Consuming Oolong tea has been associated with many health benefits. Some studies have even discovered that tea may enhance weight loss. However, certain types are more effective than others. In this article, we highlight how you can speed up weight loss and decrease body fat by consuming this tea regularly.
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What is Oolong tea?
This tea, also known as Wu-long tea, is a traditional Chinese drink. It is obtained from a plant known as Camellia Sinensis. Through enzymatic oxidation, the loose leaf oolong ferments. The green tea leaves (without fermentation) become semi-brown (semi-fermented) then black (fully fermented). The tea is produced from semi-fermented tea leaves and has a unique color, taste, and texture.
Nutrition Facts about Oolong
Like other teas, oolong brew is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants owing to its many health benefits. A 100g cup of brewed Oolong brew not only contains 16mg of caffeine but also antioxidants such as EGCG, the arubigins, and the aflavins. Since it contains more antioxidants than green tea, it also helps boost your immunity.
Why Oolong tea for losing weight?
Both oolong brew and green tea are derived from the Camellia Sinensis plant. However, the variance between the two is that loose leaf oolong is plucked, left to dry under strong sunlight leaving it partially oxidized before being rolled up or twisted. Unlike green tea, oolong brew is partially oxidized. Hence it restores most of its lipid-lowering and antioxidant qualities. The antioxidants help remove toxic free oxygen elements. Free oxygen elements interfere with normal metabolism and cell function, which can result in weight gain.
In one study, the body fat percentage of 102 Chinese obese patients was measured. They then received 2 grams of Oolong brew twice a day for 6 weeks. During this period, a significant weight loss of 1 to 3 kg was noted as well as a decrease in waist length.
Another study has shown that fully brewed Oolong increases fat oxidation and energy expenditure. Metabolic rates increased from 3% to 7.2% in over 24 hours. This is as a result of the combination of caffeine and EGCG.
How does Oolong tea promote weight loss?
- The anti-obesity contrivance of Oolong brew is caused by theaflavins and EGCG. They regulate the energy balance and maintain the metabolism of carbohydrates and lipids, promoting enzymatic oxidation of lipids.
- Tea catechins inhibit lipogenesis by down-regulating the enzyme complex responsible for the synthesis of fatty acids.
- The polyphenols present have anti-inflammatory properties and instigate weight loss. They inhibit certain digestive enzymes reducing the rate of sugar and fat absorption in the intestine, thus controlling hunger and overeating. Moreover, they act on undigested carbohydrates in the intestine to create short-chain fatty acids, eventually owing to fatty acid oxidation.
- Increases metabolic rate by 10 percent and helps burn fat in the upper arms and abdomen. Caffeine and EGCG present promote the oxidation of fats. The combination of caffeine and catechin reduces the activity of pancreatic lipase, which has an anti-obesity influence.
- Drinking loose leaf oolong tea, for some time, can help reduce the prevalence of type 2 diabetes. Over time, it can also significantly reduce the levels of glucose and fructosamine in plasma.
How to Prepare Oolong tea?
Below are a few ways on how you can prepare Oolong tea for weight loss.
- Dip an Oolong bag for 5-7 minutes to a cup of hot water. Remember to take out the teabag before drinking it.
- Add a teaspoon of loose leaf oolong to a cup of hot water. Strain the tea leaves into a different cup after 5 minutes before drinking.
- Pour a cup of hot water to a teaspoon of Oolong tea powder. Strain after 3 minutes before drinking.
When to drink Oolong tea?
You can consume Oolong for breakfast, 30 minutes before dinner or lunch, and also as a night snack. For the best results, you should buy high-quality Oolong brew. Resolve to drink 2-3 cups of tea a day to maximize its benefits. However, do not go overboard in the name of losing weight quickly. Be careful because Oolong brew overdose can cause increased heart rate, kidney stones, anaemia, etc.
Given that there are different types of Oolong tea, what is the best Oolong tea for weight loss? Here is your answer.
Oolong For Weight Loss Varieties
There are two types of Oolong tea: green and dark Oolong tea. Both are good for weight loss. The only variance is that the green one is less oxidize, whereas the black one is roast and fully oxidized.
Oolong tea is a calorie-free drink with a variety of flavors. So, you can enjoy it without worrying about ingesting more calories. So, buy yourself a packet of Oolong brew today and begin your weight loss journey. Gradually develop a healthy lifestyle to maintain a healthy weight.