Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (211 page)
Read Gillian McKeith's Food Bible Online
Authors: Gillian McKeith
Oily fish, which contain protective omega-3 fats.
Pumpkin seeds, rich in zinc.
AVOID
High blood pressure can increase the risk of developing macular degeneration. Reducing caffeine, saturated fats, and alcohol are all recommended.
HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS
Taurine.
Luteine, lycopene, and xeaxanthin.
Ginkgo.
Bilberry.
FIBROCYSTIC BREAST DISEASE
Fibrocystic Breast disease (FBD) is characterized by small lumps on the breasts under the skin. The lumps can easily move and may change in size. They are not usually considered to be precursors to cancer. FBD is extremely common in menstruating women. The breasts may feel more tender and lumpy prior to menstruation. FBD can be diagnosed by a doctor, who will insert a needle into a lump. If the lump contains fluid it is a cyst and FBD is diagnosed.
CAUSES MAY INCLUDE
Excess estrogen relative to progesterone.
A diet high in sugar and refined foods with high levels of insulin.
Underactive thyroid or iodine deficiency.
Action plan
If you discover any kind of lump in your breast, you must see your GP immediately. Fibrocystic breasts can indicate that liver function is compromised. Usually the liver breaks down and eliminates estrogen from the body, but if the liver is strugglng with its load then a condition of estrogen dominance can occur. This can lead to fibrocystic breasts. Our aim, therefore, is to support the liver and improve hormone balance to help give the body a chance to break down the cysts.
EAT/DRINK
Dandelion tea daily to relieve water retention and support liver function.
Oily fish, shelled hemp, flax, pumpkin, and sunflower seeds, plus the cold-pressed oils of these seeds are all good sources of essential fats for their beneficial effect on hormones. These also contain vitamin E, an important antioxidant and breast tissue protector.
Fresh fruits and vegetables for their cleansing effects.
Sea vegetables such as kelp, nori, arame, and dulse. These are high in iodine needed for ovarian and thyroid function.
AVOID
Sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, and caffeine. These can all increase blood sugar and insulin levels. Caffeine in particular has been implicated in FBD.
Salt to reduce fluid retention. This means avoiding processed and packaged foods as these generally contain salt to increase their shelf life and as a cheap form of flavoring.
Dairy products, nonorganic meat, poultry and eggs, heated or refined vegetable oils, and fried or fatty foods. These can all interfere with hormone balance.
HERBS AND SUPPLEMENTS
Take evening primrose oil, which contains essential fats needed for hormone balance.