Pu-erh red tea has attracted considerable interest from people looking to shed extra pounds. It is said to have strong fat burning properties. However, the question of losing weight by just drinking red tea, in the absence of other weight loss measures, seems questionable. Undoubtedly, Pu-erh red tea is worth a try. It has a very beneficial effect on the functioning of the body, thanks in part to its high content of antioxidant substances.
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Pu-erh red tea – how is it made and what does it contain?
Originating from the Yunnan province in China, Pu-erh red tea is not as versatile in flavour as traditional black tea and certainly doesn’t appeal to everyone. It has a distinctive earthy flavor, which many people find objectionable. Nevertheless, it has its fair share of fans who appreciate its taste and, above all, its qualities for good health, a fit mind and a slim figure.
Mainly produced in China, Pu-erh red tea is classified as semi-fermented tea (other varieties of semi-fermented tea include Oolong and Puszong). It is created by a specific fermentation mechanism that does not last as long as the fermentation of black tea, but is interrupted rather quickly when the leaves turn reddish. Additionally, most Pu-erh teas undergo a steeping process after fermentation. The unique processing of Pu-erh teas ensures that they remain highly valuable in terms of their content, which translates into powerful bioactive effects.
In the composition of Pu-erh red tea, you will find:
- large amounts of polyphenols (tannins and flavonoids, including catechins);
- amino acids;
- enzymes;
- caffeine;
- alkaloids;
- fluorine;
- calcium;
- manganese;
- magnesium;
- copper,
- zinc and selenium;
- vitamin E.
Red tea properties
Thanks to a large amount of antioxidants, i.e. compounds, which neutralize harmful free radicals, red tea Pu-erh inhibits the processes of aging and degeneration of our body cells. The tea also has anti-cancer properties. But that’s not all. Pu-erh supports the cardiovascular system, reduces the level of bad cholesterol in blood, helps to regulate blood pressure. It also has a positive effect on the work of the brain, improving concentration, memory and stimulating mental abilities.
Pu-erh red tea has a strengthening effect and helps in states of decreased immunity. Thanks to it we are more vital, we can enjoy a better mood and our body can better deal with bacteria, viruses or fungi and infections and diseases caused by them. What is more, thanks to fluorine and calcium, Pu-erh is beneficial to the health of our teeth and bones, and thanks to antioxidants it improves the condition of our skin and helps to maintain a young appearance. It is also worth mentioning the positive effects of red tea Pu-erh on the liver, bile ducts and digestive system.
Red tea for weight loss
Fat slayer, kilogram killer – these terms are sometimes used for Pu-erh tea. But how close to reality are they? On the one hand, you can not deny the red tea promotes fat reduction, on the other hand, calling the drink a fat killer is greatly exaggerated. Drinking Pu-erh tea alone will not slim you down. If you don’t eat a low-calorie diet or lead a sedentary lifestyle, you won’t get rid of the fat.
In certain situations, however, Pu-erh tea can accelerate the weight loss process. Thanks to the high content of polyphenols and enzymes, it supports the secretion of bile and digestive juices and has a positive effect on intestinal function. By acting as a diuretic it supports detoxification of the body. It improves digestion processes, including digestion of fats delivered in food, it can also to some extent inhibit further fat gaining.
If you drink a few cups of Pu-erh tea a day, if you also engage in regular physical training and establish a diet, you can count on satisfactory results in losing weight.
Red tea – opinions
Does red tea reduce weight? Opinions on this subject vary. Many people are of the opinion that drinking red tea for weight loss does nothing, but you can not deny the drink other health benefits, such as cleansing toxins, help with digestive problems, strengthen immunity or improve mood and skin condition.
There are also positive claims about Pu-erh in the context of weight loss. Some people notice a slight weight loss after drinking this tea, others more. Undoubtedly, a lot depends on several factors , including the quality of the raw material itself, how much tea you drink per day and, above all, your lifestyle. People who eat a diet and are friends with physical activity generally find Pu-erh tea helps with weight loss more.
Read also: Green tea for weight loss
Red tea – steeping
Pour a flat tablespoon of Pu-erh red tea leaves into a glass, mug or cup and pour water at a temperature of about 95 degrees Celsius. Steep for about 2-4 minutes, covered. The same leaves can be brewed again, but then the steeping time should be slightly longer. It is best to drink Pe-erh tea several minutes or half an hour after meals.
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