ArabiaWeather - Oolong tea (black tea), which is grown in China, is very popular around the world thanks to its unique taste and therapeutic properties. Black and green tea are produced from the same basic ingredient, but each type is processed separately, where oxidation occurs that changes the color and taste of the tea.
During the oxidation process, green pigments in the leaves are unlocked, giving the tea its dark color and strong flavour. Brewing time affects the properties of tea, as over-fermentation can lead to changes in flavour, color and strength, while it can increase the level of nutritional content.
Green tea contains catechins, while black tea can lose some of it due to oxidation. Also known as “fully brewed,” black tea has a complex and strong taste compared to green tea. In addition, fermentation releases theaflavins, which are antioxidants exclusive to oxidized tea.
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The quality of tea varies between green and black based on factors such as temperature, quality of leaves, and fermentation process. Green and black teas range from mild to strong in taste, white versions can be milder and carry a vegetal flavour, while dark versions are more exotic and carry a deep roasted flavour.
Health benefits of oolong tea:
- Reducing the risk of diabetes: Laboratory experiments revealed that antioxidants in oolong tea reduce blood sugar levels. It also contributes to reducing insulin resistance, which is a condition in which the body fails to properly process sugar in the blood. Like diabetes and other health impairments (such as obesity), both glucose and insulin resistance increase the risk of diabetes.
- Heart Health: Oolong tea works by activating an enzyme that breaks down triglycerides – the main type of fat in the blood. These triglycerides cause arteries to swell, resulting in a buildup that puts a person at increased risk of having a stroke, heart attack, and other serious heart conditions. Research has also revealed that oolong tea is also another type of tea that reduces cholesterol which in high levels leads to heart diseases.
- Weight management: Studies have shown that oolong tea, as a beverage, may help reduce the rate of adipose tissue and increase the metabolic rate. This, in turn, will reduce the chances of obesity and facilitate the weight loss process. This research proves that oolong tea helps burn fat and increases the amount of energy your body converts into a reduction in calories by up to 3% to 4%.
- Support mental functions: Scientific research reveals that oolong tea is rich in an amino acid called theanine which has mental effects such as increased mental activity, better sleep quality, and reduced stress and depression. In addition, the antioxidants in oolong tea protect the brain, thus preventing neurological diseases in which parts of the nervous system stop working. Until now, scientists have
- Nutrition: Oxidation is one of the causes of aging and the accumulation of toxins in our bodies. Oxidation is also believed to be one of the main causes of diseases. However, drinking oolong tea improves its ability to fight the harmful effects of aging and disease. According to the study, the level of fluoride in this tea makes it as effective as the recommendations given by dentists for healthy teeth without cavities. Therefore, people can maintain their dental health, reducing tooth loss and diseases such as oral cancer.
How to prepare oolong tea:
Oolong tea counter can be an enjoyable experience at home or in cafes and restaurants, where you can choose from a variety of varieties available as loose leaves or bags.
For best results at home, use water that reaches 190°F (90°C), an ideal temperature to accurately extract flavors without compromising nutritional value. Excessive heat may lead to the loss of some of the antioxidants in the tea.
Studies have shown that brewing oolong tea at a temperature of 176 to 185 degrees Fahrenheit for 3 to 5 minutes results in maximum health and antioxidant benefits.
Here's a simple recipe for making the perfect cup of oolong tea:
- Place about two tablespoons of light tea into the teapot.
- Heat the water to about 189 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Steep the tea in the heated water for 3 to 5 minutes, depending on your personal preference for strength of flavour.
- Test the tea to see if the taste matches your needs, and extract it after 10 minutes if you want to maintain the health benefits of antioxidants.
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Sources:
7awwahome