Is Yerba Mate Acidic? What You Need to Know

If you’ve ever had coffee on an empty stomach, you know the feeling—heartburn, acid reflux, or a general discomfort that can throw off your whole day. That’s why more people are asking: Is yerba mate acidic? And more importantly—is it easier on your stomach than other drinks?

Let’s break it down.

Technically, yes—but only mildly acidic.

Yerba mate has a pH level between 5 and 6, depending on how it's prepared. For comparison:

• Coffee: pH 4.5–5 (more acidic)

• Black tea: pH 4.9–5.5

• Soda: pH ~3 (very acidic)

• Water: pH 7 (neutral)

Coffee: pH 4.5–5 (more acidic)

Black tea: pH 4.9–5.5

Soda: pH ~3 (very acidic)

Water: pH 7 (neutral)

So while yerba mate isn’t alkaline, it’s far less acidic than coffee or most energy drinks, and it tends to be gentler on your digestive system.

Even though it's technically acidic, many people report less heartburn or stomach discomfort with yerba mate compared to coffee. Why?

• Lower caffeine per serving = less acid production

• No added sugar or dairy (especially with clean products like Teko)

• Antioxidants and polyphenols that may reduce inflammation

Lower caffeine per serving = less acid production

No added sugar or dairy (especially with clean products like Teko)

Antioxidants and polyphenols that may reduce inflammation

And when you drink it cold—like tereré, the Paraguayan style—it’s even gentler on the stomach.

Read More: What is Terere?

At Teko, we made sure our blends would be:

• Low-acid

• Easy on the stomach

• Refreshing enough to enjoy any time of day—even on an empty stomach

Low-acid

Easy on the stomach

Refreshing enough to enjoy any time of day—even on an empty stomach

Because our sticks are infused with fruit and completely sugar-free, you get a clean, hydrating energy boost—without the acidity overload.

Whether you choose Teko Balance or Teko Boost, you're getting all the benefits of yerba mate in a format that's light, smooth, and non-irritating.

“It’s easier on my stomach than coffee. I can drink it first thing in the morning with no problems.”
— Early Teko tester

“It’s easier on my stomach than coffee. I can drink it first thing in the morning with no problems.”
— Early Teko tester

“I like that it doesn’t feel heavy or acidic, especially with cold water.”
— Lemon Balance drinker

“I like that it doesn’t feel heavy or acidic, especially with cold water.”
— Lemon Balance drinker

Read more about what people say: What does Yerba Mate taste like?

Yes, yerba mate is mildly acidic, but it’s far less acidic than coffee or sodas. Most people find it much easier on the stomach—especially when cold-brewed or when using clean, sugar-free products like Teko.

Yes—many people do. Yerba mate is mild enough for most people to drink before eating, especially cold blends like Teko Balance.

Rarely. It’s much less likely to trigger acid reflux compared to coffee. If you’re sensitive, try cold tereré-style preparation for even gentler results.

Yes—cold-brewing can reduce the perception of acidity and makes yerba mate easier to digest. That’s one reason Teko is designed to be cold-mixed.


Learn more about hot vs cold yerba mate!