If you’re looking for a delicious drink that can help you lose weight naturally, oolong tea might just become your new favorite ally.
Originating in China, people have used this healing tea as a medicinal beverage for thousands of years because of its numerous health benefits.
Tea is one of the most popular beverages worldwide, and although oolong tea is less well-known than green or black tea, it is one of the three major tea types, these categories include: non-fermented teas (green tea), semi-fermented teas (oolong tea), and fully fermented teas (black tea) (1).
Although all of these teas come from the same plant, Camellia sinensis, different processing methods result in variations in color, flavor, and aroma, while also providing distinct health benefits.
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea
Oolong tea’s positive effects are backed by numerous studies highlighting its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties (2), these qualities make it an excellent choice to strengthen the immune system and reduce the risk of various illnesses.
Additionally, oolong tea has been studied for its ability to boost metabolism and aid in fat burning (3), while other studies point to its antioxidant, anti-cancer, anti-diabetic, and protective effects against cardiovascular and allergic conditions (4).
Curious about how oolong tea could benefit you? Read on to discover all the advantages of this unique drink!
6 Ways Oolong Tea Benefits Your Body and Health
Stay with us until the end to learn how much oolong tea you should drink each day, as well as some tips for brewing the perfect cup and maximizing its benefits.
Boosts Your Metabolism
Oolong tea is widely known for its metabolic effects, with a Japanese study showing that both green and oolong teas are effective at boosting metabolism and promoting weight loss (5), another study found that oolong tea not only improves metabolism but also increases fat oxidation, which translates to higher calorie burning (6).
Consuming oolong tea regularly can help you maintain a lower body fat percentage when combined with a balanced diet and exercise.
Good for Gut Health
The polyphenols present in oolong tea act as prebiotics, which means they nourish beneficial bacteria in the gut and promote a healthy gut microbiota balance (7), additionally, the antiseptic and antibacterial properties of oolong tea limit the growth of harmful bacteria, improving digestion and reducing inflammation in the digestive tract. This alkalizing effect can also prevent gastric issues, making oolong tea an excellent choice for those looking for natural gut support.
Helps Reduce Body Fat
Oolong tea is an effective tool to combat fat accumulation, especially in stubborn areas like the abdomen; Studies show that catechin rich teas, such as oolong tea, promote fat oxidation (8)(9). Furthermore, another study demonstrated that oolong tea can reduce fat absorption in the body and increase fat excretion (10) a remarkable benefit, making it a great addition for those looking to lower body fat healthily.
Appetite Control and Blood Sugar Regulation
While there is no conclusive evidence linking oolong tea directly with appetite reduction, some people report feeling fuller when drinking it before or after meals, research shows that oolong tea helps to lower blood sugar levels, which is particularly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes (11). Stable blood sugar levels are essential for reducing cravings and hunger, making it easier to manage food intake.
Cardiovascular Health Benefits
Regular consumption of oolong tea has protective effects on the cardiovascular system, studies indicate that it lowers triglycerides and cholesterol levels (12), including LDL or “bad” cholesterol, when consumed long-term (13). In Taiwan, a study showed that people who regularly drink oolong tea have a significantly lower risk of developing hypertension (14), making it an excellent choice for heart health.
Boosts Mood and Combats Depression
Oolong tea doesn’t just improve your mood, it also boosts cognition and brain function, supporting better mental health (15); The antioxidants and amino acids found in oolong tea help reduce stress and improve concentration, making it an ideal choice to start your day with mental clarity and positivity.
How Much Oolong Tea Should You Drink to Reap Its Benefits?
Start by drinking 1 to 2 cups a day, and you can increase it to up to 4 cups daily if you’d like, just keep in mind that oolong tea contains caffeine, so monitor your intake if you’re sensitive to it or if you prefer to limit caffeine in your diet.
Brew the Perfect Cup of Oolong Tea
Ingredients
- 1 teaspoon of oolong tea leaves
- 1 cup of hot water (just below boiling)
Instructions
- Add oolong tea leaves to a cup of hot water (approximately 190°F).
- Let it steep for 5 minutes.
- Strain before drinking, unless you’re using a tea bag.
- Avoid boiling the water to preserve the tea’s antioxidants.
- It’s best enjoyed hot to maximize its health benefits.
Summary
Oolong tea, a traditional Chinese beverage, is semi-fermented, giving it a unique flavor and aroma, its growing popularity is due to its ability to:
- Boost metabolism and support weight loss
- Improve digestion and maintain a healthy gut balance
- Protect against conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer
We hope you found this information helpful, share this article so others can discover the health benefits of oolong tea and improve their well-being naturally!
