Guarana for metabolism: How the plant works

Guarana, a superfood of the latest generation? Not really. The inhabitants of the Amazon basin have known and valued the "fruit of youth" for centuries. The first people to become acquainted with the Paullinia cupana plant were likely the Quaramis, a South American indigenous tribe.

Legend tells of a shoot of the liana-like plant that grew from the eyes of an Indian woman, bestowing strength and beauty. In 1669, the missionary Félipe Betendorf reported on what was likely the first energy drink in history, brewed by the Maué Indians. Guarana enabled the warriors to stay awake for several days on their hunting trips, thus serving as a natural stimulant.

Guarana has also made history in more recent times. At the beginning of the 19th century, Alexander von Humboldt recognized the potential of this plant, which can grow up to twelve meters tall. In 19th-century Germany, guarana was available by prescription to alleviate migraine symptoms. In the 1990s, many a partygoer raved about energy drinks containing guarana and danced until dawn.

Today, guarana is cultivated commercially. In Brazil, approximately 1,000 tons are harvested annually. The USA is the main consumer. The focus is on the plant's capsule fruits, which contain one to three seeds. The seeds are black to greenish and have a white "eye." This eye is associated with many legends that are still told in the Amazon region today.

We all know coffee wakes you up. But you haven't tried guarana yet. These red, bitter-tasting fruits contain four to eight percent caffeine in their dry weight. For comparison, coffee contains one to two percent caffeine, while black tea can have up to five percent. There's no doubt that guarana will wake you up quickly, and you might even skip your coffee altogether.

Guarana and weight loss have only been linked in recent years. Guarana powder can help reduce hunger and support fat burning .* The effects of guarana on weight loss and fat burning are currently being scientifically investigated in numerous studies. Even the indigenous people of the Amazon are enthusiastic about it and promote guarana as a miracle cure. Let's take a closer look.

Guarana is also found in numerous beauty products. Manufacturers take advantage of its high caffeine content. Check your bathroom; you'll probably find it in the following products:

• Shampoo : Caffeine helps improve blood circulation to the scalp.

• Shower gel : Caffeine is said to awaken the senses and dispel fatigue.

• Skin cream : Caffeine can invigorate and revitalize the skin.

• Eye cream : Caffeine is said to reduce swelling and alleviate under-eye bags and puffy eyes.

Guarana powder is not a pleasant taste experience. The powder tastes bitter and is bone dry. If you want to consume guarana on its own, you'll have to get creative and stir the powder into muesli, yogurt, or a drink.

It's much simpler with capsules. You don't have to worry about the dosage. This is important because with a strong stimulant like guarana, you absolutely must keep an eye on the dosage. This can be quite difficult with drinks, which is why capsules are the ideal beverage alternative.

Capsules are convenient and you can take them on the go. That's why our SHEKO Fat Burner comes in capsule form. These small capsules support fat burning * and help you lose weight **. In addition to the included guarana extract, you'll find the protected brand extract Sinetrol®¹ and a highly effective nutrient complex of zinc and chromium on the ingredient list. Taking three capsules daily will support your successful weight management and contribute to an increased fat metabolism*.

An overdose of guarana is unlikely. The recommended daily intake is approximately 20 grams. This corresponds to about ten teaspoons of the dusty powder that you would have to choke down.

Side effects can occur much earlier, however. If you are sensitive to caffeine, even small amounts can cause restlessness, tremors, sleep disturbances, or a racing heart. Generally, taking one to three grams of guarana poses no health risk.

People with the following medical conditions should be cautious and consult a doctor before consuming guarana:

• Kidney dysfunction
• Hyperthyroidism
• Anxiety disorders
• Cardiovascular problems

Guarana is a modern superfood that everyone is talking about, but it has a long history. This member of the soapberry family grows in the Amazon region, where it has been cultivated and consumed for centuries. Even in Germany, its medicinal properties have been known since the beginning of the 19th century.

Guarana seeds contain a high concentration of caffeine, many times higher than coffee beans. This means guarana can provide you with energy. The combination of its various ingredients also supports fat burning*. Therefore, the SHEKO Fat Burner... based on guarana, zinc, chromium and Sinetrol®¹. The latter also helps to reduce body fat*.