Tender Swollen Breasts? Relief Naturally
August 2, 2009 by Alisa Vitti
Filed under Health
Women’s breast health is intimately connected to diet, digestion, environment, and relationships. If your breasts swell and become painful at certain times of the month, or if you have a history of breast cysts, there are many simple strategies for reducing this inflammation and congestion. Because breast tissue is very sensitive, it can respond rapidly to positive changes.
Our breasts represent our deep connection to feminine energy. We use them to feed and comfort our children. We nurture relationships with friends, family, and partners from the heart below our breasts. How we carry our breasts can represent our pride, or lack of it, in our sexual potency. If you have ongoing struggles with breast health, consider how much time you spend nurturing other people instead of yourself.
Caffeine Connection
Caffeine—especially from coffee—causes water retention and inflammation. Breasts are especially sensitive to this, and sometimes cutting caffeine is all it takes to heal. Wherever you are with your caffeine intake, start stepping down:
* coffee to decaf or green tea (or kukicha twig tea for more roasted flavor)
* green tea to herbal tea
* caffeinated sodas and sports drinks to decaf sodas or flavored seltzers
Mother’s Milk
Milk is a product of cows’ hormonal systems, excreted through their breasts. When we eat dairy, we add animal hormone to our own complexhormonal systems. Side effects can be cramps, PMS, and often, breast trouble.
* Go Organic: To make it worse, many cows are fed bovine growth hormone (rBGH), which gets into the milk, and then into our bodies. If you are going to have dairy, be sure it is organic, hormone-free, and antibiotic-free.
* Digestible Dairy: Try goat cheese, natural whole yogurt, and kefir. These traditional, less processed dairy foods may be more digestible and less disruptive to your body.
* Milk Substitutes: Avoid soy, as it contains phytoestrogens, which can inflame already sensitive breasts. Try rice milk or almond milk.
* Other Mothering: In all animals, milk is baby food, not grown-up food. Consider why it has been important to you to have milk and dairy in your diet. What could you do instead to feel comforted and nurtured? Bubble baths? Vacation? Support from friends and family?
Do the Detox
Studies show links between breast cancer and both chronic constipation and environmental toxins. A seasonal fall detox to improve digestion and remove toxins is excellent for preserving breast health. LSW is committed to helping you understand the amazing natural healing options that are available to you, so that you can make knowledgeable, powerful choices about how to care for your body and your menstrual and sexual health.
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