Breasts are a mixture of fat, glands and connective tissue so their texture will always be irregular. Breast tissues are affected by a woman’s monthly hormonal cycle. During the cycle, milk-secreting glands enlarge with fluid and their cells multiply. Most of the excess fluid is reabsorbed or drained by the lymphatic system. This occurs month after month and year after year. In some women this process causes fibrous tissue to develop into lumps. Symptoms include breast tenderness and swelling, and a lumpy feeling to the breast.

It can be very distressing to feel these lumps. Monthly breast self-exams, infrared breast scans and/or ultrasound can help lay your fears to rest. If a breast lump is discovered, have your physician assess it and don’t worry – most lumps are benign. Lumps that suddenly grow larger and don’t change with your menstrual cycle; discharge from your nipple; severe, unrelenting pain or puckered or dimpled skin on your breast should be reported to your physician immediately.

FBD occurs when there is excess estrogen or an imbalance in the ratio of estrogen to progesterone in the body due to stress, estrogen replacement therapy or xenoestrogens. FBD is also seen in young women with irregular periods. Lumps may come and go, with symptoms often disappearing after menstruation has passed and hormone levels return to normal. Because of its timing, it is considered a symptom of PMS.

Heavy coffee consumption has been linked to FBD, along with a diet high in bad fats. Being overweight is also a risk factor for FBD.

• To reduce estrogen levels, follow an organic, predominantly vegetarian diet and increase your fiber intake. Fiber carries estrogen out of the body.
• Detoxification and elimination of waste is very important. Eat liver-friendly foods such as lemons, onions, garlic, leeks, kale, carrots, beets, artichokes and members of the cabbage family (broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower).
• Avoid caffeine, chocolate, tea and cola drinks as they contain methyl-xanthines that cause FBD.
• Treat constipation to ensure elimination of toxins (See Constipation).

Other Recommendations

• Exercise regularly to improve circulation and help to detoxify and manage weight.
• Rule out low thyroid. Take THYROsmart if thyroid is low
• Natural Progesterone Cream (prescription drug) - Use 6% natural progesterone 1/4-1/2 tsp morning and night on days 5-28 (or whenever your normal cycle ends) Restores progesterone levels and alleviates estrogen-dominant symptoms
• Do self-exams monthly to familiarize yourself with your breasts so that you are able to detect subtle changes, such as thickening, lumps, etc., and when they occur or disappear.
• Avoid antiperspirants; they clog up drainage from the sweat glands and the toxins have to drain back into the breast.
• Massaging your breasts in a circular motion will improve lymph flow and circulation, while at the same time familiarizing you with their architecture. Make it a daily ritual, either during your morning shower or before you go to bed.
• To control pain, use castor oil packs (See Endometriosis for how-to information).