Oolong tea combines the benefits of black tea and green tea, helping to prevent many dangerous diseases.
What we eat and drink can increase or decrease our risk of certain diseases as well as have a more direct impact on our weight.
In some countries such as England, China, Vietnam, tea is a popular daily drink. Each type of tea has certain effects on health. Recently, British Dr. Tim Bond - Tea Advisory Council, recommended drinking oolong tea.
This is a traditional Chinese tea made from the leaves of the same plant that produces black and green tea. Oolong tea is partially oxidized after being picked. The finished product is round and the brew is yellow.
Although its potential health benefits have been noted for years, oolong tea accounts for only about 2% of tea consumed globally.
“Oolong tea is a precious tea, rich in polyphenols, which have been shown to have positive health effects,” says Dr. Bond. “It is made from the same plant as black and green tea, but processed differently. Oolong tea falls between green and black tea.”
Health Benefits of Oolong Tea
Dr. Bond explains the components of oolong tea that provide many of its benefits. “Oolong tea contains theasinins, which are different from the catechins in green tea and theaflavins in black tea. It is theasinins that contribute to the health benefits of oolong tea,” he says.
He said the drink could prevent diabetes, heart disease and even cancer, among other diseases.
“Research on oolong tea is still in its early stages, but laboratory analyses have shown that theasinensins have antioxidant activity, reduce inflammation, and protect against DNA damage,” continues Dr. Bond.
According to the magazineDiabetes Care,Other laboratory studies have also shown its effectiveness in controlling blood sugar, fighting cancer, and fighting bacteria. “A study in 10 men and 10 women with pre-existing diabetes found that drinking more than a liter of oolong tea per day for 10 weeks significantly reduced blood sugar levels,” Dr. Bond said.
Drinking oolong tea daily has proven its antioxidant properties, helping athletes recover their muscles after training and competition.
Oolong tea may also be good for weight loss because it boosts metabolism in women more than green tea. It also increases fat oxidation and metabolic rate in men.
“Other research has shown that oolong tea can improve heart disease, help lower blood pressure, and protect teeth and bones,” adds Dr. Bond. Dr. Bond recommends drinking two to three cups a day to reap these benefits.
According to Vietnamnet