| Home > Site Map > Conditions > F > Fibrocystic breast disease |
| This group of conditions is very common in younger women, occurring in about 20% of premenopausal females. Both breasts become tender or painful and lumpy, and the symptoms vary at different times in the menstrual cycle. FBD is associated with a 3-fold higher risk for the development of breast cancer. For years, doctors have recommended that women avoid caffeine, high fat diets and so on, and even to take drugs with strong side effects. For example, Dr. Gregory Heigh of Florida has found that over 90% of women with fibrocystic changes find improvement when they stop wearing their brassieres. They found that the more hours per day that women wear bras, the higher their rates of breast cancer. This prevents the natural flushing out of accumulated cancer-causing wastes and toxins from the breast. People experience something similar when their feet swell and their legs "go to sleep" on long airplane flights (lack of movement, and pressure on the legs). In fact, some women actually find that they sag less, presumably because their chest ligaments and muscles improve their tone and strength when they must do the work of supporting the breasts. Dietary changes may be helpful: Long-term and complete avoidance of caffeine reduces symptoms of fibrocystic disease. Caffeine is found in coffee, black and green tea, cola drinks, chocolate, and a number of over-the-counter drugs. Many doctors are confused about the effects of caffeine on breast tissue because, at first glance, the research appears contradictory. Research has been done studying the effects of caffeine on breast symptoms in twins. In that report, the twin with symptoms was more likely be the coffee drinker. Nevertheless, many women take 400 IU of vitamin E for three months to see if it helps. Women with premenstrual syndrome in addition to breast tenderness should discuss the use of vitamin B6 with their nutritionally oriented doctor. Some doctors of natural medicine use iodine for fibrocystic symptoms, either orally or intravaginally. In double blind studies, evening primrose oil (EPO) has been found to reduce symptoms of fibrocystic disease. |
| Caffeine/Coffee Avoidance Change In Clothing Habits Evening Primrose Oil Iodine Low/Decreased Fat Diet Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine) |