THE caffeine and guarana are two natural stimulants commonly found in food and beverages. Although they share similarities in their stimulating effects, there are important differences between the two.
Understanding these differences can help you make decisions about your consumption and the most appropriate moments to enjoy its benefits.
Both coffee and guarana contain caffeine, which provides a physical and mental boost ideal for those looking to increase their cognitive or physical performance. However, beyond the similarities, there are major differences in their origin, composition and absorption rate.
The choice of how and when to consume them It depends on individual preferences and personal goals. It is important to be aware of the differences between the two and adjust your consumption based on your caffeine needs and tolerance.
What is the difference between caffeine and guarana: how it is recommended to consume it and the best times
According to a 2023 study published by Medical news todayTHE Guarana seeds contain between 2% and 8% caffeine. On the other hand, Coffee beans contain between 1% and 3% caffeine, according to the same source.
Caffeine, found in coffee among other compounds, provides a physical and mental boost. Furthermore, a review of eight placebo-controlled studies indicates that pure guarana may contain up to 5.3% caffeine, while Espresso contains approximately 0.21% caffeine. But let’s look at the differences:
What is caffeine
Caffeine is a chemical compound found in various plants, including coffee, tea, cocoa and some soft drinks. He is known for his ability to increase mental alertness, improve mood and combat tiredness.
What is guarana
Guarana, scientifically known as Paullinia cupana, is a plant native to the Amazon region and its fruit contains a high concentration of caffeine. It is often used in energy drinks and dietary supplements due to its properties stimulating properties.
Their differences:
- Natural origin. Caffeine is found in a variety of sources, while guarana is a specific natural source of caffeine that comes from the fruit of the guarana plant.
- Absorption speed. Caffeine from sources like coffee is absorbed into the body quickly, while guarana is often absorbed more slowly due to the natural matrix found in the fruit.
Guarana is a natural source of caffeine that is absorbed slowly. Photo: Clarin.- Other components. Guarana contains other compounds besides caffeine, such as tannins and antioxidants, which can affect how the body processes and uses caffeine.
Recommended consumption
Caffeine. Second Food and drug administration (FDA), the recommended amount of caffeine varies depending on individual tolerance and sensitivity to caffeine. However, it is advisable to limit daily consumption to around 400 milligrams, equivalent to about four standard cups of coffee. It is important to note that using multiple products containing guarana or other sources of caffeine can lead to side effects or even caffeine toxicity.
Guarana. The daily dose of caffeine from guarana should be between 200 and 1000 milligrams. Consuming more products containing guarana or other sources of caffeine may cause side effects or excess toxicity of caffeine. Given its concentration of caffeine, it is essential to follow the consumption recommendations indicated on products containing guarana, which may vary depending on the form of presentation of guarana (capsules, powder, energy drinks, etc.).
Drinks with guarana contain high doses of caffeine. Its consumption should be moderate. Photo: Shutterstock.Benefits of coffee and guarana
Both coffee and guarana offer a variety of properties for the body. Of course: it is important to consume them in moderation and as part of a balanced lifestyle to maximize their positive effects.
Benefits of Coffee:
- Improves alertness and increases attention.
- Increases performance in short-duration, high-intensity and endurance exercises.
- Helps reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and liver disease.
- Increases energy and physical resistance.
- By stimulating the metabolism, it contributes to weight loss.
Coffee plant, a drink that increases energy and physical resistance and increases concentration. Photo: EFE.- Improves concentration and memory.
Benefits of Guarana:
- It is a natural stimulant that increases wakefulness, concentration and memory.
- It has mild diuretic properties.
- It helps reduce hunger and thirst, making it useful in weight control plans.
- It can relieve headaches
Guarana increases concentration and memory. Photo: Shutterstock.- It contributes to the treatment of digestive disorders and heavy menstrual bleeding.
As for the best times to consume them, various studies have shown that incorporating caffeinated drinks or products containing guarana in the morning athelps increase energy to start the day.
They are also very effective before exercise as they help improve physical performance and resistance, helping to increase the intensity and duration of training.
Instead, they recommend avoiding both coffee and guarana as much as possible several hours before going to bed interfere with the quality of sleep and cause difficulty in reconciling it.
Source: Clarin
Mary Ortiz is a seasoned journalist with a passion for world events. As a writer for News Rebeat, she brings a fresh perspective to the latest global happenings and provides in-depth coverage that offers a deeper understanding of the world around us.