Introduction
Losing weight can be a challenging journey for many people. However, incorporating natural solutions like drinking oolong tea into your diet and exercise routine may help support your weight loss goals. Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea that has been consumed for centuries for its rich flavor and purported health benefits. Recent research suggests that oolong tea may help boost fat burning and support weight loss efforts when combined with a healthy lifestyle.
What is Oolong Tea?
Oolong tea is a classic Chinese tea made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It falls between green and black tea in terms of oxidation. While green tea is not allowed to oxidize much, and black tea is fully oxidized, oolong tea is only partially oxidized. This gives oolong a distinctive taste and color that is between green and black tea.
There are many popular varieties of oolong tea including:
- Da Hong Pao
- Tieguanyin
- Baozhong
- Huangjin gui
- Yancha
Oolong tea has a soothing, fruity or floral flavor. It contains caffeine as well as beneficial antioxidants called polyphenols, including a compound known as EGCG (epigallocatechin gallate). Research indicates that the polyphenols in oolong tea may help boost fat burning, improve metabolism, and aid weight loss.
Oolong Tea and Weight Loss
Several studies have found that drinking oolong tea may help enhance weight loss:
- One study showed that drinking oolong tea increased fat burning by 10% over a 3-hour period
- Participants in another study burned 2.9% more total calories per day after drinking oolong tea for 6 weeks
- Drinking oolong tea may also decrease blood sugar and insulin levels, which can improve satiety after meals
The polyphenols in oolong, especially EGCG, are thought to be responsible for its beneficial effects on metabolism and weight management. EGCG may stimulate the breakdown of fat cells and boost the activity of enzymes that help use stored fat for energy.
5 Best Types of Oolong Tea for Weight Loss
All true oolong teas may aid weight loss by boosting metabolism. However, certain varieties are thought to be particularly effective for fat burning and slimming. Here are 5 of the best types of oolong tea to drink for losing weight:
1. Da Hong Pao
Da Hong Pao is an oxidized Wuyi oolong tea from the Fujian province of China. It has a rich floral aroma. Da Hong Pao contains high levels of antioxidants and polyphenols that may stimulate the breakdown of fat cells and ramp up the metabolism.
2. Tieguanyin
Tieguanyin is a popular oolong tea from Anxi in the Fujian province of China. It has a light, complex flavor with fruity orchid notes. Tieguanyin is high in polyphenols that may boost fat metabolism.
3. Huangjin Gui
Huangjin gui is a fragrant, honey-sweet oolong tea from Anxi, China. It is roasted and has a rich, warming taste. Huangjin gui oolong is high in antioxidants that may increase fat burning and inhibit the formation of new fat cells.
4. Ti Kuan Yin
Ti Kuan Yin is a light, floral oolong tea from Anxi, China. It has a fresh taste with notes of orchid and honey. Drinking Ti Kuan Yin oolong tea may give your metabolism a boost and help your body burn more fat.
5. Dan Cong
Dan Cong is a type of oolong tea with a fragrant, almost fruity taste. It comes from the Phoenix Mountain region of Guangdong, China. Dan Cong oolong contains polyphenols and antioxidants linked to increased calorie burning.
How to Prepare Oolong Tea
Follow these simple steps for brewing perfect oolong tea to reap the weight loss benefits:
- Use whole oolong tea leaves, not bags.
- Rinse the tea leaves briefly with hot water first.
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of leaves to an infuser or teapot per 6 oz. of water.
- Pour fresh mineral water just under boiling, around 180°F, over the leaves.
- Let the tea steep for 2-3 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the steeping time if needed.
- Drink the tea hot or add ice to enjoy it cold.
For the strongest tea, do not over steep oolong as this can make it bitter. Steep no more than 5 minutes.
How Much Oolong Tea to Drink for Weight Loss
Studies showing weight loss benefits provided 3-4 cups per day of oolong tea. To reap the fat burning rewards, aim to drink:
- 1 cup with breakfast
- 1 cup mid-morning
- 1 cup with lunch
- 1 cup mid-afternoon
Drinking oolong tea with meals may help boost fat metabolism after eating. Drinking oolong between meals maintains fat burning throughout the day.
Potential Side Effects
Oolong tea contains caffeine, so excessive intake may cause side effects like:
- Jitters, anxiety
- Upset stomach
- Trouble sleeping
- Irregular heartbeat
Limit oolong tea to 8 oz., 4 times per day maximum to avoid excess caffeine intake. Those sensitive to caffeine should start with a half cup per day.
Other Tips for Losing Weight with Oolong Tea
To maximize the weight loss effects of oolong tea, combine it with these lifestyle habits:
- Follow a reduced calorie diet focusing on lean proteins, whole grains, vegetables and healthy fats.
- Stay active with regular exercise 3-5 days per week.
- Drink at least 64 oz. of water daily.
- Limit sugary foods, processed carbs and saturated fats.
- Manage stress through meditation, yoga, walking, etc.
- Get 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
Oolong tea enhances weight loss when paired with proper nutrition, activity and lifestyle habits. But the tea alone will not make you lose weight if the rest of your diet and routine remains unhealthy.
The Bottom Line
Enjoying delicious oolong tea on a regular basis may give your metabolism a boost and help you shed stubborn pounds more effectively. Opt for whole leaf oolong tea varieties like Da Hong Pao, Tieguanyin, Huangjin gui, Ti Kuan Yin or Dan Cong to maximize the fat-burning and weight loss benefits.
When combined with a healthy lifestyle, oolong tea can be an easy, natural way to give your weight loss efforts a helpful nudge while delighting your taste buds at the same time.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.
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