Oolong tea is the most complex and flavorful tea in the world. And oolong tea has many benefits according to scientific studies.
One of the benefits is helping you to control your weight.
This article introduces 7 types of oolong tea that are perfect for weight loss. They are rich in flavor, affordable, and easy to brew.
Can Oolong Tea Help You Lose Weight?
Oolong tea might help you to lose weight. This is supported by several scientific studies.
A 2009 study discovered that catechins in oolong tea can increase fat burning. In this study, 102 obese people drank 8 grams of oolong tea every day for 6 weeks, with around 70% of them losing weight over 1 kg.
A 2022 study found that oolong tea extract can regulate lipid metabolism, which reduces fat synthesis and promotes fat breakdown and also improves the structure of gut microbiota. As a result, it helps prevent weight gain and fat accumulation caused by a high-fat diet.
Another 2022 study revealed that polyphenols in oolong tea can help counter the effects of high-fat, high-sugar diets. Polyphenols help reduce visceral fat and inflammation from unhealthy diets. They also improve healthy fatty acid ratios.
Want to learn more about oolong tea's benefits? Find out here!
Choose Premium Loose Leaf Oolong
When choosing oolong tea, go for premium loose-leaf tea. Although it's pricier than tea bags, loose-leaf tea uses whole leaves, which helps preserve more of the key components, such as tea polyphenols and natural aromas.
Loose-leaf oolong tea can also be brewed multiple times. Just 3–5 grams can be steeped several times while still retaining its flavor.
Besides, premium oolong teas have strong floral and fruity notes. With the right brewing method, you can fully enjoy the rich and complex taste of oolong tea.
Cheaper tea bags may contain artificial additives like flavoring or sugar. That might not be good for your weight loss routine.
Our Top 7 Picks
We've chosen 7 excellent oolong teas to support your weight-loss journey.
This selection offers something for everyone, from beginners to seasoned tea lovers.
These teas are perfect for both newcomers to oolong and those looking to explore high-end options. The expert craftsmanship really brings out the natural aromas that are unique to each tea variety.
1. Tie Guan Yin
Tie Guan Yin is one of the most famous oolong teas, originating from the Anxi region. Our Tie Guan Yin tea is sourced from high-altitude areas, above 800 meters. The light floral tieguanyin is perfect for those who enjoy fresh flavors, with a distinct orchid aroma and crisp taste. It’s great for cleansing the palate after meals.
2. Da Hong Pao
Another well-known oolong tea is Da Hong Pao, also known as Big Red Ropes. It comes in two styles: floral and traditional. The floral variety has a sweet, smooth flavor with floral notes. The traditional Da Hong Pao has a rich, cocoa-like, roasted aroma. It appeals to those who prefer a stronger taste.
3. Duck Shit Aroma (Ya Shi Xiang)
Duck Shit Aroma is a popular variety of Phoenix Dan Cong oolong. Known as the “perfume of teas,” it boasts intense floral and fruity notes, combined with honey-like sweetness. It is ideal for those who adore fragrant teas.
4. Traditional Tieguanyin
This version follows the traditional Tie Guan Yin processing method from the 1980s. It undergoes heavier fermentation and roasting. This gives a richer, fuller-bodied tea with golden liquor and floral and fruity notes.
5. Su Xin Lan
Su Xin Lan is a lesser-known Wuyi rock tea. It's a great choice if you want something different from classic Wuyi teas like Da Hong Pao or Rou Gui. It’s more lightly roasted, with floral and fruity aromas, and is gaining popularity in China in recent years.
6. Old Bush Shui Xian
Made from Shui Xian trees over 60 years old, Lao Cong Shui Xian delivers a mix of floral, fruity, and woody notes. If you’ve never tried it, this is an excellent tea to explore.
7. Ma Tou Yan Rou Gui
Rou Gui, a famous Wuyi rock tea, is known for its spicy cinnamon-like taste, along with floral and fruity notes. Our Rou Gui comes from the Ma Tou Yan area, offering a bold flavor with a long-lasting aftertaste.
Along with these recommendations, we offer many more oolong teas to explore.
When Is the Best Time to Drink Oolong Tea for Weight Loss?
1 Hour After Meals
Drinking oolong tea after meals can aid digestion by stimulating the secretion of gastric acid and speeding up the breakdown of food.
The polyphenols and caffeine in oolong tea also help break down fat and stabilize blood sugar levels, which can reduce fat storage.
In the Morning
Drinking oolong tea in the morning boosts your metabolism and burns fat. It sets you up for a productive, energetic day.
Note: If you have high stomach acidity, avoid drinking tea on an empty stomach. Oolong tea's caffeine and polyphenols can boost gastric acid, which may cause discomfort if there's no food to buffer it.
In the Afternoon
The afternoon is a prime time for burning fat. Drinking oolong tea can boost this process, combat afternoon fatigue, and keep you active.
Final Thought
Oolong tea has been shown to help break down fat, speed up metabolism, and improve body shape in many studies. To get the most out of its weight-loss benefits, drink it at the right times, such as after meals or before exercise. Combine it with a healthy diet and regular exercise for the best outcomes.
