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GuaranaGuarana or
Guaraná plays an important role in Tupi and Guaraní Brazillian culture. The name 'guaraná' is derived from the Tupi-Guarani word wara'ná. These tribes believed it to be magical, a cure for bowel complaints and a way to regain strength. They also tell the myth of a 'Divine Child' that was killed by a serpent and whose eyes gave birth to this plant. Uses Guaraná is used as an ingredient in sodas and energy drinks and separately as a dietary supplement to promote health and/or weight loss. Beverages In addition to other chemicals, the guaraná plant contains caffeine (sometimes called guaranine), theophylline, and theobromine. Water extracts of the guarana plant are central nervous system stimulants due to the caffeine content. Energy drink manufacturers typically add synthetic caffeine or caffeine derived from coffee decaffeination. Energy drinks containing guaraná include Pepsi's Josta, Golly Guaraná, 180, Bawls, Rockstar, AMP, V, SoBe Adrenaline Rush, Guaraná Power, Mountain Dew MDX, Monster, Crunk!! Energy Drink, Sprite 3G, Von Dutch and Full Throttle. Vores Øl and Molson Kick are beers containing guaraná. Mixed drinks such as "Fu**ed by a Rockstar" are said to have aphrodisiac properties due to the guaraná content . Brazil produces several brands of soft drink from guaraná extract that contain no added caffeine. Each differs greatly in flavour; some with very little natural guarana fruit taste. In Brazil, sales of guarana drinks are second only to cola drinks. They are typically fizzy and sweet, with a very fruity aftertaste. Most guaraná drinks are produced in Brazil and consumed there or in nearby countries, such as Paraguay. Major brands include Guaraná Antarctica and Guaraná Brahma from AmBev, and Kuat from The Coca-Cola Company. A sizable number of local producers also create drinks not for export. Weight loss and health supplement Studies involving guaraná show benefits to cognitive function (PMID 16533867). They have not been evaluated by the FDA or similar government agencies. In the United States, guaraná holds a GRAS-status, i.e. generally regarded as safe and must be labeled as not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The Journal of Human Nutrition and Dietetics published a study in June of 2001 showing an average 11.2 pound weight loss in
A university study in Brazil of guarana extract showed a platelet aggregation decrease of up to 37% of control values and platelet thromboxane formation from arachidonic acid of up to 78% of control values . This study may be significant to stroke and heart attack risk reduction because when platelets hyperaggregate or excess thromboxane formation occurs, an arterial blood clot can develop, resulting in a heart attack or ischemic stroke . A separate 1997 study of the effects of guarana on the physical activity of rats showed an increase in memory retention and physical endurance when compared with a placebo . Other studies have shown antioxidant, antibacterial, and fat cell reduction (when combined with Conjugated Linoleic Acid) properties in guaraná . Although side-effects of guaraná are rare, drugs.com recommends, "When considering the use of herbal supplements, consultation with a primary health care professional is advisable. Additionally, consultation with a practitioner trained in the uses of herbal/ health supplements may be beneficial, and coordination of treatment among all health care providers involved may be advantageous". Drugs.com also advises not to mix guaraná with ephedrine . Guaranine and caffeine The chemical guaranine is identical to caffeine derived from other sources, for example coffee, tea and mate. Guaranine, theine, mateina are all official synonyms for caffeine. See the searchable current databases listed below. Other useful herb information: Cascara Sagrada | Yerba | Bupleurum | Rose hips | Pau darco | Bilberry | Capsicum Page Content: guarana antarctica , guarana side effects , guarana extract , guarana seed , guarana seed extract , effects of guarana, guarana tablets, bawls guarana . |
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