Wu yi tea is a variety of oolong tea which is also known as wu long. Like other green and black teas, wu yi tea is rich in polyphenols and carries many health benefits. In recent years, wu yi tea has been touted as a weight-loss aid and sold as the "Wu-Yi Diet." However, while the tea does have legitimate slimming properties, they are very similar to those of any other polyphenol-rich tea and should not be relied upon as a sole means for weight loss.
Origin
Wu yi tea is sourced from Mount Wuyi in the Fujian Province in China. The tea has been produced and consumed in China for centuries, and it was only recently that Chinese and Japanese researchers linked wu yi tea consumption to weight loss and sparked the wu yi diet trend.
Calories
Like other green and black teas, wu yi tea contains no calories when simply brewed with hot water. Consumers may sweeten the tea with sugar or honey, adding a few calories and carbohydrates; however, one of the best ways to capitalize on tea's slimming properties is to drink it without sweeteners and in place of sugary or high-calorie beverages.
Nutrients
Wu yi tea differs from green tea in processing only. Both teas originate from the same type of plant, but where green tea leaves are heated and rolled to halt oxidation and alter the cell structure of the plant, wu yi tea is the product of leaves that are allowed to oxidize and kept intact. This process retains the highest level of polyphenols, antioxidant compounds that may stimulate fat burning and stoke metabolism, although more clinical trials are needed for definitive results and suggestions. The tea also contains about 30 mg of caffeine per serving, slightly more than green tea and a little less than half the amount in a 5-oz. cup of coffee.
Benefits
Because polyphenols are a natural component of all green, black and oolong teas, they may provide consumers with a safe, effective, affordable and organic fat-burning aid. Wu yi tea is a nutritional beverage which may have health benefits beyond weight loss -- polyphenols are also antioxidants, compounds that combat free radicals in the body and may help prevent cancer. However, a January 2005 article in The American Journal of Clinical nutrition reports, "Much of the evidence on the prevention of diseases by polyphenols is derived from in vitro or animal experiments." Therefore, more clinical trials are required before definitive recommendations can be made.
Warning
Wu yi tea is a safe and natural beverage; however, any caffeinated green tea can have adverse effects upon individuals taking specific medications or those with conditions including hyperthyroidism, heart problems, stomach ulcers and psychological disorders. Consult your physician before using wu yi tea or any other herbal supplement.
Member Comments