Gema García Marcos

Updated Monday, March 25, 2024-15:15

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Before starting with the guide so as not to get lost in the universe of infusions, María Amaro, nutrition specialist, points out: "It is important

to differentiate between infusions and teas

, which are distinguished not only in their preparation, which is quite similar, but also in the impact they have on us. The latter are made from camellia sinensis, which has theine."

FOR BREAKFAST

"There are quite a few alternatives that provide a

stimulating effect similar to that of coffee

, such as

chicory

which, although it does not have caffeine, gives us a certain vigor, as does chamomile which, as I usually say, is good for everything. Digestive and light, pennyroyal

, in addition to helping to detoxify us, will give us energy to face the morning.

Rooibos - also known as red tea, although it is not tea, because it does not have theine

-

is a very interesting option due to its high fiber and antioxidants. By raising estrogen levels, it improves our mood. But be careful, because, due to this same reason, its consumption is not indicated for people with pathologies of hormonal origin. Black is very astringent and can cause constipation. Very popular "In countries like Argentina, Paraguay and Uruguay,

mate

does have caffeine, so its stimulating effect is more intense, and it is a powerful antioxidant."

In addition to "helping us regulate cholesterol and avoid the formation of cavities due to its fluoride content,

green tea

is an excellent diuretic. My recommendation is

to take it 20 minutes before or after a meal

, because this enhances the absorption of magnesium, vitamins C and E, minerals and proteins from food. Starting the day with a cup of green tea, in addition to giving us a boost of energy, will make us feel more satiated."

TO IMPROVE DIGESTION

In addition to green tea and chamomile, Amaro recommends "

fennel infusion

which, among its many benefits, promotes intestinal function, reduces gas production and mitigates menstrual pain. It works as a stomach 'tonic', combating diarrhea or Colic".

This specialist emphasizes that "another wonderful infusion for digestive health is

ginger

, because, in addition to having anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it stimulates the pancreas, increasing the production of enzymes."

With a bitter taste, "the

artichoke infusion

is prepared by boiling the leaves of this herbaceous plant and is very useful, both for eliminating fat and relieving heaviness or heartburn. Thanks to its satiating and purifying properties, "helps you lose weight."

FOR LIQUID RETENTION

In addition to the aforementioned green tea, after eating, we can order "a

horsetail infusion

that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, but can cause vitamin B1 deficiency when used long term."

FOR A FLAT BELLY

To green tea, horsetail and chamomile, "which is great for relaxing muscles", María Amaro adds

mint and lemon infusion

. These are their reasons: "Rich in antioxidants, it has anti-inflammatory properties and is very useful for ending a bloated belly, because it helps prevent gas, improves constipation, activates the metabolism and relieves stomach pain." And cinnamon, which, as she points out, "is the most powerful anti-inflammatory."

FOR SLEEPING

Amaro points out "to valerian, lemon

verbena, passionflower and lavender

." Less known, but "very interesting, because it induces quality sleep, is banana

,

which is prepared by boiling the peel of this fruit. They have a high content of magnesium and potassium, two minerals directly related to the quality of sleep. , and promotes the production of tryptophan."