There has been plenty of speculation in the media over Oolong tea and its perceived powers to affect weight loss. So are the rumors true? Well yes and no. Oolong tea can contribute to weight loss. In places like China and Japan, Oolong tea has had this reputation for thousands of years. However, you won’t magically drop five pounds in a week like some marketers are claiming. Before you decide to start drinking Oolong tea, it’s important to separate the fact from the fiction.
How Oolong Tea Aids Weight Loss
Research has shown that Oolong tea increases your metabolism. This is primarily because, like many popular beverages, Oolong tea contains caffeine. Oolong tea comes from the same plant as black tea and green tea; the main difference is in the processing. In a Chinese study, Oolong tea was shown to increase metabolism by up to 3%. It also increased fat metabolism by 12% more than other caffeinated drinks.
Oolong tea not only increases your metabolism, but it will increase the rate at which your body burns fat, by an extra 12% compared to what it would be if you were drinking water. So is this enough to lose weight? Well, if you combine it with a program of exercise and a calorie restricted diet then you are going to notice the impact. If you are sitting down all day and eating cheeseburgers then the difference is probably just going to be absorbed.
How To Use Oolong Tea To Lose Weight
If you are already on a weight loss plan, then Oolong tea makes a great accompaniment. Not only does it taste great, but its fat burning qualities will not go unnoticed. The best time to drink Oolong tea is about 30 minutes before exercise to give your metabolism an extra boost. If you have eaten a heavy meal, then Oolong tea afterwards is a great palate cleanser and will also increase the rate at which your body will burn the fat content consumed.
