Which tea is recommended for brain and heart health, and weight loss?

(Patria) - Oolong tea is one of the most popular drinks in Asian countries, especially in China.

It is a semi-fermented tea whose rich history, characteristic processing method and unique flavors make it popular among tea lovers worldwide.

Like green and black tea, oolong is made from the leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant. It is produced by plucking the leaves of the tea plant and leaving them to dry in the sun.

The leaves are then crushed and left to oxidize before the tea is fully dried.

Oolong is partially oxidized, so it falls somewhere between black tea, which is fully oxidized, and green tea, which undergoes minimal oxidation.

Oolong tea that has undergone less oxidation will generally have a lighter, less intense flavor, while tea that has undergone more oxidation will have a fuller and richer taste.

In addition to its exceptional flavor, it is also known for its potential health benefits. Some of the potential effects include improved digestion, metabolic support, and a reduced risk of heart disease.

It is also believed that oolong tea contains antioxidants that help fight free radicals in the body, reports Ljepota i zdravlje.

The good thing is that it can be purchased online and in specialized stores, but it may be a bit harder to find compared to more popular teas like green tea and others.

Oolong tea contains some trace minerals, such as magnesium and potassium, but not enough to be considered a good source of any nutrient. Nevertheless, there are numerous benefits to drinking this tea.

Research shows that drinking tea can help reduce inflammation of blood vessels, relax smooth muscle contractions, and promote healthy blood vessel function, all of which can help lower blood pressure levels.

A 2023 study published in BMC Public Health, which included 76,673 Chinese adults, found that tea consumption, including oolong tea consumption, was associated with a 10 percent reduced risk of high blood pressure.

Protects heart health

Regularly drinking oolong tea can be an effective way to improve heart health and reduce the risk of heart disease.

Studies also show that tea consumption in general is associated with a lower risk of heart disease and death from heart disease.

This protective effect is attributed to the protective compounds found in tea, which help improve blood vessel function, lower blood pressure, and protect against inflammation and oxidative damage, reports mbg.com.

Healthy body weight

Some of the compounds found in oolong tea can improve fat oxidation and regulate lipid metabolism, all of which can help promote fat loss.

Brain health

Studies show that regular tea consumption, including oolong tea, is associated with several benefits for brain health, including a lower risk of depression.

A 2021 study published in BMC Geriatrics, which included 13,115 older adults, found that intake of green tea, fermented teas like oolong tea, and flower tea was significantly associated with a lower prevalence of depressive symptoms.

In addition to all these benefits, it also works against constipation, improves concentration and mental functions, and relaxes.