These home remedies are meant to prevent and ease the symptoms of fibrocystic breast disease. Remember, the symptoms of this disease can also be the warning signs for more dangerous ailments, so be sure you consult with your doctor.
Home Remedies from the Cupboard
Drinks. Coffee, tea, soft drinks, wine, and beer all contain methylxanthines -- chemicals that trigger the body to increase production of stress hormones. Such hormones are linked to breast lumps and tenderness. Studies have shown that reducing or eliminating such liquids from the diet can diminish symptoms in up to 80 percent of women.
Home Remedies from the Freezer
Ice compresses. Ice packs may be a bit of a shock to delicate breasts, but a cold compress can give breasts some relief from tenderness and inflammation. To make this initially shocking but ultimately soothing remedy, fill a plastic, reclosable bag with crushed ice, or use a bag of frozen peas and wrap in a towel. Lie down and place on the sore breast(s) for ten minutes. Note: Some women find alternating heat and cold, applying heat first for 30 minutes then cold for 10 minutes, helps minimize pain.
Home Remedies from the Refrigerator
Fish. The best fish for female health include those high in the omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, trout, and mackerel. These fish are also high in iodine, a deficiency of which may be a factor in the development of breast lumps. Eating moderate amounts of fish may help prevent lumps.
Meats. Cut back on meat consumption. Before heading to the butcher's block, cows, chicken, and other livestock are often pumped full of hormones. Your body doesn't need the additional influx, especially during the hormone high time of your period. If meat needs to be on the menu, purchase hormone-free meats and poultry at a health food store.
Vegetables. Diuretics help flush excess fluids from the body and reduce breast swelling. Unfortunately, many store-bought diuretics can also deplete your potassium reserves, unbalance your electrolyte count, and interfere with glucose production. Turn to natural diuretics instead. Parsley, cucumbers, and cabbage are healthy for you and will keep you naturally flushed.
Whole-grain foods. Increasing your intake of fiber can help control the hormonal fluctuations behind fibrocystic breast disease. Eat whole-wheat bread, brown rice, beans, and fruits.
