Guarana

Guarana, also written guaraná, is a stimulant made from the seeds of a vine found in Brazil and the jungles of the Amazon. Natives there employ guarana in many foods and drinks for its chocolate like flavor. The FDA has approved guarana as a food additive and it can be found in soft drinks, candies, drink mixers and weight-loss pills.

What is guarana used for?

The caffeine levels found in guarana are stronger than those in coffee or tea. Guarana is usually harnessed for its stimulating qualities. As a mixer, it gives an alcoholic beverage an energy boost and a unique flavor.

Taken orally as an extract, guarana curbs the appetite and excites the nervous system. These qualities have lead companies to include guarana in diet and weight-loss pills which help people keep energy levels up while not eating. It also is used as an aphrodisiac.

How should I take guarana?

Mix one or two spoonfuls of guarana in a cup of water for a healthy, once a day dose. Pills commonly come in doses ranging from 200 – 800 milligrams. Daily consumption of guarana should not exceed 3 grams. The FDA recommends that caffeine intake should not exceed 250 milligrams per day.

Are there any reservations I should have?

Ingesting too much guarana has the same effect as high doses of caffeine. Jitters and nervousness may follow, as well as insomnia, rapid pulse and abdominal pain. Withdrawal symptoms are also synonymous with those of caffeine which include irritability and headaches.

Guarana should be avoided by pregnant women and any patient suffering from irregular heartbeats or high blood pressure.

Exercise restraint

The high caffeine levels in guarana make it an effective stimulant. It can boost energy and curb appetites. But excessive use can lead to nervous and unstable conditions. Although used in many foods and drinks, direct consumption of guarana extract should be approached with care.