Breast cancer is only one of the many breast issues facing women today. Fibrocystic breasts, breast pain that waxes and wanes with the menstrual cycle, as well as suspicious mammograms or thermograms, we women have a lot to be concerned about when it comes to breast health!
One of the ways women can lessen breast pain and lower cancer rates is by limiting several environmental pollutants:
- PAHS (Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons)
Present in:cigarette smoke, air pollution, auto exhaust, diesel fuel, smoked and grilled foods. - PBCs ((Polycholorinated biphenyls)
Banned in the US in 1979, we are still exposed to this through accumulation in rivers and industrial areas, fish and HUMAN BREAST MILK! - BPA (Bishenol A)
Present in plastic and epoxy resins, plastic wrap, plastic bags, storage containers, canned foods. - Dioxin
Produced through chemical processes involving chlorine such as pulp and paper manufacturing, dioxin has now contaminated many food sources such as milk, fish and meat.
So, what can you do? Not eat, breath or sleep (mattresses commonly contain pollutants as well)?
This is a sound, but not practical solution. You can avoid canned foods, know where your food is coming from, adjust some habits and be proactive. For example, use glass containers to store food, avoid canned foods, always bring a reusable bag to the grocery store. When at the grocery store be mindful of where your food came from. Is it organic? Was it imported from Mexico or other places where there are fewer laws and regulations regarding the use of chemicals in agriculture? Is it local, or did it come here from from across the country on a diesel truck? Get involved, support environmental groups.
Keep your liver healthy!. Your liver is responsible for breaking down and excreting toxins. There are specific breast support formulas available to support breast health, endocrine balance (which these chemicals disrupt) and provide antioxidants.
GET HELP!
Acupuncture & Oriental Medicine has a long history of successfully treating breast pain! From cyclical breast pain to cancer related breast issues, you can feel better!
When working with menstrual cycle induced breast pain or cysts I combine dietary therapy with acupuncture (no, the needles do not go in the breasts) and herbal prescriptions. Often, when women get up off the treatment table, their pain is alleviated. Liver support is essential for these individuals, along with herbs that promotes circulation through the breasts and discourage the formation of fibrous tissue. Many women with this problem also find their menstrual cycles also improve. Common side effects of treatment are: a reduction or eradication of PMS, regular menstrual cycles, more energy, better sleep and an increase in well being and quality of life.
Want more information on Oriental medicine and cancer treatment? Check out this post:
Acupuncture & Cancer Treatment
Here are just a couple of studies showing the benefits of acupuncture on breast health and cancer recovery:
Acupuncture in breast diseases. How, when and why?
If you or someone you know is experiencing breast health issues or wants to do all they can to prevent problems, make an appointment so we can talk about specific strategies and breast support formulas. Online Appointment Booking