea polyphenols are compounds in tea leaves that are natural plant antioxidants. These polyphenols have demonstrated several cancer preventive properties. In addition to antioxidant activity, these compounds may: reduce abnormal cell growth and inflammation, help the body get rid of cancer-causing agents and restore communication between different cells in the body. Antioxidants are more than just a buzz word. Antioxidants have been shown to prevent damage caused by free radicals to DNA and other molecules by their ability to trap free radicals. (More info at bottom of page under commonly asked questions.) Our bodies produce free radicals everyday and they may be the cause of more than 60 chronic and degenerative diseases. The latest research has shown that black tea contains a range of beneficial chemicals, such as antioxidants, that may reduce the risk of many cancers, may slow Alzheimer’s disease, reduces the risk of heart disease, kidney stones, osteoporosis, gum disease, boosts the immune system and yes, just like the famous green tea—black tea also helps support weight loss. A study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (2003, Aril 28 early online edition), says drinking tea can help boost the immune system and fight chronic disease. The study consisted of people who drank five to six small cups of black tea a day for two weeks. These people had a better ability to fight off infection due to an increase in disease-fighting activity of the body’s gamma delta T cells. Furthermore the gamma delta T cells in tea drinkers produced a large amount of anti-bacterial chemicals when exposed to bacteria. Tea isn’t necessarily the cure-all for all these diseases, but it is certainly inspiring new treatments to delay diseases as these new findings are confirmed through additional research. I guess you could say that drinking BONKERS is a no brainer!  Nutrient Content in Black Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Vitamins (Tea contains a small amount of vitamins) Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Thiamin helps to build energy by converting energy from food. It is also needed for growth and reproduction. Further, it promotes better appetite and digestion. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin is used for maintenance of healthy skin, eyes, and nerves. It also is an essential vitamin for proteins and energy metabolism. Vitamin B6: This vitamin helps to release energy from food and enhances the metabolism of proteins. It also helps the red blood cells formation and is an important compound in the regulation of the central nervous system. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): This vitamin helps to heal wounds and mend fractures. It also fights some common types of virus and bacterial infections. Vitamin K: This to helps build bone metabolism and is essential for preventing blood clotting. Carotene (precursor of vitamin A): Carotene is converted to vitamin A upon digestion. Vitamin A promotes good eyesight and healthy skin. Folic Acid: This acid is essential for the red blood cell formation and gene formation. Minerals (Tea is a rich source for minerals) Manganese: It is vital for growth and the body’s development Potassium: It is essential for maintaining normal fluid level and a normal heart rhythm. Zinc: Zinc is essential for the development of the reproduction organs and protein synthesis. It also helps in wound healing. Fluorine: As you might know, Fluorine protects the teeth and strengthens the bones. Polyphenols (Tea is a rich source for antioxidants) Flavonoids and catechins are groups of polyphenolic compounds. They help fight against cancer-causing radicals and heart disease. Nutraceuticals and herbs used in Brain Boost: Gingko Biloba leaves are used in a concentated form called GBE, Gingko Biloba Extract. They are believed to contain powerful antioxidant properties, that scavenge free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals are thought to be responsible for aging and maybe the cause of 60 chronic and degenerative diseases. Gingko has been used in traditional medicine to treat circulatory disorders and enhance memory. Bacopa is an herb from India dating back thousands of years. Through recent studies, Bacopa has shown to significantly improve the speed in early information processing, verbal learning rate and memory consolidation.  Decaffeinated Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) & South African Green Rooibos Base teas in Extreme Green™ Enhanced with Green Tea Extract      Description of Extreme Green, Anti-Aging Antioxidant Formula: This is really the ultimate in antioxidant protection. The combination of our decaffeinated Green Tea and our caffeine free Green Rooibos plus the addition of decaffeinated Green Tea Extract makes for a broader variety of antioxidants and less tannic acid. In other words, you have got a powerhouse of antioxidants working to fight off those free radicals that cause aging and disease. Why not live your life healthier when you can?? Description of Green Tea:  Green Tea is definitely enjoying its day in the sun with its new found popularity. And rightly so, people around the world have enjoyed its powerful health benefits for centuries. The range of benefits is numerous and continues to grow all the time. Please read about black tea above to get additional information that applies to both green and black tea—because as you know they both come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis, so they therefore have many of the same benefits. The big difference between the two is that black tea is fermented which causes a change in its structure and potency. But not to fear, as black tea does offer many healthful benefits just the same. To quickly name just a few of the many green tea benefits, there are studies that strongly suggest that the antioxidants in green tea may help reduce the risk of certain cancers, prevent cavities, fight the flu virus, lower high blood sugar, lower blood cholesterol, lower the risk of high blood pressure or hypertension and have an antibacterial action. And most importantly it is said green tea is a great weight loss aid. Studies have shown that  a cup of green tea may provide 10-40mg of polyphenols and has antioxidant activity greater than a serving of broccoli, spinach, carrots or strawberries. Furthermore, the green tea benefits of EGCG makes up about 10-50% of the total catechin content, and appears to be the most powerful of the catechins – with antioxidant activity about 25-100 times more potent than vitamins C and E.    Nutrient Content in Green Tea (Camellia Sinensis) Vitamin (Tea contains a small amount of vitamins) Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): Thiamin helps to build energy by converting energy from food. It is also needed for growth and reproduction. Further, it promotes better appetite and digestion. Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): Riboflavin is used for maintenance of healthy skin, eyes, and nerves. It also is an essential vitamin for proteins and energy metabolism. Vitamin B6: This vitamin helps to release energy from food and enhances the metabolism of proteins. It also helps the red blood cells formation and is an important compound in the regulation of the central nervous system. Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid): This vitamin helps to heal wounds and mend fractures. It also fights some common types of virus and bacterial infections. Vitamin K: This to helps build bone metabolism and is essential for preventing blood clotting. Carotene (precursor of vitamin A): Carotene is converted to vitamin A upon digestion. Vitamin A promotes good eyesight and healthy skin. Folic Acid: This acid is essential for the red blood cell formation and gene formation. Minerals (Tea is a rich source for minerals) Manganese: It is vital for growth and the body’s development. Potassium: It is essential for maintaining normal fluid level and a normal heart rhythm. Zinc: Zinc is essential for the development of the reproduction organs and protein synthesis. It also helps in wound healing. Fluorine: As you might know, Fluorine protects the teeth and strengthens the bones. Polyphenols (Tea is a rich source for antioxidants: Flavonoids and catechins are groups of polyphenolic compounds. They help fight against cancer-causing radicals and heart disease. Description of South African Green Rooibos: Green Rooibos—is a South African Tea that has gained its own popularity and attention. Green Rooibos is the unfermented version of the popular Red Bush tea. Green Rooibos is naturally caffeine free, low in tannins and has no oxalic acid. In addition, Rooibos is an antioxidant powerhouse, some of which are only found in this plant. Note: Please refer to nutritional information below in the South African Rooibos Tea section. The nutritional values are almost identical. As with any fermentation process, Red Bush tea has nutrient benefits that the unfermented type has and visa versa. Nutraceutical in Extreme Green: Green Tea Extract*— contains a concentrated form of polyphenols that contain the all important EGCG.  Antioxidants are very beneficial in helping our bodies fight the free radicals and the damage they can cause. We produce free radicals daily and they may be the cause of more than 60 chronic and degenerative diseases. South AfricanTea--Rooibos (aka Red Bush Tea or Red Tea) REJUVENATE™with Rhodiola Rosea   Description of Rejuvenate: Rejuvenate with Rhodiola Rosea is our caffeine free energizer tea, which enhances endurance, energy and your performance. Plus it is loaded with antioxidants important to keep you right on track. Now remember, when the going gets rough and you can’t just sit back to relax…stay tough with your all day caffeine free energizer—REJUVENATE—going BONKERS has never been better! Description of Rooibos: This South African tea first gained popularity when it was discovered that it had a soothing effect on babies suffering from colic and restlessness. Studies now show that Rooibos has many beneficial medicinal effects. Rooibos is an extremely healthy drink which is completely pure and natural, containing no additives, preservatives or colorants of any kind, has no caffeine, oxalic acid and is low in tannin. Rooibos is rich in antioxidants*, minerals and rare trace elements plus Vitamin C and AHA. Rooibos contains a wealth of flavonoids, which are powerful antioxidants and have more antioxidant activity than vitamin C. Of the many, the major flavonoid, aspalathin, is only found in Rooibos and nowhere else. These flavonoids decrease the permeability and fragility of veins and lymph vessels, making it useful for treating tiredness in legs, cramps, and various skin and circulatory disorders. It has been shown that foods rich in flavonoids significantly reduce heart disease. To add, flavonoids are often anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic, which has led to Rooibos being used in skin lotions and cosmetic products. Some flavonoids even protect the liver, decrease blood cholesterol or act as diuretic, antibacterial and antiviral substances, while others improve memory and counteract anxiety. There have been various scientific research studies done on the benefits of Rooibos. Japanese scientists have been able to show beneficial effects in constipation, liver function, blood sugar levels, skin diseases, depression and anxiety. In addition, Japanese scientist, Matatoshi Nakano, discovered that the effect of free radical production, a by-product of normal cell function, limited the process of aging and decline of the immune system by the antioxidants in Rooibos.  Like Yerba Maté, Rooibos has many folk remedies that South Africans have used for years. Among the most common are that it helps reduce allergy symptoms, soothes an upset stomach, promotes restful sleep and a feeling of general well-being. And yes, this is the same tea that Mm Ramotswe drinks in Alexander McCall Smith's enchanting novels, No.1 Ladies Detective Agency.An excellent read, by the way. Rooibos Nutrient Content: Contains trace amounts of:                                   Iron Potassium Copper Calcium Manganese Fluoride Zinc Alpha Hydroxy Acid Magnesium Sodium PLUS: Antioxidants*, flavonoids Herb in Rejuvenate: Rhodiola Rosea is an amazing herb that comes from a plant that grows in the Himalayas. Russian Olympic athletes used this herb while training to enhance their performance. Studies suggest that Rhodiola Rosea has a powerful effect in enhancing mental and physical performance, improving physical fitness, psychomotor and mental functions; helps eliminate fatigue, along with promoting general well-being.  COMMONLY ASKED QUESTIONS   What is a "functional" tea? BONKERS Performance Teas are called "functional" teas because we add nutraceuticals that provide an additional health benefit.   Why are "Diet Teas" traditionally not healthy or effective in weight loss? Most “weight loss” teas contain strong botanical or herbal laxatives and diuretics. These herbal supplemented teas can cause diarrhea and loss of water from the body, which in turn can lead to the depletion of sodium, potassium (hypokalemia) and dehydration. Although your weight may decrease, the loss is fluid, not fat loss and is only temporary. Sort of a mirage…Moreover, low sodium and potassium levels may cause abnormal heartbeats and can even lead to death. What are the herbs in the “Diet Teas” that cause a laxative effect? Senna is a popular herbal laxative and diet tea additive. It is often an ingredient in herbal "diet teas". Senna basically stimulates the colon, which in turn can result abdominal cramping, extreme diarrhea, nausea and dehydration. Toxicologists say that this herb can cause an electrolyte imbalance so serious it can lead to arrhythmia and heart failure. The false sense of weight loss through elimination is ludicrous as the temporary weight loss is water, not fat. Lastly, using this type of herbal supplement on a long-term basis can cause a type of dependency and lead to impaired colon function. What herbs should you avoid in a "Diet Tea"? Avoid senna, aloe, buckthorn, rhubarb root, cascara, and castor oil. Other potentially harmful ingredients in diet teas include: Ma huang, locust plant, wymote, ginseng, honeysuckle, and chaparral. Why is Bonkers “Super Skinny” different from other “Diet Teas”? Super Skinny does not contain any laxatives or added diuretics. We do not use any potentially harmful herbs that are listed above.  Bonkers teas contain proven nutraceuticals, to support weight loss efforts. Super Skinny adds to any healthful regime by being a tea that contains vitamins, minerals, amino acids and antioxidants, which nourish your body, not deplete it. Super Skinny is a tea that anyone can drink on a daily basis whether on a weight loss program or for the individual that just wants to maintain a healthy lifestyle. And as we all know, any weight loss program is only effective when combined with a healthy diet and exercise plan. NOTE: Before using any form of weight loss supplements, please consult your doctor. What are Antioxidants*and why are they so beneficial to our health? According scientific studies, antioxidants have important protective properties our bodies need. Research has shown that antioxidants are intimately involved in the prevention of cellular damage, which leads to various cancers, aging and a variety of diseases. Scientific evidence suggests that antioxidants can reduce risks related to chronic diseases such as cancer and heart disease. Naturally occurring antioxidants are found in foods such as whole grains, fruits and vegetables. In a typical diet, antioxidants are primarily derived from plant sources.   The main characteristics of antioxidants are their ability to trap free radicals, which can oxidize nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, or DHA and can initiate degenerative diseases. These antioxidant molecules interact safely with free radicals, thus terminating the chain reaction before damage to vital molecules can occur. A number of clinical studies suggest that the antioxidants found in fruits, vegetables, red wine and tea are the main reasons for the effectiveness of these foods in reducing the incidence of chronic diseases and some cancers. Furthermore, epidemiologic observations have shown lower cancer rates in those whose diets are rich in fruits and vegetables. Although it is clear that antioxidants are imperative for optimum health, it is not clear if extra dietary supplementation is as beneficial as ingesting them through the foods we eat and drink. What is a flavonoid?   Flavonoids act as antioxidants. Flavonoids are a group of chemical compounds naturally found in certain fruits, vegetables, teas, wines, nuts, seeds, and roots. Although not considered vitamins, flavonoids have a number of nutritional functions have been described as biological response modifiers; most act as antioxidants, and some have anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids have been shown to prevent or slow the development of some cancers. (Taken from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)   Green Tea has more flavonoids than black tea and white tea has more flavonoids than both of them. White Tea is the rarest and most delicate of tea. White tea represents the least processed form of tea. Unlike black and green teas, white tea is simply air dried in natural sunlight, this preserves more of its antioxidant properties. About three times as many antioxidant polyphenols as the green tea.   Tip: It is recommended that tradition green and black teas (teas from the Camellia Sinensis plant) need to brew at least 3 minutes. Steeping helps extract the healthy antioxidants in the tea more completely. Letting the tea steep for 3 to 5 minutes extracts 69 - 85% of the flavonoids. Note: Flavonoids are not usually found in bottled or canned teas.   What is a Polyphenol? Polyphenols act as antioxidants. Polyphenols are a group of vegetable chemical substances, characterized by the presence of more than one phenolic group. Their phenolic reactions produce gelatines, alkaloids and other proteins. The polyphenols are responsible for the coloring of some plants.    Polyphenols (Tea is a rich source for antioxidants). Flavonoids and catechins are groups of polyphenolic compounds. They help fight against cancer-causing radicals and heart disease. Tea polyphenols are compounds in tea leaves that are natural plant     antioxidants. These polyphenols have demonstrated several cancer preventive properties. In addition to antioxidant activity, these compounds may: reduce abnormal cell growth and inflammation, help the body get rid of cancer-causing agents and restore communication between different cells in the body. What is the difference between black, green, white and red tea? Both black, green, oolong and white tea all come from the Camellia Sinensis plant. It is the processing of the leaves that determines the type of tea and the flavonoid content. Common green and black tea leaves consist of about 25-30 percent flavonoids. Note: A Flavonoid is any of a group of antioxidant chemical compounds widely found in certain fruits, vegetables, teas, wines, nuts seeds and roots. Often as a pigment. Black tea is simply the fermented version of green tea. The process of making black tea is called “withering”. The leaves are spread on trays called “tats”. As the leaves dry they lose their moisture and begin to wilt, which takes about 18 hours. The leaves are then rolled, twisting and bruising the leaves, which encourages fermentation to begin. This oxidation process causes the leaves to turn coppery brown. The leaves are then sifted for like size, so they will ferment at the same rate. This allows the leaves to cool and aerate. When tea has fermented to the desired level, the leaves are then fired to stop the process and destroy any bacteria. It is then spread out to cool, be graded and sorted. It is the fermentation gives black tea its body and strength resulting in a stronger tasting brew. Green tea is dried immediately after processing. Since there is no fermentation, the tea is light in color and taste. It is still caffeinated, unless it is put through a decaffeination process, and still contains tannic acid, which are natural characteristics of the plant. Oolong is partially fermented, so represents a sort of half way point between green and black tea. The semi-fermentation process is accomplished by after rolling the tea, the tea is allowed to ferment only until the edges of the leaves start to turn brown. When the tea reaches the exact stage, the fermentation process is stopped by firing the leaves in a pan. This stops the fermentation creating a uniquely fragrant tea. White tea is the least processed. Rare white teas come only from the buds and taken from a very rare variety of the tea plant. It is generally harvested for only a few days each year and undergoes almost no transformation once it is harvested. It is merely dried and withered. These teas are usually very delicate in flavor. Note: Below see the processing of tea according to Dr. Andrew Weil. Red Tea or Rooibos or AKA Bush Tea is from South Africa and has no relation to teas that come from the Camellia Sinensis plant. Please refer to the Rooibos/Honeybush section above for further information. Green Tea has more flavonoids than black tea and white tea has more flavonoids than both of them. White Tea is the rarest and most delicate of tea. White tea represents the least processed form of tea. Unlike black and green teas, white tea is simply air dried in natural sunlight, this preserves more of its antioxidant properties. About three times as many antioxidant polyphenois as the green tea.  Does decaffeinating tea make it lose all its healthful benefits?   According to Dr. Andrew Weil, www.drweil.com, 9/30/2003: The health benefits of tea are related to the polyphenols (catechins) it contains. These manage to survive much of the processing that the tea undergoes after harvest. The natural process used for decaffeinating tea retains 95% of the polyphenols. Does Green tea have less caffeine than black? First off many believe that green tea does not have caffeine. It does unless it is decaffeinated. And No, green and black tea both have the same amount of caffeine. They come from the same plant, Camellia Sinensis. The difference can be in preparation. Caffeine is highly water-soluble at high temperatures and goes into solution very quickly. Generally green tea is prepared at a lower temperature (170°-180°F) and black tea at a higher temperature (200°-212°). It is the higher temperature that will result in the leaching out of more caffeine. If green tea is prepared at a higher temperature, then you will get about the same caffeine content. How much tea should I drink per day? There have been many recent studies over the last 10 years done at major medical universities in the United States, which have found that black and green tea are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are known to be cancer inhibitors. Studies have shown that people that drink 4-5 cups of tea per day have exhibited up to 50% lower probability of contracting specific types of cancer, such as breast and colon cancer. Research in the last 2-3 years have shown through initial studies that there is a lower incidence of heart disease among those who consume 3 or more cups of tea per day. Now who wants to be a  tea-totler?? Why are low tannins important? Tannins attach themselves to certain digestive enzymes bound to the membrane of the small intestine, which block the absorption of important nutrients. Note: Yerba Maté, Rooibos and Honeybush teas are all low in tannins. What is Matéine? It is widely disputed if the caffeine in Maté is different than the caffeine found in products like coffee and tea. Many say yes and others say no, so it is really up to your own body chemistry to see if there is a distinction. The following information can be found on various websites and is up to your own interpretation. Like caffeine, matéine stimulates the nervous system, but does not produce the negative side effects that caffeine does. To better explain the caffeine/matéine debate, from “Yerba Mate: Unequaled Natural Nutrition” by Daniel Mowry, PhD, the following was written. Mateine has a unique pharmacology and it is unfair to compare it to caffeine. Mateine appears to possess the best combination of xanthine properties possible. For example, like other xanthines, it stimulates the central nervous system, but unlike most, it is not habituating or addicting. Likewise, unlike caffeine, it induces better, not worse attributes of sleep. It is a mild, not a strong, diuretic, as are many xanthines. It relaxes peripheral blood vessels, thereby reducing blood pressure, without the strong pressor effect on the medulla and heart exhibited by some xanthines. We also know that it improves psychomotor performance without the typical xanthine-induced depressant after effects.   Dr. Jose martin, Director of the National Institute of Technology in Paraguay, writes, ‘New research and better technology have shown that while matéine has a chemical constituency similar to caffeine, the molecular binding is different. Matéine has none of the ill effects of caffeine.’ And Horacio Conesa, professor at the University of Buenos Aires Medical School, states, ‘there is not a single medical contraindication’ for ingesting mate. Clinical studies show, in fact, that individuals with caffeine sensitivities can ingest mate without adverse reactions.’  Will tea caffeine make me jittery? Caffeine is caffeine. But the coffee bean has many other chemicals that interact with the caffeine causing that jittery, racy feeling. Tea does not have these additional chemicals. So you will have to see for yourself. Everybody’s system reacts differently.   What is a nutraceutical? A food or naturally occurring food supplement thought to have a beneficial effect on human health. Nutraceuticals are derived from nature and can be defined as simply a nutritional supplement.     PLEASE NOTE: Statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The FDA does not evaluate or test herbs and health foods. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease. For diagnosis or treatment, consult your physician. Use herbs in moderation and watch for allergic reactions. Remember that diet, exercise and relaxation are equally important to your health.     Get the edge…It’s in the bag!