Yerba mate is the national drink of Argentina.  Mate is dried green leaves and stems from the tree Ilex paraguarensis, which originates from Paraguay but is also cultivated in northern Argentina. It contains three xanthines (a chemical family which stimulates the central nervous system, acts as a diuretic, stimulates cardiac muscle, and relaxes smooth muscle) caffeine, theobromine and theophylline. Proponents of the beverage suggest it has powers such as mental stimulation, fatigue reduction, stress reduction, insomnia elimination, appetite control, and blood purification. Studies have demonstrated potential anti-cancer benefits, due in part to its long list of antioxidants. The main antioxidant found in yerba mate is chlorogenic acid, a polyphenol that was recognized in a 1998 study published in the American Journal of Physiology, to also potentially support weight management by reducing blood glucose levels.

On The Menu: Mate is traditionally brewed and served in a dried-out gourd and sipped through a filtered metal straw (bombilla), to prevent drinkers from ending up with a mouthful of the hay-flavored leaves. The gourd is often passed back and fourth and mate sometimes served with honey or sugar to cut the bitter taste.

Venturing to where the snow is deep, the toilet water flushes backwards, and the party’s don’t start until midnight can also provide healthy food and drink options. To think, in addition to the cardiovascular and mental health benefits of skiing, the breakfast beverage and dinner cuisine can also be extremely beneficial.