The benefits from Oolong Tea

    
     

Oolong Tea

Is Tea and especially Oolong Tea good for your health? Many research institutions have done minor or major studies on drinking tea and the results are always that "Tea is indeed GOOD for your health". The information below tells you more.

Drinking Oolong tea is of another dimension in experiencing tea pleasure and health. Oolong tea, especially when prepared in the Gong Fu way, has benefits over other tea's.

 

The Body's Defenses

Tea drinking may help keep the doctor away. A new study finds that tea boosts the body's defences against infections and contains a substance that might be turned into a drug to protect against disease, US researchers say. Coffee does not have the same effect.

 

A component in tea was found in laboratory experiments to prime the immune system to attack invading bacteria, viruses and fungi, according to a study in the Proceedings of the US National Academy of Sciences released recently. The second experiment, using human volunteers, showed that immune system blood cells from tea drinkers responded five times faster to germs than did the blood cells of coffee drinkers.

"We worked out the molecular aspects of this tea component in the test tube and then tested it on a small number of people to see if it actually worked in human beings," said Dr Jack, a researcher at Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston and Harvard Medical School. The results, he said, gave clear proof that five cups of tea a day sharpened the body's disease defences. 

 

Different tea’s

Green tea is often touted as a wonder drink providing all sorts of health benefits. Studies have indicated that green tea may have cancer-preventative properties, as well as being rich in compounds which could lower blood pressure, boost the immune system and reduce hypertension. Although green tea gets the spotlight, these same health benefits and many more can be attributed to especially oolong tea.

 

The real difference between green, oolong, and black tea is where the plants grow, the way they grow and the way the leaves are processed after harvesting. And right there Oolong tea has many benefits above the other tea's. All tea come from the same plant - Camelia sinensis. And this plant has naturally occurring antioxidants that are beneficial to human health.

 

Antioxidants are also present in other types of food such as nuts, fruits, vegetables, and wines. Anti-oxidants are believed to prevent disease by combating free radicals - substances in the body linked to cancer, Parkinson's disease, senile and drug-induced deafness, schizophrenia, and Alzheimer's. There are several components in tea that act as antioxidants including catechins, flavanoids, and polyphenols.

 

Health stimulating properties

Oolong tea is produced by allowing the tea leaves to oxidize for a very short time after picking. Oxidation is the process which makes the leaves turn dark on exposure to oxygen. Oolong has fresh leaves that are slightly oxidized; black tea is fully oxidized; and green tea is un-oxidized.

 

Fresh tea leaves are high in catechins. Processing the tea reduces these levels, so the more the tea is oxidized the lower the catechin levels. Catechins are the media darling of green tea promoters and usually receive the most coverage when discussing the health benefits of tea. There is one point, however, which is often overlooked: As the levels of catechins decrease during oxidation, the levels of theaflavins and thearubigins increase.

 

These two substances are found in higher concentrations in oolong and black tea than in green tea and may have anti-allergy, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. A 2001 Chinese study indicated that the antioxidant properties of green tea and black tea are equal. So it appears that oxidation does not eliminate the health properties of tea, but simply reduces one type of antioxidant while increasing other health-promoting compounds.

 

So, is Oolong Good for You?

It is safe to say that all tea is good for you, but since we are particularly interested in oolong, let's see what the medical literature has to say and why it is said that oolong tea also has other benefits than just those that green and balck tea have.

 

Diabetes - Oolong tea may be an effective adjunct to oral hypoglycemic agents in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
 

Eczema - Japanese researchers reported that patients with a form of eczema improved after drinking a litre of oolong tea daily.
 

Allergies - Two catechin derivatives (C-1 and C-2) with potent antiallergic activity were isolated from Taiwanese oolong tea.
 

Bacterial infections - Oolong tea polyphenols strongly inhibited the enzyme activities of some types of streptococci.
 

Cavities - Oolong tea polyphenolic compounds could be useful for controlling dental caries.
 

Obesity - Consumption of oolong tea stimulates both EE and fat oxidation in people.
 

Cancer - Oolong tea extract has a potential chemo preventive action against hepatocarcinogenesis.

 

Great stuff! Drinking oolong tea will make you healthier, live longer, be more beautiful and have great teeth!

 

And there is more to add to the benefits from Oolong tea..

 

Oolong tea from Taiwan, in particular the so called High Mountain Tea's, is grown on very rich soil with many other health benefits. Besides that the tea plant grows on the higher and colder elevation between 800 m and 2800 m on the mountain sides, almost constantly surrounded by the fog from the ocean and during daytime bathing in sunlight. Oolong tea from Taiwan is so much different than any other tea. Its benefits are almost immediately experienced within just days.

 

The Bottom Line

Drink oolong tea for your health, but don't lose sight of this simple fact: people have been drinking tea for thousands of years because it is a great tasting beverage. Sit back, relax, and savour the sensations as you sip this wonderful drink. It's good for the soul, and what's good for the soul is certainly good for the body.

 

References:

J. Agric. Food Chem., 47 (5), 1906 -1910, 1999. 10.1021/jf981114l S0021-8561(98)01114-5

Archives of Dermatology, January 2001

Diabetes Care 26:1714-1718, 2003

Appl Environ Microbiol. 1993 April; 59(4): 968–973.

The American Society for Nutritional Sciences J. Nutr. 131:2848-2852, November 2001

Caries Res. 1993;27(2):124-9.

Jpn J Cancer Res. 1996 Oct;87(10):1034-8.

Journal of Nutrition. 2001;131:2248-2251.

 

Oolong Tea and Weight Loss

Obesity is a serious problem in our modern world and we are always looking for an "easy fix" to help us shed extra pounds. One of the latest weight loss trends is Oolong tea. Will drinking Oolong tea really help lose weight?

 

Oolong tea is not a new product - it has a long history going back hundreds of years. Oolong tea originates is produced in mainland China and in Taiwan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and India. Due to its geographical position and mountainous terrain, Taiwan produces most of the finest Oolong tea's in the world.

According to the American Obesity Association, obesity "is the second leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. Approximately 127 million adults in the U.S. are overweight, 60 million obese, and 9 million severely obese."

These numbers continue to rise every year. The health risks associated with obesity include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, gallbladder disease, hypertension, liver disease, and stroke. In all, there are more than 30 medical conditions associated with obesity.

 

Obesity is not just an American problem. The World Health Organization (WHO) says that more than 1.2 billion people around the world are classified as overweight.

 

Faced with these startling facts, it's no wonder that governments and individuals are focusing their attention on weight loss. Products designed to help us lose weight "effortlessly" are a big seller, and new weight loss methods are presented with alarming frequency.

 

So where does Oolong tea fit in? Is it a fad or is there some basis for the claim that Oolong tea will help lose weight?

Scientific studies have established that tea is high in health-promoting polyphenols that may protect us against cancer and other diseases. Oolong tea is particularly high in "polymerized polyphenols" which according to a 2003 Japanese study helps to increase energy expenditure. This study found that energy expenditure increased by 10% for a period of 2 hours after drinking Oolong tea. This was significantly higher than the energy expenditure observed after drinking green tea. Another Japanese study found that Oolong tea can suppress lipid metabolism which has the effect of suppressing fatty accumulation and body weight increases. The study concludes that long-term consumption of Oolong tea is beneficial for the suppression of diet induced obesity.

 

Oolong tea contains a little caffeine. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system and causes fat to be released into the blood stream for use as fuel.

1. Thermo genesis is the process of fat being used for energy, and an increase in body temperature is the result of this process (heat is the waste product of fat being converted into glucose). In this way oolong tea provides energy, sheds excess water, and helps to burn bodyfat.

2. For this reason, it is a common ingredient in over-the-counter nutritional fat-loss supplements.

 

More benefits

Health-promoting compounds such as polyphenols and catechins are present in all types of tea, but hand picked Oolong tea is the best source because the pickers are selecting the best leaves from the tea plant. Machine harvesting is indiscriminate - older leaves and twigs are harvested along with the newer leaves.

 

All the tea on www.teahouseoolong.eu is hand-picked and processed..

 

Oolong tea is not a miracle cure for weight problems. Weight loss involves following a sensible, healthy diet, and a change in lifestyle to include an adequate amount of exercise. Oolong tea may give you the extra boost to help in your weight loss plans, but it must be used as part of an overall strategy to improve your living habits.

 

Positive effects of ingredients found in Oolong tea

Catechin (Tannin)

Catechin, also called Tannin, is a bioflavonoid that has both antiviral and antioxidant qualities. It helps to prevent cancer by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. Catechin also has many positive cholesterol-lowering effects. It helps to clear blocked veins and arteries, allowing your blood to flow more smoothly. Some studies show that Catechin may help prevent strokes, heart attacks, blood clots and even heart disease. Amazingly, Catechin also protects the entire body from oxidative damage due to free radicals and other toxins in our environment. Tea leaves create Catechin to protect themselves from ultraviolet rays. Catechin is extracted best in water with a temperature of over 167 - 176F (75 - 80C).

 

The following is a list of the beneficial effects of Catechin:

 

Removing free radicals (activated oxygen)
Free radicals (activated oxygen) are powerful oxidizing agents in the body which are known to cause a wide variety of diseases, aging, and wrinkles. Free radicals increase by overexposure to ultraviolet rays, aging, smoking, and too much drinking. If you want to remove free radicals that have been created in your body, you may do this by consuming foods that have strong antioxidant properties. Catechin and Vitamin C are well known antioxidants. This tea contains both Catechin and Vitamin C. It is beneficial to drink to remove these harmful free radicals.

 

Reducing cholesterol
Too much cholesterol is known to cause arteriosclerosis, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and cerebral infarction (stroke). But not all cholesterol is bad or unhealthy. LDL cholesterol is bad and HDL cholesterol is good. Too much LDL cholesterol can cause cells in the body to oxidize and cause arteriosclerosis. Catechin, which is found in Oolong tea, blocks the formation of bad LDL cholesterol and therefore is helpful in preventing arteriosclerosis. Not only does the Catechin prevent bad LDL cholesterol from forming, but it increases good HDL cholesterol levels in the body as well.

 

Reducing fat
Many studies have shown that ingesting Catechin promotes healthy energy consumption in the body of human beings and animals - and reduces fat in the body and digestive system. It has also been reported that Catechin absorbed into the blood stream reaches cells in the liver and works to promote fat metabolism.

 

Antibacterial and sterilizing
Catechin has strong antibacterial and sterilizing effects on germs and bacteria. It has even been found to have the effect of sterilizing germs (NRSA) that cause infections in hospitals - so Catechin is beneficial to ward off infection and sickness in this way as well.

 

Antiviral
Studies have shown that Catechin can also prevent viral infections. Gargling with tea has been shown to prevent influenza and the common cold and also helps to relieve symptoms of influenza and the common cold such as sore throat, cough, and nasal congestion.

 

Moderating allergies
Catechin has an effect of moderating allergies (including airborne pollen/mold allergies and dermatitis). It is recognized that Catechin moderates the symptoms of allergies including itching and sneezing.

 

Oral care
Catechin is an effective deodorant and general sterilizing agent. A cup of tea after a meal prevents the growth of germs, which cause periodontal disease and halitosis (bad breath).

 

Preventing cavities
Catechin is effective in preventing dental cavities. Catechin prevents existing cavities from becoming larger by balancing the enzymes found in the cavity area. By reducing harmful acids in the mouth which can destroy the tooth enamel, Catechin also works to protect the enamel and keep your teeth healthy and strong.

 

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, Catechin, and Vitamin E work together to enhance immune function. These three nutrients also help to make your skin more beautiful by reducing blemishes, wrinkles and sun damage. Vitamin C found in tea is water-soluble, and the heat used in brewing tea does not reduce its potency.

 

Caffeine

The mild caffeine has been found to increase cognitive performance, alertness, and energy. It can also help with weight loss through its stimulating and mild diuretic effects. Oolong tea can enhance focus because of its mild caffeine content. Caffeine helps to stimulate the frontal cortex of the brain and this results in intense focus, improved memory function, and enhanced thinking abilities. Persons who supplement with oolong tea report an increased desire to train.

 

Bioflavonoids

The bioflavonoids help to keep your teeth and gums healthy. You can gargle with the tea after brushing your teeth to kill germs and prevent bad breath.

 

Minerals

This tea is rich in minerals, including manganese, potassium and calcium, which help to alkalinize the blood, regulate the heartbeat, and build strong teeth and bones.

 

Blood presure 

By causing fat to be burned for fuel, oolong tea can lead to long-term reductions in blood pressure. If used appropriately, oolong tea can help prevent hypertension.

Oolong tea may also improve glucose utilization and insulin regulation. Consequently, oolong tea can be an effective addition to a type-2 diabetes treatment program. Oolong tea is a rich source of tanic acid. Tanic acid improves oral health and has been shown to speed recovery and healing after oral surgery. Although the mechanisms of action are not fully understood, oolong tea has been shown to prevent the build-up of plaque on teeth.

 

Who needs it and what are some symptoms of deficiency?

Everyone can benefit from supplementing with Oolong tea. This tea supplies energy to working muscles, enhances focus and mental function, cleanses the body from harmful toxins, and promotes oral health.

Oolong tea can be of benefit to all people, regardless of age and activity level.

No symptoms of deficiency exist.

 

References

1. Komatsu T, Nakamori M, Komatsu K, Hosoda K, Okamura M, Toyama K, Ishikura Y, Sakai T, Kunii D, Yamamoto S. Oolong tea increases energy metabolism in Japanese females. J Med Invest. 2003 Aug;50(3-4):170-5.

2. Rumpler W, Seale J, Clevidence B, Judd J, Wiley E, Yamamoto S, Komatsu T, Sawaki T, Ishikura Y, Hosoda K. Oolong tea increases metabolic rate and fat oxidation in men. J Nutr. 2001 Nov;131(11):2848-52.

3. Hosoda K, Wang MF, Liao ML, Chuang CK, Iha M, Clevidence B, Yamamoto S. Antihyperglycemic effect of oolong tea in type 2 diabetes. Diabetes Care. 2003 Jun;26(6):1714-8.

4. Ooshima T, Minami T, Aono W, Tamura Y, Hamada S. Reduction of dental plaque deposition in humans by oolong tea extract. Caries Res. 1994;28(3):146-9.

 

Theanine  (from Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia)

Theanine is an amino acid (that builds Proteïn) commonly found in tea (infusions of Camellia sinensis). Theanine is related to glutamine, and can cross the blood-brain barrier. Because it can enter the brain, theanine has psychoactive properties.

Theanine has been shown to reduce mental and physical stress, may produce feelings of relaxation and improves cognition and mood when taken in combination with a mild form of caffeine.

 

Theanine is speculated to produce these effects by increasing the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) production. Theanine increases brain serotonin, dopamine, GABA levels and has micromolar affinities for AMPA, Kainate and NMDA receptors. It has also been found that injecting spontaneously hypertensive mice with theanine significantly lowered levels of 5-hydroxyindoles in the brain. Researchers also speculate that it may inhibit glutamic acid excitotoxicity. Theanine also promotes alpha wave production in the brain.

Studies on test rats have shown that even repeated, extremely high doses of theanine cause little to no harmful psychological or physical effects. Theanine showed neuroprotective effect in a rat study.

 

L-theanine may help the body's immune system response when fighting infection by boosting the disease-fighting capacity of gamma delta T cells. The study, published in 2003 by the Brigham and Women's Hospital, included a four-week trial with 11 coffee drinkers and 10 tea drinkers, who consumed 600 milliliters of coffee or black tea daily. Blood sample analysis found that the production of anti-bacterial proteins was up to five times higher in the tea-drinkers, an indicator of a stronger immune response.

 

    
   

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