Best Oolong Tea for Weight Loss

Oolong tea has gained widespread attention for its proven ability to support weight loss. Studies show that oolong tea stimulates fat burning and increases the number of calories your body burns by up to 3.4%. 

Read on to discover how oolong tea promotes weight loss, its additional health benefits, and the best oolong teas to support your weight loss journey.

What is Oolong Tea?

Oolong tea is a traditional Chinese tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant. Oolong tea is partially oxidized, falling between black and green tea. It is well-known for its rich content of antioxidants and nutrients, including polyphenols, caffeine, and vitamins, which promote weight loss, enhance fat oxidation, regulate blood sugar, and improve metabolism. Additionally, it aids in stress reduction and digestion, making it a valuable contributor to weight loss. To maximize benefits, using fasting apps like Fastic in your routine can help optimize both your oolong tea consumption habits and weight loss efforts for better outcomes.

What Makes Oolong Tea Effective for Weight Loss? 

Oolong tea isn't a magical potion for overnight weight loss. Its effectiveness lies in its ability to support the body’s natural fat-burning processes, helping to boost metabolism and enhance fat oxidation over time.

Oolong tea promotes weight loss through the following mechanisms:

1. Encouraging fat burning 

Oolong tea can help release fat stored in cells. A study found that caffeine, a key component of oolong tea, stimulates lipolysis—the process by which fat cells release their stored fat. This effect occurs when noradrenaline activates the breakdown of fat. It’s important to note that caffeine did not increase the activity of hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL), an enzyme typically involved in fat breaking. Instead, it acted directly on the lipid droplets in fat cells, accelerating fat breakdown. This mechanism contributes to oolong tea’s ability to burn fat more effectively.

2. Preventing fat absorption

Oolong can promote the breakdown and utilization of fats for energy. A recent study revealed that catechins, a type of polyphenol in oolong tea, and its extracts may block fat absorption by inhibiting pancreatic lipase—an enzyme that helps break down fats in the digestive system. By reducing the activity of this enzyme, catechins can limit the amount of dietary fat absorbed, thereby supporting fat oxidation and preventing fat storage.

3. Improving heart health

Another benefit of catechins is that they activate enzymes that break down triglycerides. Triglycerides contribute to the thickening of the artery walls, which increases the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and other heart diseases. Moreover, another study reported significant correlations between tea consumption, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels, which were lower among individuals consuming one or more cups of tea daily. Improved heart health supports weight management by enhancing circulation and increasing energy levels, making physical activity easier and safer.

4. Regulating blood sugar levels

Theaflavin and flavonoids, two other polyphenols in oolong tea, help lower blood sugar levels and reduce insulin resistance. Theaflavin has been shown to reduce glucose absorption in the intestines, while various flavonoids help blood sugar management by improving insulin response and reducing inflammation. These mechanisms help prevent insulin spikes that can lead to fat storage, promoting a stable metabolism and curbing hunger.

Best Oolong Teas for Weight Loss

The quality of your oolong tea plays a crucial role in its effectiveness for weight loss. Loose-leaf tea generally offers superior quality, and a richer taste and aroma, so prioritize natural teas over commercial varieties. Quick note: the longer the leaves are oxidized, the stronger and darker the tea’s flavor becomes.

Here are the best oolong teas for weight loss:

1. Tie Guan Yin

There are many types of oolong tea, with Anxi and Muzha being two well-known varieties from different production regions. Anxi tea has a yellow-green or slightly brownish-green hue after oxidation and roasting. Due to longer roasting, Muzha tea has darker leaves and a richer, more robust roasted flavor.

2. Fenghuang Dancong

This tea features long, twisted leaves, ranging from greenish-brown to dark brown, reflecting its medium-to-high oxidation. It is renowned for its diverse range of fragrances, which include intense floral notes and fruity aromas. Fenghuang dancong tea is characterized by its mellow taste and strong aftertaste.

3. Da Hong Pao

Due to their high oxidation and roasting, Da Hong Pao tea leaves are dark brown. Once brewed, the tea reveals a deep amber or golden-red color, with the infused leaves displaying a mix of green and reddish hues. It offers a pleasant orchid fragrance and delivers a bold, smooth, and long-lasting flavor.

4. Minnan Shuixian

Minnan shuixian tea is characterized by its long and twisted shape. Its color varies from green to greenish-brown, and it has an orchid fragrance, which is naturally high and long-lasting. It has a sweet, mellow, yet refreshing taste.

5. Minbei Shuixian

Minbei Shuixian tea also features dark green leaves with white or silver speckles near the stem. When brewed, the tea produces a golden-yellow or amber color. This tea offers a lasting sweetness, and a smooth, floral flavor. Its leaves are thick and soft.

What Do Studies Say About Oolong Tea for Weight Loss?

Drinking oolong tea has been shown to aid in weight loss through several mechanisms, all supported by scientific evidence. One notable study involving 102 overweight and obese individuals had participants consume 8 grams of oolong tea daily for six weeks. 

Key results:

• 70% of severely obese participants lost over 1 kg, with 22% losing more than 3 kg.

• 64% of obese participants and 66% of overweight participants experienced weight loss exceeding 1 kg.

Another study revealed that drinking oolong tea twice daily for 14 days enhanced fat burning by 20%, indicating it may support weight loss over time due to fat oxidation. Further research on oolong tea’s effects is needed, but current findings suggest it could be a promising aid for weight loss.

Optimal Time and Quantity for Drinking Oolong Tea 

While oolong tea can offer numerous benefits and is considered an extremely healthy beverage, the timing and amount you consume can impact its effectiveness.

When Should You Drink Oolong Tea?

The best time to drink oolong tea is in the morning to help kickstart your metabolism. You can also drink it before or after meals to aid digestion. It is recommended not to drink oolong tea before bed or late in the evening as it may disrupt sleeping patterns and sleep quality due to its caffeine content. 

How Much Oolong Tea Can You Drink?

The FDA considers a daily intake of 400 mg of caffeine as safe. For reference, one cup of oolong tea contains about 38 milligrams per serving. That means you can drink up to 10 cups of oolong tea daily without exceeding the recommended limit. Track your oolong tea intake by downloading the Fastic app. This handy fasting app helps you monitor your daily beverage consumption, sends timely reminders, and offers personalized tips for cultivating healthy drinking habits. 

All oolong teas provide powerful weight loss benefits by supporting the body’s natural fat-burning processes. The best oolong tea for weight loss ultimately depends on your personal preferences. However, while studies have shown that oolong tea can aid in weight loss, combining it with a weight loss strategy, such as intermittent fasting, can yield more significant results.

Disclaimer: It is advised to speak with a health professional before beginning intermittent fasting or a diet program. There may be side effects for people with certain medical conditions.