Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, will lead Argentina against England in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-final tonight (July 15) at Atlanta Stadium, airing on the BBC at 8pm. The 39-year-old Inter Miami star's diet has long intrigued fans, and a key component is yerba mate, a traditional South American herbal drink he regularly consumes and promotes.
Messi's Dietary Transformation
In a rare interview with La Cornisa, Messi detailed his shift to clean eating. He said: "I don't know what I ate but I ate badly for many years. At 22, 23... [it was] chocolate, alfajores, fizzy drinks. Now I eat well: fish, meat, vegetables, salads. Everything is organised and taken care of." He added that he occasionally enjoys wine, but noted that dietary changes resolved his vomiting issues: "They said it could be a lot of things, eventually I changed and it didn't happen any more."
What Is Yerba Mate?
Yerba mate is a herbal infusion made from the dried leaves and stems of Ilex paraguariensis, a holly species native to South America. It has an earthy taste and is commonly consumed as a breakfast drink, often replacing coffee or black tea. Each cup contains about 80–85 mg of caffeine, similar to a regular coffee and more than green or black tea.
Health Benefits of Yerba Mate
Yerba mate is rich in antioxidants, including polyphenols and chlorogenic acid, which neutralize free radicals, reduce cellular inflammation, protect DNA, and lower the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease. Clinical trials show it boosts lipid profiles by reducing LDL ("bad") cholesterol and preventing cholesterol oxidation in arteries, a key factor in heart attacks and strokes. It also contains saponins with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, supporting immunity, and provides micronutrients such as vitamins B and C, potassium, and magnesium.
Fat Burning and Endurance
Yerba mate is effective for fat burning and improving physical endurance. A study published in Nutrition and Metabolism found that consuming yerba mate before exercise increased fat oxidation by about 24% during light-to-moderate cardio. It helps break down stored fat cells, sending them into the bloodstream as energy. This process, called glycogen sparing, allows the body to use fat for fuel instead of depleting carbohydrate reserves, enhancing endurance. Additionally, yerba mate contains a mix of three natural stimulants—caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline—which boost central nervous system activity, reduce perceived exertion, and prevent lactic acid buildup, decreasing post-exercise soreness.
Who Should Avoid Yerba Mate?
While generally safe for healthy adults, yerba mate's high caffeine content and preparation methods mean some individuals should consult a doctor before consumption. This includes pregnant or breastfeeding women, people with anxiety or sleep disorders, those with gastrointestinal issues, individuals taking certain medications, and children.
