Live Well Vitamins & Lifestyle Guide

Guarana

Guarana is derived from the seeds of a South American tree. Because it’s high in caffeine, guarana has become a popular energy supplement.

Guarana Uses

Researchers once believed that the active ingredient of guarana was a chemical specific to the plant – guaranine. But they later discovered that it was just caffeine. Guarana has among the highest concentrations of caffeine in any plant. It may contain up to 6% to 7% caffeine. Coffee only has up to 2%.

Coffee and other caffeinated beverages seem to increase alertness when consumed throughout the day. Although caffeine can improve mental performance and alertness in sleep-deprived people, it’s unclear what effects guarana may have.

Experts have not studied guarana extensively. So far, studies have not found that guarana is helpful for improving cognitive ability or mood. Some people use guarana to boost athletic or sexual performance. But there’s no evidence to back up this up.

There’s some evidence that guarana – when used along with other supplements – may promote weight loss. It’s uncertain if the guarana specifically was responsible. Because caffeine is a stimulant that has been shown to improve mood and aid weight loss, guarana may very well also have these effects.

Some believe that the effects of guarana are less intense and longer-lasting than caffeine. Studies have not established this

Guarana Dose & Instructions for Use

There is no standard dose of guarana. For energy, some people use between 200 to 800 mg a day. Ask your doctor for advice.

Guarana Food Sources

Besides the guarana seed itself, there are no natural food sources of guarana. It has become a common additive to some foods and drinks.

Guarana Supplement Information

Guarana may come in tablets or capsules or as an additive in foods and drinks. As with any supplement, keep guarana in a cool, dry place, away from humidity and direct sunlight.

Guarana Warnings

• Side effects. The side effects of guarana are generally the same as the side effects of caffeine. They include sleep problems, anxiety, restlessness, upset stomach, and quickened heartbeat. Long-term use of caffeine may result in tolerance and psychological dependence.
  
  
• Risks. High doses of caffeine may raise the risk of increased heart rate, breast disease, and high blood pressure. An overdose of caffeine can cause seizures and convulsions. Talk to your doctor before using guarana if you have high blood pressure, anxiety disorders, glaucoma, osteoporosis, heart problems, bleeding disorders, diabetes, kidney problems, or liver disease.
  
  
• Interactions. If you take any medications regularly, talk to your doctor before you start using guarana supplements. They could interact with medicines like some antidepressants, lithium, sedatives, and blood thinners. Don’t use guarana along with other stimulants, whether they’re medications, supplements, or street drugs.

Given the lack of evidence about its safety – and because of its high caffeine content -- guarana is not recommended for children or for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.