I received the news on Friday, through a national networking forum that I participate in, that Dr. Oz would be doing a show on reducing stubborn belly fat through the use of a product called DHEA. Fortunately, I was able to watch the show yesterday, and today I want to just give my 2 cents on this topic. Thank you to all who have sent FB messages, texts, and made phone calls surrounding the information given on the show. Your questions are always welcomed.
DHEA is a steroid hormone (key point) secreted in greater quantity by the adrenal glands than any other adrenal steroid. For many years, scientists assumed that DHEA served as a reservoir for the body to provide other hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. But recent findings indicate that higher levels of DHEA are associated with increased longevity, prevention of heart disease and cancer, and as you heard yesterday, weight control.
Here's just a few things I want you to know before you go out and purchase DHEA for your bulging waist line.
1. DHEA is a hormone. (remember key point)
2. DHEA can turn into other hormones which may already be high. Another key point!
3. 7-keto DHEA is structurally different (hence the name, and the one that the show mentioned), but the dosing is higher than I have seen patients be able to tolerate throughout my years of doing this.
4. I think testing is critical. Just going out and buying magic products that affect hormone producing glands is NOT good medicine.
5. Saliva testing is a great way to look at your adrenal markers. The cost to do a good hormone panel is $120-$240 depending on what problems you are experiencing. I can help guide you through that process. The testing is something you can do from the convenience of your own home.
6. I do have many patients on DHEA therapy, but I customize it in the lab according to their deficiencies. Sometimes I recommend over the counter versions when no concerns prohibit doing that. I use pure 100% pharmaceutical grade product purchased from an FDA approved supplier and by prescription.
I don't want to overwhelm you with too much information, but I do want you to know additional facts that the show did not present. The waves of treatments, cures, lotions, and potions have been many throughout the years. I'm excited that the national media is bringing these alternative treatments to light, but as a healthcare professional, I want to go the extra mile and keep my circle of clients informed. So there you go!
My two cents,
Dr. Sonja
Customized Medicines
Dr. Sonja O'Bryan, Pharm.D., ABAAHP Board Certified Health Practitioner Diplomate-American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine: "Creative Medicines" for Hormones-Weight-Pain-Fatigue-Skin Diseases-Pediatrics-Autoimmune Disorders-Veterinary Needs. Using Complimentary, Integrative, Regenerative, Bio-Identical, and Lifestyle Medicine For Health and Healing.
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
Monday, February 13, 2012
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Our Top 10
Got a question? I want to know. Of the many questions that I receive daily, I have compiled a list of the top 10 for you. Just in case you also want to know.
Here we go:
1) I watched Dr. Oz, Oprah, Robin McGraw, and the new Suzanne Somers show and wondered if you do Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement? Yes! This, believe it or not, is one of the top questions that patients ask when they first seek out my name and number.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement has been around for decades, but recently through the avenue of major media resources (TV, Radio, Talkshows) and celebrities such as Dr. Oz, Oprah, Robin McGraw, Suzanne Somers, and Linda Evans, women are seeking this more natural treatment approach to their hormone problems. An quite honestly, the TV commercials on low-T are driving men into our office as well for Testosterone testing. I'm just thankful that whatever the source, people are coming to a better understanding of this key treatment to feeling better and looking better.
2) Can you test my hormones? Yes! The testing phase of hormones and analysis of deficiencies can be accomplished in two ways. 1) Through getting a blood sample by your physician or medical provider 2) By obtaining a saliva kit from our offices. There are certain key hormones to be tested. I can help in that process. I also do private consultations for JUST $50. An appointment is required. This is a great way to get up close and personal information about hormones and aging. I also offer testing for iodine deficiency, Vitamin D deficiency, thyroid levels, and neurotransmitters.
3) How much does the actual therapy cost? Most of the customized formulations that we prepare are similar in out-of-pocket cost to what you would pay as a co-pay to your private insurance. A good ballpark figure is $40-50 per month. Some insurance plans will cover compounded hormones and we can work with you and your insurance to determine if we can get things approved.
4) What is a customized formulation? It's simply the individual hormone components that you need in the dosing that you need. Nothing more. Nothing less. It's a PERSONAL formulation for YOU. One size does NOT fit all and this is why this area of medicine is growing at such a rapid pace.
5) How do I go about doing the saliva test? We carry the home testing kits in our office along with a plethora of reading material on Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. If you would like us to mail you the kit and information, we would be happy to. We charge $20 to mail the kit and all of the material to your home. IF you happen to live near our office, you are welcome to pick one up with no appointment necessary.
6) How do I complete the actual testing? The kit is designed with everything you need. Inside the kit you will find: a form to fill out, a vial for your saliva collection, a credit card form for processing, a mailer kit and pre-paid label, and specific instructions on what to do. We are here to help guide you as well. It's just a simple phone call to me or my staff . We can walk you through the dates to test and the "how-to's". It's Easy Breezy and I saliva test every year. If I can do it, you can do it! If you want me to be the one to assess your hormone imbalances and stress, the kit DOES NEED to come from my office so the lab knows where to send the results. email drsonjaobryan@gmail.com
http://youtu.be/GLcKQoD3qzw
7) What do you do with the results? I call YOU with the results as soon as they post to my private web portal. I will discuss with you the hormone levels and what they mean. It's very enlightening, let me tell you. I read saliva and blood hormone levels everyday. I can tell you things about yourself that you've been waiting to hear someone acknowledge. It's not all in your head in case you've ever been told that. Then, I will forward your results along with a treatment recommendation to the physician or provider of your choice. I prepare a nice packet with a cover letter, your results, and an analysis for your doctor to see.
8) I have a daughter that is having problems, can you test young people? Yes! I have more and more young women seeking answers to infertility issues, PMS symptoms, weight gain, painful periods, absence of periods, etc. Please don't hesitate to call me if you know a young woman who is having problems. Call or email ASAP!!
9) Where are you located? IN BRANSON MO NOW!! But, we have patients all over the U.S. and can coordinate testing and shipping from the good ol' Midwest. The personal/professional guideline that I follow is that I do want to spend some time on the phone or in person with my patients. It just works better to know and understand what challenges are going on and if I think I might be able to help. It's just the right thing to do for you. (I cringe when I hear that people are buying things online without any kind of guidance.) Often a family member has found me and will share their positive testimonial with you. In that case, call me and tell me who sent you, and then we can talk privately about your need from there.
10) Do you travel and teach this? Yes I do! I LOVE teaching seminars to physicians, community groups, church women's groups, and so on. I realized some years ago just how many women and men were sitting out there in the crowd not knowing that they had an explanation to the way they were feeling. It compels me to get the word out to as many as I can. email me at drsonja@onpurposewomen.com to find out a fee schedule and some of the programs available to suit your event. Anti-Aging, Hormones, Stress, Fatigue, and Weight Management programs are some of the BIGGIES that are relevant to people wanting to live, look, and feel better, longer.
The event can be tailored to your group and your goal. I've taught in salons, health food stores, churches, government offices, physicians offices, and so on. I just need a screen, a projector, and people to listen. If you're looking for something that every person attending your event will love, plan to do something like this. I can share some of the fun topic titles I've done throughout the years.
BTW.....It's always a hit when you're talking HORMONES! My book can also be added to your event registration packet at a reduced price to those in attendance.
Well that's the Top 10 list. I'm excited to be taking care of stay- at-home moms, physicians, executives, entertainers, teachers, administrators, and a host of other women from all walks of life who want to look and feel great.
Get tested! Get treated!
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
Here we go:
1) I watched Dr. Oz, Oprah, Robin McGraw, and the new Suzanne Somers show and wondered if you do Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement? Yes! This, believe it or not, is one of the top questions that patients ask when they first seek out my name and number.
Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement has been around for decades, but recently through the avenue of major media resources (TV, Radio, Talkshows) and celebrities such as Dr. Oz, Oprah, Robin McGraw, Suzanne Somers, and Linda Evans, women are seeking this more natural treatment approach to their hormone problems. An quite honestly, the TV commercials on low-T are driving men into our office as well for Testosterone testing. I'm just thankful that whatever the source, people are coming to a better understanding of this key treatment to feeling better and looking better.
2) Can you test my hormones? Yes! The testing phase of hormones and analysis of deficiencies can be accomplished in two ways. 1) Through getting a blood sample by your physician or medical provider 2) By obtaining a saliva kit from our offices. There are certain key hormones to be tested. I can help in that process. I also do private consultations for JUST $50. An appointment is required. This is a great way to get up close and personal information about hormones and aging. I also offer testing for iodine deficiency, Vitamin D deficiency, thyroid levels, and neurotransmitters.
3) How much does the actual therapy cost? Most of the customized formulations that we prepare are similar in out-of-pocket cost to what you would pay as a co-pay to your private insurance. A good ballpark figure is $40-50 per month. Some insurance plans will cover compounded hormones and we can work with you and your insurance to determine if we can get things approved.
4) What is a customized formulation? It's simply the individual hormone components that you need in the dosing that you need. Nothing more. Nothing less. It's a PERSONAL formulation for YOU. One size does NOT fit all and this is why this area of medicine is growing at such a rapid pace.
5) How do I go about doing the saliva test? We carry the home testing kits in our office along with a plethora of reading material on Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy. If you would like us to mail you the kit and information, we would be happy to. We charge $20 to mail the kit and all of the material to your home. IF you happen to live near our office, you are welcome to pick one up with no appointment necessary.
6) How do I complete the actual testing? The kit is designed with everything you need. Inside the kit you will find: a form to fill out, a vial for your saliva collection, a credit card form for processing, a mailer kit and pre-paid label, and specific instructions on what to do. We are here to help guide you as well. It's just a simple phone call to me or my staff . We can walk you through the dates to test and the "how-to's". It's Easy Breezy and I saliva test every year. If I can do it, you can do it! If you want me to be the one to assess your hormone imbalances and stress, the kit DOES NEED to come from my office so the lab knows where to send the results. email drsonjaobryan@gmail.com
http://youtu.be/GLcKQoD3qzw
7) What do you do with the results? I call YOU with the results as soon as they post to my private web portal. I will discuss with you the hormone levels and what they mean. It's very enlightening, let me tell you. I read saliva and blood hormone levels everyday. I can tell you things about yourself that you've been waiting to hear someone acknowledge. It's not all in your head in case you've ever been told that. Then, I will forward your results along with a treatment recommendation to the physician or provider of your choice. I prepare a nice packet with a cover letter, your results, and an analysis for your doctor to see.
8) I have a daughter that is having problems, can you test young people? Yes! I have more and more young women seeking answers to infertility issues, PMS symptoms, weight gain, painful periods, absence of periods, etc. Please don't hesitate to call me if you know a young woman who is having problems. Call or email ASAP!!
9) Where are you located? IN BRANSON MO NOW!! But, we have patients all over the U.S. and can coordinate testing and shipping from the good ol' Midwest. The personal/professional guideline that I follow is that I do want to spend some time on the phone or in person with my patients. It just works better to know and understand what challenges are going on and if I think I might be able to help. It's just the right thing to do for you. (I cringe when I hear that people are buying things online without any kind of guidance.) Often a family member has found me and will share their positive testimonial with you. In that case, call me and tell me who sent you, and then we can talk privately about your need from there.
10) Do you travel and teach this? Yes I do! I LOVE teaching seminars to physicians, community groups, church women's groups, and so on. I realized some years ago just how many women and men were sitting out there in the crowd not knowing that they had an explanation to the way they were feeling. It compels me to get the word out to as many as I can. email me at drsonja@onpurposewomen.com to find out a fee schedule and some of the programs available to suit your event. Anti-Aging, Hormones, Stress, Fatigue, and Weight Management programs are some of the BIGGIES that are relevant to people wanting to live, look, and feel better, longer.
The event can be tailored to your group and your goal. I've taught in salons, health food stores, churches, government offices, physicians offices, and so on. I just need a screen, a projector, and people to listen. If you're looking for something that every person attending your event will love, plan to do something like this. I can share some of the fun topic titles I've done throughout the years.
BTW.....It's always a hit when you're talking HORMONES! My book can also be added to your event registration packet at a reduced price to those in attendance.
Well that's the Top 10 list. I'm excited to be taking care of stay- at-home moms, physicians, executives, entertainers, teachers, administrators, and a host of other women from all walks of life who want to look and feel great.
Get tested! Get treated!
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
Friday, January 27, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Are you feeling HOT, HOT, HOT?
The number one symptom menopausal women complain of is HOT FLASHES. I doubt that's a big shocker to anyone reading this article. And just so you know, I've heard just about every statement imagineable from women who try to describe their FLARE-UPs to me in the office. I love hearing them and have collected some favorites throughout the years which I now look back on and smile about.
Flinging the covers off at night, fanning like a crazy person, running the A/C in 50 degree weather are all explanations talked about day-in and day-out around here. It's fun in the way that they describe the problem of hot flashes, but I promise you there is a sincere cry for help when they get to the point of seeing me to help uncover the problem. I remember a patient a few years ago that sat in the chair and dripped with sweat as I tried to interview her. It was sad to have to watch her suffer in that way but there was an even greater problem that the hot flashes had brought about. The affection of her spouse had dimished because of her constant and profuse sweating. She felt half-human at that point and really needed some answers.
So what happens when a "Hot Flash" strikes? (no pun intended.....I told you I've heard them all)
Vasomotor flushing is the technical term and happens when blood vessels in the skin of the head and neck open more widely than usual, allowing more blood to shift into that area. This creates the heat and redness that a woman feels during a "Hot Flash". The reasons for the onset of the hot flash can be many, but usually are the result of declining estrogens and rising levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The real problem is that one never knows when they are going to happen. NEWS BULLETIN!!!..... Usually 'hot flashes' will occur right during something very important or when you are in front of A LOT of people. (Murphys Law right?)
What should you do if you are feeling Hot, Hot, Hot?
Hormone testing (saliva is my preference) helps to identify the degree to which things are out-of-whack and should always be used as a guide for care and treatment. Everyday, I work with M.D.'s, Nurse Practitioners, and PA's from all over the area and in other states who are more than welcome to call and discuss your care plan with me. Why? Because a patient should use only the hormones that are identified as deficient and not something that is convenient and packed with unnecessary components for their body. I suggest a full hormone panel before doing ANYthing in the world of hormones. In my patients, I require Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone, and sometimes DHEA, and Cortisol levels to be tested. Hormone testing just gives a good picture of what's going on inside. The other important part of the process is a patient interview. This helps me to consider other health concerns and family history information.
Throughout the years I have been surprised a few times to see that the problem was not estrogen, but one of the other hormones (that I mentioned above) being out of balance. There have also been a few times that the problem was not hormonal, but a stress related condition for which I recommended herbal remedies and lifestyle changes. Honestly, it would have been terrible to put estrogen therapy on board with these patients when estrogen wasn't the problem at all. That's why I enjoy serving in the field of customized medicine. It's about each person and each need and it's why this field of medicine is growing almost exponentially throughout the country. "Cookie cutter" medicine is simply not the best approach to hormone problems anymore.
So if you're "all fired up" and feeling Hot Hot Hot, please don't hesitate to give me a call.
Maybe I can help cool things down a bit for you.
To your good health,
Dr Sonja
Flinging the covers off at night, fanning like a crazy person, running the A/C in 50 degree weather are all explanations talked about day-in and day-out around here. It's fun in the way that they describe the problem of hot flashes, but I promise you there is a sincere cry for help when they get to the point of seeing me to help uncover the problem. I remember a patient a few years ago that sat in the chair and dripped with sweat as I tried to interview her. It was sad to have to watch her suffer in that way but there was an even greater problem that the hot flashes had brought about. The affection of her spouse had dimished because of her constant and profuse sweating. She felt half-human at that point and really needed some answers.
So what happens when a "Hot Flash" strikes? (no pun intended.....I told you I've heard them all)
Vasomotor flushing is the technical term and happens when blood vessels in the skin of the head and neck open more widely than usual, allowing more blood to shift into that area. This creates the heat and redness that a woman feels during a "Hot Flash". The reasons for the onset of the hot flash can be many, but usually are the result of declining estrogens and rising levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). The real problem is that one never knows when they are going to happen. NEWS BULLETIN!!!..... Usually 'hot flashes' will occur right during something very important or when you are in front of A LOT of people. (Murphys Law right?)
What should you do if you are feeling Hot, Hot, Hot?
Hormone testing (saliva is my preference) helps to identify the degree to which things are out-of-whack and should always be used as a guide for care and treatment. Everyday, I work with M.D.'s, Nurse Practitioners, and PA's from all over the area and in other states who are more than welcome to call and discuss your care plan with me. Why? Because a patient should use only the hormones that are identified as deficient and not something that is convenient and packed with unnecessary components for their body. I suggest a full hormone panel before doing ANYthing in the world of hormones. In my patients, I require Estrogen, Progesterone, Testosterone, and sometimes DHEA, and Cortisol levels to be tested. Hormone testing just gives a good picture of what's going on inside. The other important part of the process is a patient interview. This helps me to consider other health concerns and family history information.
Throughout the years I have been surprised a few times to see that the problem was not estrogen, but one of the other hormones (that I mentioned above) being out of balance. There have also been a few times that the problem was not hormonal, but a stress related condition for which I recommended herbal remedies and lifestyle changes. Honestly, it would have been terrible to put estrogen therapy on board with these patients when estrogen wasn't the problem at all. That's why I enjoy serving in the field of customized medicine. It's about each person and each need and it's why this field of medicine is growing almost exponentially throughout the country. "Cookie cutter" medicine is simply not the best approach to hormone problems anymore.
So if you're "all fired up" and feeling Hot Hot Hot, please don't hesitate to give me a call.
Maybe I can help cool things down a bit for you.
To your good health,
Dr Sonja
Monday, January 9, 2012
ZyEstraPrexaProzacolam
If I were to name a customized medicine after 25 years of being in this profession, I would probably call it this. Why the long word? Because that's just how they do the nomenclature in this business, but also, it reflects the lists of medications that usually appear in my office as I talk with patients.
This fancy name is what I refer to as the Cocktail of Aging. Many women and men that come to my office for a consultation on aging, reproductive issues, menopausal symptoms, and the like, will often share their medical history of insomnia, depression, anxiety, weight gain, irritability, anxiety, and so on. But they will also share a medication list for a pill to treat each and every symptom that they struggle with. I take the information, close their chart, and begin to simply describe the process of aging and the things that can occur as a result of improper hormone balance. Polypharmacy is not the answer but getting to the real cause of the problem is a much better way to approach things.
Here's what I simply share with my patients.
Take a quick look at these symptoms of Estrogen Deficiency:
shortness of breath, insomnia, vaginal dryness, anxiety, headache, heart palpitations, incontinence (to name a few).... Now a Menopause Cocktail list for this patient might include: Proventil Inhaler, Lunesta, Vagifem, Xanax, Hydrocodone, Propranolol, and Detrol. (in order of symptom need).
And then I share, here's some of the symptoms of Progesterone Deficiency:
Headache, Anxiety, Moodiness and Irritability, Depression, Cravings, Trouble going to sleep, Weight gain, Water Retention. The Menopause Cocktail for this might include: Imitrex, Ativan, Prozac, Ambien, Phentermine, and Lasix.
Moving right along to Testosterone Deficiency:
Low libido, Fatigue, Aches and Pains, Incontinence, Depression, Bone Loss, Decreased Muscle Mass, Fibromyalgia, Thinning Skin, and Decreased Stamina. So the Cocktail for this patient might include EstraTest, Gabapentin, Ibuprofen, Detrol, Celexa, Fosamax, and Lidoderm patches.
This is not just about the women either. WHAT ABOUT MEN? (I'm glad you asked)
Here's a quick review of the symptoms men deal with as they go through Andropause: Bone loss, Back pain, Decreased Muscle Strength, Decreased Urine Flow, Depression, E.D., High cholesterol, Hot flashes, Low Libido, Irritability, Moodiness, Insomnia, and weight gain especially in the abdominal area. So 'his' cocktail might include: Calcium +D, Hydrocodone, Flomax, Paxil, Viagra, Lipitor, ....etc.... Maybe for the men I would call the medicine ZyTestraPrexaPaxil just to have a fun name for the guys.
Really it's not fun at all to sit down with a patient who has been existing in the world of polypharmacy. Often they find their way to me after years and years of taking multiple medicines just to exist in the real world. I am thankful that providers are really listening to the opinions of their patients these days as they come to a formalized answer as to the source of the problem. I tell patients that they are their best healthcare provider. They know how they feel. They know what works and what doesn't. And in this age, it's common for patients to come to my office having done their own research beforehand. I love that and encourage it.
Are you on a COCKTAIL of band-aid pharmaceuticals? Have you ever once considered that hormones are to blame?
My goal in this blog is to point your attention in a different direction as to some of the reasons why you might be feeling worn out, burnt out, crabby, sad, anxious, tired, and so on. I have tested hundreds of patients throughout the years and now work with patients and providers all over Missouri and in other states who want to assess these other reasons. Give me a call and I will be happy to share more information with you.
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
This fancy name is what I refer to as the Cocktail of Aging. Many women and men that come to my office for a consultation on aging, reproductive issues, menopausal symptoms, and the like, will often share their medical history of insomnia, depression, anxiety, weight gain, irritability, anxiety, and so on. But they will also share a medication list for a pill to treat each and every symptom that they struggle with. I take the information, close their chart, and begin to simply describe the process of aging and the things that can occur as a result of improper hormone balance. Polypharmacy is not the answer but getting to the real cause of the problem is a much better way to approach things.
Here's what I simply share with my patients.
Take a quick look at these symptoms of Estrogen Deficiency:
shortness of breath, insomnia, vaginal dryness, anxiety, headache, heart palpitations, incontinence (to name a few).... Now a Menopause Cocktail list for this patient might include: Proventil Inhaler, Lunesta, Vagifem, Xanax, Hydrocodone, Propranolol, and Detrol. (in order of symptom need).
And then I share, here's some of the symptoms of Progesterone Deficiency:
Headache, Anxiety, Moodiness and Irritability, Depression, Cravings, Trouble going to sleep, Weight gain, Water Retention. The Menopause Cocktail for this might include: Imitrex, Ativan, Prozac, Ambien, Phentermine, and Lasix.
Moving right along to Testosterone Deficiency:
Low libido, Fatigue, Aches and Pains, Incontinence, Depression, Bone Loss, Decreased Muscle Mass, Fibromyalgia, Thinning Skin, and Decreased Stamina. So the Cocktail for this patient might include EstraTest, Gabapentin, Ibuprofen, Detrol, Celexa, Fosamax, and Lidoderm patches.
This is not just about the women either. WHAT ABOUT MEN? (I'm glad you asked)
Here's a quick review of the symptoms men deal with as they go through Andropause: Bone loss, Back pain, Decreased Muscle Strength, Decreased Urine Flow, Depression, E.D., High cholesterol, Hot flashes, Low Libido, Irritability, Moodiness, Insomnia, and weight gain especially in the abdominal area. So 'his' cocktail might include: Calcium +D, Hydrocodone, Flomax, Paxil, Viagra, Lipitor, ....etc.... Maybe for the men I would call the medicine ZyTestraPrexaPaxil just to have a fun name for the guys.
Really it's not fun at all to sit down with a patient who has been existing in the world of polypharmacy. Often they find their way to me after years and years of taking multiple medicines just to exist in the real world. I am thankful that providers are really listening to the opinions of their patients these days as they come to a formalized answer as to the source of the problem. I tell patients that they are their best healthcare provider. They know how they feel. They know what works and what doesn't. And in this age, it's common for patients to come to my office having done their own research beforehand. I love that and encourage it.
Are you on a COCKTAIL of band-aid pharmaceuticals? Have you ever once considered that hormones are to blame?
My goal in this blog is to point your attention in a different direction as to some of the reasons why you might be feeling worn out, burnt out, crabby, sad, anxious, tired, and so on. I have tested hundreds of patients throughout the years and now work with patients and providers all over Missouri and in other states who want to assess these other reasons. Give me a call and I will be happy to share more information with you.
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Tea Time
I have never been much of a tea drinker, but after doing some research on this topic, I feel confident that my multivitamin regimen will always include various forms of tea. Mine personally includes green tea, black tea, and oolong tea to be very specific. I feel the tea gives me energy, helps maintain my weight, and gives me focus as I go about my day. If you are not using tea (either drinking or in capsule form), then please pay attention to the facts in this blog.
Tracing back to 700 A.D., tea houses became popular social centers amongs poets, royalty, educators, and physicians. And tea is still a staple in Chinese households today. I did not realize this, but the US is now China's seconds largest importer of tea. WOW! Americans like their tea. All teas come from an evergreen plant 'Camellia sinensis' which produces many types of teas (~300). The plants can grow crazy high (50 feet), but most are kept at about 5 feet tall. Of the 300 varieties of tea, there are really 5 types that are of importance to health and longevity. I want to keep the blog short so I feel doing just a simple breakdown list is probably the best approach.
So here goes....lets talk teas.
Types of Teas
1. Black Tea-(fully fermented) has a smoky flavor. has warming properties so it's best in colder months. is good for people with pain in the extremities due to cold weather. is good for poor circulation, arthritis, and coughs caused by a cold. Pu-er black tea is the most effective for weight, triglycerides, and cholesterol. It is used in Chinese medicinals to decrease risk of stroke, atherosclerosis, and obesity.
2. Oolong Tea- (half fermented) can aid in digestion. can decrease absorption of fats from big meals. is beneficial for patients who have skin problems such as acne.
3. Green Tea- (not fermented) has a weaker ability to boost metabolism as compared to the other teas. popular during summers because of their cooling properties. has a high antioxidant content. Gunpowder tea is the green tea with the highest antioxidant content.
4. Flower, Fruit, and Scented Teas: (black, green, and oolong) a popular tea during summer because of it's cooling properties, decreased effect on sweating, dehydration, headaches, irritability, allergies, and eye problems. Fruit teas are great for those with intestinal and stomach problems such as bloating, gas, indigestion, and heartburn.
5. White tea is not readily available unfortunately because of its seasonal extraction process.
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Research proves that tea has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It lowers blood glucose, prevents tooth decay, boosts the immune system, and increases blood flow and energy. Tea can also decrease plaque in blood vessels. There's more. The polyphenols in tea contain powerful antioxidants that aid in cancer prevention. And, both black and green tea inhibit the activity of enzymes linked to Alzheimers disease. WOW! Pour me a cup.
Cancer: heavy smokers who drank at least 4 cups of tea each day had a 31% reduction in a chemical that is released causing DNA damage. (American Assoc. for Cancer Research)
Blood Pressure: Habitual tea drinkers showed a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over the course of a year.
Other Uses: Washing a cut to prevent infection. Treating athletes foot. Placing tea leaves in a pillow case to serve as an air freshener. Mouthwash for bad breath. Who knew???
What about the caffeine? a common misconception is that caffeine is bad. (I'm actually quite fond of it myself. LOL!) Teas are caffeinated but release differently than coffee products which give a quick jolt. Teas boost energy and focus by giving a slow steady release throughout the day. Caffeine in tea is significantly lower than that found in coffee. Patients sensitive to coffee can usually handle tea just fine.
So there you have it. Tea Time is good for you. Invite me over, we'll sip some tea. :)
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
417-777-7455
Tracing back to 700 A.D., tea houses became popular social centers amongs poets, royalty, educators, and physicians. And tea is still a staple in Chinese households today. I did not realize this, but the US is now China's seconds largest importer of tea. WOW! Americans like their tea. All teas come from an evergreen plant 'Camellia sinensis' which produces many types of teas (~300). The plants can grow crazy high (50 feet), but most are kept at about 5 feet tall. Of the 300 varieties of tea, there are really 5 types that are of importance to health and longevity. I want to keep the blog short so I feel doing just a simple breakdown list is probably the best approach.
So here goes....lets talk teas.
Types of Teas
1. Black Tea-(fully fermented) has a smoky flavor. has warming properties so it's best in colder months. is good for people with pain in the extremities due to cold weather. is good for poor circulation, arthritis, and coughs caused by a cold. Pu-er black tea is the most effective for weight, triglycerides, and cholesterol. It is used in Chinese medicinals to decrease risk of stroke, atherosclerosis, and obesity.
2. Oolong Tea- (half fermented) can aid in digestion. can decrease absorption of fats from big meals. is beneficial for patients who have skin problems such as acne.
3. Green Tea- (not fermented) has a weaker ability to boost metabolism as compared to the other teas. popular during summers because of their cooling properties. has a high antioxidant content. Gunpowder tea is the green tea with the highest antioxidant content.
4. Flower, Fruit, and Scented Teas: (black, green, and oolong) a popular tea during summer because of it's cooling properties, decreased effect on sweating, dehydration, headaches, irritability, allergies, and eye problems. Fruit teas are great for those with intestinal and stomach problems such as bloating, gas, indigestion, and heartburn.
5. White tea is not readily available unfortunately because of its seasonal extraction process.
HEALTH BENEFITS:
Research proves that tea has antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It lowers blood glucose, prevents tooth decay, boosts the immune system, and increases blood flow and energy. Tea can also decrease plaque in blood vessels. There's more. The polyphenols in tea contain powerful antioxidants that aid in cancer prevention. And, both black and green tea inhibit the activity of enzymes linked to Alzheimers disease. WOW! Pour me a cup.
Cancer: heavy smokers who drank at least 4 cups of tea each day had a 31% reduction in a chemical that is released causing DNA damage. (American Assoc. for Cancer Research)
Blood Pressure: Habitual tea drinkers showed a decrease in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure over the course of a year.
Other Uses: Washing a cut to prevent infection. Treating athletes foot. Placing tea leaves in a pillow case to serve as an air freshener. Mouthwash for bad breath. Who knew???
What about the caffeine? a common misconception is that caffeine is bad. (I'm actually quite fond of it myself. LOL!) Teas are caffeinated but release differently than coffee products which give a quick jolt. Teas boost energy and focus by giving a slow steady release throughout the day. Caffeine in tea is significantly lower than that found in coffee. Patients sensitive to coffee can usually handle tea just fine.
So there you have it. Tea Time is good for you. Invite me over, we'll sip some tea. :)
To your good health,
Dr. Sonja
417-777-7455
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