Oolong tea is traditional Chinese tea. It is made from the same plant used in black tea and green teas, but the leaves are processed differently. Only China and Taiwan use this tea as a daily beverage while worldwide most of its use is solely for its medicinal value. Oolong tea benefits to type 2 diabetics as an additional medication on top of the prescribed medication. It is also used as a remedy for eczema, especially for atopic dermatitis.
This tea-making process is called fermentation. The exposure of the tea leaves to the air causes them to ferment, and the length of time a tea maker allows the leaves to oxidize affects the color, flavor, and to an extent nutritional content. As a semi-oxidized tea, Oolong tea contains a variety of antioxidants, including many of the antioxidants found in both green and black tea, are nutrients that protect our cells from damage caused by aging, our lifestyle, and the environment. Over time, this damage contributes to many long-term diseases. This article discusses the health benefits of Oolong tea.
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Benefits of Oolong Tea
1. For weight loss
The presence of polyphenolic compounds in Oolong tea is the primary source of weight loss. It regulates the metabolism of body fat and also activates certain enzymes, thereby increasing the function of fat cells which reduces obesity.
2. For Diabetes
The presence of antioxidants in Oolong tea from polyphenols regulates the amount of blood sugar and insulin in the bloodstream which reduces the risk of uncertain drops and spikes in blood sugar that can prove fatal for diabetics. It lowers blood sugar to healthy levels and is also used as an additional medication for type 2 diabetes.
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3. Good for cholesterol & heart disease
Oolong tea acts as a powerful catalyst in lowering cholesterol levels and making the heart healthier, thereby reducing the risk of coronary heart disease. Unlike black tea, it is not fully oxidized, thus producing a full-size polyphenol molecule that activates the enzyme lipase which dissolves body fat. The lower the body fat, the lower the cholesterol.
4. Treating eczema
The most common type of eczema is atopic dermatitis which cannot be completely cured. However, the polyphenols and antioxidants in oolong tea also act as anti-allergenic compounds, helping to alleviate burns and long-term skin problems. Regular consumption of oolong tea significantly reduces the presence of eczema.
5. For mental health
Oolong tea is rich in caffeine and also contains L-theanine, a nutrient linked to a direct effect on brain function. Confusing information processing, alertness, calmness and attention levels and performance have increased from drinking oolong tea. The EGCG polyphenols in oolong tea maintain and improve the function of the hippocampus, a part of the brain associated with learning and memory.
6. Prevent plaque buildup
Oolong tea prevents tooth decay and the growth of bacteria that cause oral cancer. The polyphenol present helps in overall dental health and hygiene. The recommended consumption of oolong tea counteracts plaque buildup, fights tooth decay and prevents cavities.
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7. May lower the cancer risk
Oolong tea is full of compounds like catechins and antioxidants that may play a small role in preventing cancer. According to a Chinese study, oolong tea can help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in women. Drinking hot oolong tea can help you get the most benefits.
8. May boost your immunity
Oolong tea is rich in antioxidant flavonoids that fight cellular damage by improving your immune system. It can boost your body’s production of antibacterial proteins, which help fight infections.
9. Improves skin health
Oolong tea can suppress allergic reactions as it fights free radicals. Antioxidants are essential for skin health. This tea helps treat acne and spots and wrinkles, and other signs of aging.
Oolong tea is especially useful for eczema with allergies or sensitivities. Drinking oolong tea three times a day for six months can give you better health results.
10. May improve bone density
It is essential when the loss of calcium from your body is like menopause. According to studies, drinking oolong tea can prevent this by maintaining high bone density. [1] It contains more calcium and magnesium which keeps your bones strong. The polyphenols in tea can help increase bone mass and bone strength.
11. May prevent tooth decay
Oolong tea can protect your teeth from acids produced by various bacteria. One study showed that washing your face with oolong tea can significantly prevent plaque buildup.
Uses of Oolong Tea
Boil water in a pot, once the water is boiled, add 2 tablespoons of Oolong tea, then boil well and put the tea in a cup with a candle lid and cover the cup for about 1 minute. Then drink this tea hot. Oolong tea can also be used in combination with black tea and green tea.
Side Effects of Oolong Tea
The presence of caffeine is the only concern with the side effects of oolong tea. Different people have different levels of caffeine tolerance but still high levels of caffeine consumption can expose you to various health problems. It can range from mild to severe headache, anxiety, sleep problems, itching, diarrhea, vomiting, heart rate variations, heartburn, dizziness, tremors, ringing in the ears, convulsions and confusion.
Therefore, Oolong tea should be used in the right amount considering the benefits and harms as excessive use of any product can harm our health. The above is information provided for general knowledge purposes only. It is recommended to consult a doctor before using Oolong tea for medicinal purposes.
Special Precaution and Warning
If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, Oolong tea is probably safe to consume in 3 cups or less per day. This amount of tea provides about 300 mg of caffeine. Exceeding this amount during pregnancy is probably unsafe and associated with an increased risk of miscarriage, premature delivery and low birth weight. Also, caffeine can pass into breast milk, so nursing moms should closely monitor caffeine intake to keep it on the low side (1-2 cups per day). High consumption of caffeine by breastfeeding mothers may result in sleep problems, itching and increased arm activation in breastfed newborns.
Conclusion
The information discussed in this article is about the health benefits of Oolong tea. In this article you will learn about the benefits and harms, uses and other information of Oolong tea. I hope the information mentioned in this article will be useful to you. Thank you!
FAQ
1. Does Oolong tea burn belly fat?
Ans: Studies show that Oolong tea can help reduce weight and body fat by increasing metabolism and improving fat burning.
2. Can I drink Oolong tea on an empty stomach?
Ans: The decision to drink Oolong tea before or after a meal is entirely up to you, but with our research and personal experience, we’d recommend waiting at least 30 minutes after eating. At the very least, avoid drinking oolong tea on an empty stomach, as strong side effects are a real possibility.
3. What makes Oolong tea unique?
Ans: Oolong tea contains high levels of antioxidants that provide various health benefits. However, research has shown that oolong tea nutrients have stronger antioxidant and antimutagenic effects than green or black varieties. Research has shown that the polyphenols in oolong tea lower blood sugar levels.
4. Can I drink Oolong tea every day?
Ans: If taken orally, Oolong tea is safe to go for most healthy adults if taken in moderate amounts (about 4 cups per day). Oolong tea is probably unsafe to drink for a long time or with high water intake (more than 4 cups per day).
5. What is the best time to drink Oolong tea?
Ans: The best time to drink oolong tea is about 25 to 35 minutes after eating rice.