Benefits of Oolong Tea
You might have heard of some benefits of tea before, but did you know that the tea that makes up only 2 percent of the world’s tea intake can help prevent cancer and even heart disease? Oolong tea is partially oxidized to meet somewhere in the middle of a green tea and black tea, and it’s pretty great thing for your health. Although it originated in a province in China, we’re fortunate enough to take advantage of oolong tea benefits in the Western world as well. Whether you’re trying to prevent eczema, lose weight or prevent heart disease, this can be your new favorite tea. And those aren’t the only oolong tea benefits you’ll love. Here are more!
1. Manages Weight
The polyphenolic compound found in oolong tea is extremely effective in controlling the metabolism of fat in the body and reducing obesity. It activates certain enzymes, therefore enhancing the functions of fat cells in the body and consumption of this tea on a daily basis can reduce obesity. Some earlier studies actually showed that the caffeine content was an active ingredient for weight loss, but it now appears to be mainly due to the polyphenols. Apparently, the active components in oolong tea make fat work for you.
2. Cuts Heart Disease Risk
Researchers found that people who drank at least 10 ounces of oolong tea a week had a lower risk of high cholesterol. And people who had been consuming oolong tea for the longest time were found to have the lowest levels of cholesterol as well. Intake of oolong tea is also linked to reduced risk of death by cardiovascular disease. T
3. Lowers Cholesterol
Oolong is known to reduce cholesterol levels and promote heart health. Because oolong tea is semi-oxidized, it produces a perfectly sized polyphenol molecule that is able to activate the enzyme lipase, which is known to dissolve body fat.
4. Removes Harmful Free Radicals
The polyphenolic compound in oolong tea is responsible for the removal of free radicals in our body as it functions as an antioxidant. Consuming daily doses of oolong tea can help people against the potential harm that these free-moving cells often pose to the body, including cancer, atherosclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and diabetes.
5. Helps Prevent Diabetes
Research suggests that drinking six cups of oolong tea regularly for 30 days can help people with type 2 diabetes. It might also reduce and even stabilize blood sugar levels. The polyphenols in oolong tea might increase insulin activity, which directly benefits diabetics. Long-term consumption of oolong tea might also predict the onset of diabetes in individuals.
6. Aids Digestion
Oolong can help digestion for those who not sensitive to caffeine. The tea alkalizes the digestive tract, reducing inflammation in those with acid reflux and ulcer problems. Because it is mildly antiseptic, oolong tea can clear bad bacteria from your belly. Its calm, smooth flavor can soothe the stomach if consumed hot.
7. May Boost Brain Function
Several studies found that people who regularly drank black and oolong tea had 64 percent lower risk of brain function decline. This may be because of various factors, such as the caffeine, which can increase the release of the brain messenger hormones norepinephrine and dopamine which improves mood, attention and brain function.
As much as it can be very beneficial, it’s important to consume oolong tea in moderation because it contains caffeine. Two cups of oolong tea is recommended in order not to affect your sleep.
