Oolong tea is less commonly known than its counterparts, green and black tea, but in fact comes from the same leaf. Oolong tea is processed longer than green tea, but for less time than black tea, and is fermented in a similar fashion to black tea. Many health benefits come from drinking any of these teas, but oolong tea has several benefits in particular that have been studied. These include its role in weight loss, reducing blood sugar levels in those with type 2 diabetes and increasing immune function.
Weight Loss
Oolong tea is perhaps best known for its ability to promote weight loss. In the book, The Natural Fat-Loss Pharmacy, authors Harry Preuss and Bill Gottlieb reference a study conducted by the USDA Human Nutrition Research Center and the Department of Nutrition at the University of Tokushima in Japan about the effects of oolong tea on the weight of 12 men. They determined that the men drinking full-strength oolong tea burned 67% more calories a day than the men drinking only water. This led the researchers to note that including oolong tea in their diet may help people maintain lower levels of body fat.
May Help Diabetics
Oolong tea may also help those with type 2 diabetes. In a study conducted in Taiwan, oolong tea was found to decrease plasma glucose levels in subjects with type 2 diabetes who were taking oral antihyperglycemic drugs. They also found that drinking oolong tea along with consuming these drugs was more effective in lowering plasma glucose than taking the drugs alone.
When treating diabetes, it is important to consult a health care professional before including any new dietary supplement.
Boosts the Immune System
Oolong tea may also help boost the immune system. In the book, Origins of Chinese Tea and Wine, authors Fu Chunjiang and Qiu Yao Hong note that oolong tea "increases resistance to infection," and also can reduce the signs of aging that come from diminished immune function.
References
- The Natural Fat-Loss Pharmacy; Harry Preuss; 2007
- Passion for Tea: Its History, Its Future, Its Health Benefits; Beverly Rorem; 2008
- Origins of Chinese Tea and Wine; Fu Chunjiang; 2005
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