Asian dietary secrets: Exploring Chinese women's health habits
Many women look enviously at Chinese women, who do not have to worry about extra pounds. Is it due to genetics, or perhaps a diet that prevents being overweight? It is worthwhile to examine the habits of Asian women, as the secret of their slender figure is likely hidden in their dietary customs.
To unravel this secret, it is essential to consider not only the diet but also the physical activity of Chinese women. How they work and how they relax—all of these influence their appearance. However, certain habits particularly invite consideration. Moreover, they are easy to implement, so you can quickly assess if they bring the expected results.
What do Chinese women eat?
The Chinese diet does not contain empty calories. Asian cuisine dishes are based on vegetables, fruits, fish, and whole grain products. Tofu is very popular and comes in many different flavours and colours. The soy cubes, which absorb seasonings like a sponge, are tossed into broth or served with stir-fried vegetables. Wheat noodles are replaced with easily digestible rice or soba noodles made from buckwheat.
This is not a diet based on carbohydrates but centred on nutrient-rich products. During cooler seasons, Chinese women avoid cold meals, and warm dishes are most often prepared by steaming. The menu is rich in seasonal vegetables and various spices that aid digestion.
Dragon brew for weight loss
A staple of the Chinese diet is a brew made from oolong tea, which is credited with almost magical properties. It is said to be the secret of good health for Chinese women well into old age. It benefits a healthy body and mind, aids digestion, and smooths wrinkles.
Oolong tea, also known as emerald tea, is one of the most popular teas in Asia, especially in China and Taiwan. It stands out due to a unique leaf fermentation process, which gives it properties characteristic of red Pu-erh tea, while its colour resembles green tea. Because of this, oolong combines the advantages of both these delicious and healthy beverages.
Health benefits of dragon brew
Regular consumption of oolong tea improves metabolism, aiding in the burning of body fat. In short, it has a slimming effect. The theine contained in tea leaves also has a diuretic effect, speeding up the expulsion of fluids from the body. Additionally, this brew is rich in catechins—antioxidants that support the conversion of energy into heat and lower levels of bad LDL cholesterol, which improves the circulatory system's condition.
Oolong tea positively affects liver function, preventing its fattening and helping to cleanse arterial vessels. Thanks to the presence of polyphenols, it also has anticancer effects and supports blood glucose level control, which is good news for diabetics.
How to brew oolong tea?
To fully enjoy the beneficial effects of oolong tea, it should be properly brewed:
- Pour a glass of water at 90-100 degrees Celsius over 1 teaspoon of oolong tea leaves.
- Cover it and let it steep for 3 minutes.
- Strain the tea leaves, leaving a clean essence in the cup.
When to drink oolong tea brew?
It is advisable to avoid consuming oolong tea during meals due to the tannin content, which can inhibit iron absorption. It's best to drink it an hour before or after a meal to reap the full health benefits. Long-term effects, such as improved metabolism or radiant and firm skin, result from daily consumption of the brew. Oolong tea can be found in health food stores, as well as online stores.
