Although tea is a popular beverage, oolong is only consumed by 2% of the world’s population. The most consumed is black tea, which is preferred by 78% of the population, particularly people from the Western countries. Tea is well-known for its many benefits, including promoting weight loss and heart health.
Oolong is just like many other teas as it has health benefits as well, but what’s really interesting about this type of tea is that it combines the qualities of green and dark teas. So, if you’ve been invited to sip on oolong tea, here are the reasons why you should not hesitate:
1. Nutritious
Oolong tea has many nutrients in just a small cup, including:
- Fluoride
- Manganese
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Niacin
- Magnesium
Of course, as a type of tea, oolong contains caffeine, which is approximately 36mg.
2. Anti-Diabetes
Aside from the mentioned nutrients above, it is important to note that oolong tea comes with polyphenol antioxidants that are thought to be helpful in patients with diabetes and pre-diabetes. The polyphenols can lower both insulin and blood sugar levels, while boosting sensitivity to insulin. These characteristics are enough to greatly reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
3. Heart Health
Many studies have already proven that drinking tea regularly can lower blood pressure and bad cholesterol levels, which can give way to a healthier heart. A study involving over 76,000 Japanese people discovered that drinking at least eight ounces of oolong tea every day can result to 61% of reduced heart disease risk.
4. Weight Loss
Some polyphenols in oolong tea may help increase metabolism, while reducing the amount of fat that gets absorbed from the food we eat. This is achieved by activating the enzymes that allow the body to use fat for energy.
5. Skin Benefits
Three cups of oolong tea may help improve eczema. Plus, the tea may have anti-aging benefits because of its antioxidants. It can prevent wrinkles and even improve skin vitality, giving you a more youthful appearance.
6. Hair Benefits
Oolong may be able to prevent hair loss in men by ensuring proper metabolism of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), the hormone responsible for preventing male pattern baldness. Oolong tea may also soften and add luster to hair.
Oolong tea is a renowned tea in China. It comes from Camellia sinensis, the same plant used to produce black and green teas. However, oolong is processed with the tea leaves allowed to oxidize without turning black.