Does Wulong Tea Really Help Lose Weight?

Wulong or oolong tea is derived from the camellia sinensis plant. Wulong tea is a semi-fermented tea. The act of fermentation decreases antioxidant content and increases caffeine content. Caffeine and antioxidants are the two primary properties of Wulong credited with weight loss effects. Reduction of weight is achieved by sustained decreases in energy intake or increases in the energy expended. According to Linus Pauling Institute, Wulong tea has stimulated energy expenditure among individuals, aiding in weight loss benefits.

Caffeine

Caffeine increases energy expenditure for several hours after consumption depending upon level of intake. By consuming approximately 125 mg of caffeine per day, you can increase your energy expenditure up to 16 percent, as reported by a study published in the "American Journal of Clinical Nutrition." According to Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, Wulong tea contains approximately 9 to 50 mg of caffeine per every 8-oz serving. A 12 percent increased-rate of fat oxidation was noted over a 24-hour period when tea was consumed, according to a 2001 study published in the "Journal of Nutrition."

Polyphenols

Wulong tea contains antioxidant ployphenols, known as catechins. Catechins suppress the appetite and prevent lipids from blocking the arteries. Additionally, catechins help burn excess fat, aiding in weight loss. According to a study published in the "Japan Society of Clinical Nutrition," women drinking four cups of Wulong tea per day for six weeks and lost over one kilogram of weight. This data suggests that Wulong tea may increase energy expenditure by at least 10 percent. In accordance with these findings, Wulong tea exhibited 10 percent higher energy expenditure rates, while green tea produced 4 percent higher energy expenditure rate, as reported in a 2003 study by the "Journal of Medical Investigation." This finding is particularly notable since the Wulong tea consumed contained less caffeine and more polyphenols than the green tea consumed in this study. Thus, increased energy expenditure may result primarily from polyphenols.

Other Benefits

In addition to weight loss, Wulong tea has a wide array of other benefits. Poor nutritive consumption, extreme exercise or hereditary factors may contribute to osteoporosis. Wulong tea may enhance bone mineral density, counteracting osteoporosis. Fluoride in Wulong tea inhibits the growth of the bacteria that produces cavities. Fewer dental caries have been identified among individuals who drink Wulong tea regularly. According to Linus Pauling Institute at Oregon State University, every 8-oz. cup of tea consumed per day reduces the risk of kidney stones up to 8 percent among women and 14 percent among men.

Warnings

While Wulong tea is generally considered to be safe, there have been two reports of caffeine toxicity from excessive consumption of Wulong tea. Several drugs, like Tagament and Lamisil, may increase adverse effects of caffeine, increasing the chance for toxicity. Flavanoids in Wulong tea can prevent the absorption of iron consumed, potentially leading to anemia. Pregnant women are often advised to limit their caffeine consumption due to an increased risk of low birth weight and miscarriage.