Oolong tea is a tea that is processed through the fermentation process. This fermentation process gives a dark color, a slightly bitter taste, and a distinctive aroma to oolong tea. In addition to its unique aroma, oolong tea also has several health benefits.
All types of tea, including oolong tea, contain a number of nutrients. In oolong tea, it contains caffeine, fluoride, manganese, potassium, sodium, magnesium, and niacin. Oolong tea also contains theanine amino acids and antioxidants which is quite high.
Various Benefits of Oolong Tea You Need to Know
Oolong tea is one type of tea that is quite popular and widely consumed in Asia. Tea originating from China is thought to save several benefits, including:
1. Reducing cholesterol levels
Several studies have found that the antioxidant content in oolong tea can help reduce and maintain cholesterol levels in the body. This effect is good for preventing cardiovascular disease, such as coronary heart disease and stroke.
2. Prevent high blood pressure
Drinking about 2-3 cups of oolong tea every day is believed to reduce the risk of high blood pressure by about 46%. However, this effect still needs to be investigated because oolong tea contains caffeine which is quite high. If consumed in excessive amounts, it is feared that oolong tea can actually increase blood pressure.
3. Reducing the risk of diabetes
The antioxidant polyphenols in oolong tea are believed to help maintain blood sugar levels and improve insulin performance, thereby reducing the risk of type 2 diabetes. But the benefits of oolong tea as part of preventing diabetes in general still need further research.
4. Strengthen bones and teeth
A study shows that people who regularly consume oolong tea have better bone density compared to those who don't. Oolong tea is also thought to be good for dental health because it can strengthen tooth enamel and reduce plaque formation.
5. Increase concentration and performance
Compared to other types of tea, such as green tea and black tea, oolong tea contains the highest levels of caffeine. The caffeine found in oolong tea can increase your focus and concentration power. Oolong tea can also be an energy drink to improve your performance when you are active throughout the day.
6. Maintain brain function and prevent Alzheimer's disease
One of several studies shows that drinking oolong tea regularly can maintain and maintain brain function, and help prevent senile dementia and Alzheimer's disease. This is all thanks to the theanine and antioxidants in oolong tea.
7. Lose weight
Consumption of oolong tea is believed to increase the body's metabolism associated with weight loss. The effect is thought to be due to the caffeine and polyphenol content in oolong tea.
8. Protect and fight cancer
Research studies in the laboratory found that the high antioxidant content in oolong tea was seen to be able to prevent the growth of cancer cells that could potentially cause cancer.
However, keep in mind that the various benefits above are still based on the results of small-scale studies and it is not yet known how far the benefits of oolong tea in preventing certain diseases
Side Effects of Oolong Tea
Although it is believed to have a myriad of benefits, you also need to limit your intake of oolong tea. Don't consume more than five cups of oolong tea a day. If taken excessively, this tea can cause side effects such as headaches, dizziness, faster heart rate, insomnia, nervousness, to digestive disorders, such as diarrhea, vomiting, and flatulence.
Pregnant women are not recommended to drink oolong tea more than two cups a day. This amount contains about 200 mg of caffeine. Too much caffeine during pregnancy can cause the baby to be born prematurely and endanger the health of the fetus. Too much caffeine during lactation can also cause intestinal irritation in infants.
If consumed in reasonable amounts, any type of tea, including oolong tea, is a good drink for health. But if you have certain medical conditions, it is advisable to consult a doctor first before consuming oolong tea.
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