Diabetes is a common chronic metabolic disease, and with the development of the economy, an aging population, and changes in people's lifestyles, its incidence is showing an increasing trend year by year.
Oolong tea can prevent diabetes and its complications by improving insulin resistance, activating the insulin signaling pathway, exerting insulin-like effects, improving oxidative stress, and reducing inflammatory reactions. For those seeking better health benefits, it is recommended to try high-quality oolong tea, such as loose leaf oolong tea.
Why Oolong Tea Can Help Control Diabetes?
In 2013, a randomized study involving 4808 participants, after adjusting for various confounding factors, observed a reduced risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in residents aged 45 and above in Fujian, China, who consumed green tea or oolong tea. Drinking oolong tea was negatively correlated with reduced glucose tolerance, and green tea and oolong tea improved the risk of T2DM through different mechanisms.
In a clinical trial conducted in Taiwan in 2003, where diabetic patients were taking regular antidiabetic medications, oolong tea was proven to be an effective oral hypoglycemic adjuvant substance. Researchers found that drinking oolong tea could be used as an adjunctive treatment for type II diabetes, lowering blood glucose levels. Additionally, when oolong tea was used in conjunction with hypoglycemic medications, it had a much better glucose-lowering effect than when the medications were used alone.
A 2019 study indicated that oolong tea is rich in active ingredients such as tea polysaccharides, tea polyphenols, catechins, and theaflavins. It can inhibit α-glucosidase activity, protect organs such as the pancreas, liver, and kidneys, improve insulin resistance, and thereby slow down sugar absorption, lower blood sugar levels, and alleviate the condition of diabetes.
Recommended Oolong Teas
1.TieGuanyin
TieGuanyin is the finest among Oolong teas, known for its high fragrance and lasting aftertaste. It is often described as "green leaves with red edges, with lingering aroma after seven infusions." It embodies the three beauties: the sweetness of black tea, the freshness of green tea, and the floral aroma of flower tea. It has been consistently rated as a precious gem in the world of tea, earning the title of the king of teas.
2.Da Hong Pao
Da Hong Pao (Big Red Robe) tea is produced in Wuyi Mountain, Fujian province. Renowned for its rich and mellow flavor, intense aroma, and strong aftertaste, it has gained international acclaim. Its distinctive features include vibrant color, highly fragrant dry leaves, bright red infusion, full-bodied taste, long-lasting aftertaste, and soft and even tea leaves. After tasting, it offers a comfortable mouthfeel with a sweet and lingering finish, making it an outstanding choice among premium teas.
Other Foods Helpful in Controlling Diabetes
1.Oats
Oats contain rich dietary fiber, which can slow the rise in post-meal blood sugar. Additionally, oats can increase the feeling of fullness, reducing the intake of other foods and aiding in blood sugar control.
2.Buckwheat
Buckwheat is rich in dietary fiber, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It can supplement the body with necessary nutrients and promote gastrointestinal movement, contributing to blood sugar control.
3.Black Rice
Black rice is packed with proteins, vitamins, calcium, iron, and other nutrients. It provides essential nutrients to the body and supports gastrointestinal movement, assisting in blood sugar control.
4.Onions
Onions are rich in prostaglandin A, which can assist in dilating blood vessels, reducing blood viscosity, and thereby aiding in lowering blood sugar.
5.Bitter Gourd (Bitter Melon)
Bitter gourd contains abundant vitamins, dietary fiber, minerals, and other nutrients. It can stimulate gastrointestinal movement, aid in digestion and absorption of food, and also play a role in assisting in lowering blood sugar.
Interested in trying high-quality oolong tea? Welcome to explore iTeaworld's new selection of oolong teas, featuring four classic varieties to help you discover the best loose leaf tea flavors.
For individuals dealing with diabetes, consuming oolong tea can be beneficial in controlling blood sugar levels. However, it's important to note that when enjoying oolong tea, it is recommended to prefer it in its hot form. Drinking cooled oolong tea should be avoided.
