TEA FOR TWO

Tea is viewed as a healthy and flavorful drink in many countries and cultures. Because it is considered a staple in the diets of many people across the globe, there’s been a lot of interest in its healthpromoting properties. In recent years, research revealed tea has earned its rightful place in a healthy diet. Here are some ways drinking tea can benefit you.

Flavonoids

Some of the tea’s healthy qualities come from a particular group of chemicals in tea leaves called flavonoids They are known for their anti-cancer effects. Studies show that flavonoid-rich teas can prevent the formation of tumors and even kill precancerous cells.

Healthy antioxidants

Antioxidants play a complex role in human health, and they’re in tea. Although antioxidant effects are not fully understood, evidence suggests they protect your heart and circulatory system. Some studies indicate they can lower the risk of heart attack, increase hearthealthy HDL cholesterol, and help unclog arteries.

Potentially cancer-protective polyphenols

Polyphenols are another group of chemicals found in tea. Though there’s not enough research to know for sure, polyphenols appear to play a role in risk for certain cancers, but not others. Studies have found that women who drink black tea daily have lower rates of ovarian cancer, possibly due to the action of polyphenols.

With its numerous potential benefits, tea is a smart addition to any diet, and a great alternative to sugary drinks. While drinking tea is perfectly healthy for most people, even up to five cups a day, it is not without risk. Loading up your cup of tea with too much sugar or cream will add unhealthy calories and fat. Many teas contain significant amounts of caffeine, which may be unhealthy for those with high blood pressure or an irregular heartbeat. High caffeine intake also exacerbates existing health conditions such as anxiety disorders, sleep disorders, diabetes, and digestive disorders.

If you have a health condition that requires you to limit caffeine, you might want to pass on tea or choose a decaffeinated variety. Overall, tea is inexpensive, low-calorie, healthful, and comes in enough flavors and varieties to appeal to just about anyone. Enjoy your tea!

Jason A. Boardman, M.D., F.A.C.S.

After completing surgical training, Dr. Boardman served four years in the U.S. Army and received multiple military honors in 2005. After his military service, Dr. Boardman relocated to Clermont and opened a private surgical practice. He merged with Mid-Florida Surgical Associates in 2010.

Dr. Boardman, who specializes in general surgery, is board certified by the American Board of Surgery and is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons. He has interest in breast disease, vein treatments, and minimally invasive surgery with emphasis on oncological procedures for breast and colon. He and his partner, Dr. Christopher Johnson, offer patients the latest in minimally invasive surgeries, utilizing the da Vinci robot. He and Dr. Johnson are working together in the introduction of TIF(transoral incisionless fundoplication), a procedure used to treat acid reflux disease. They also perform in-office vasectomies and breast biopsies.

Dr.Boardman serves as the past president of the Lake-Sumter Medical Society and as chief of the South Lake Hospital Foundation board. He is also an assistant professor for UCF Community College. The Florida Medical Association has recognized him for his leadership, and the Consumers’ Research Council of America named him “One of America’s Top Surgeons”.

Dr. Boardman and his wife, Dr. Mary Beth Lewis-Boardman, have two children: Annabella and Sam.