Breast Health the Natural Way

January 1, 2001
Mitchell, a medical writer, and Gordon, a family physician who practices homeopathy, argue that about 10% of breast cancer is related to heredity and genes; the vast majority, they emphasize, stems from lifestyle and environmental factors. They shore up their argument with compelling evidence, such as the link between exercise and decreased incidence of breast cancer and the perils of alcohol and fat: "This means you can do a lot, every day of your life, to help prevent this disease and to take control of your breast health overall." But cancer alone is not the focus of this book; rather, the authors look at the total picture of maintaining breast health and address women's concerns about breast pain, tenderness, nipple discharge, breast-feeding and fibrocystic breast disease ("a terrible misnomer"), as well as what women, at any age, can do to prevent (or prevent recurrence of) breast cancer (special consideration is given to women who have undergone chemotherapy or radiation). Presenting a five-step plan (diet, natural supplements, making informed decisions about hormone replacement therapy, caring for the mind-body connection and breast screening), Mitchell and Gordon offer women an informed opportunity to "make friends with their body," with suggestions that include the benefits of soy and ways to cope with environmental toxins. With compassion and precision, Mitchell and Gordon provide a valuable and hopeful sourcebook that will inspire readers to become active participants in determining their own breast health.

January 1, 2001
Medical writer Mitchell (The Broccoli Sprouts Breakthrough) and classical homeopath Gordon range widely in this natural approach to breast care, covering everything from healthy breasts to nutrition, breast screening, and cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. The authors address the emotional and psychological impact of society's perceptions of breasts as well as the physiological changes that come with pregnancy, breastfeeding, and disease. The main thrust is the Five-Step Program for Breast Health, which focuses on how the food we eat helps maintain healthy breasts. They emphasize the advantages of whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and soy products and detail how to use natural supplements and herbal remedies to complement conventional therapy. There are also guidelines for deciding whether or not to take hormones, such as birth control pills, fertility drugs, and hormone-replacement therapy. Monthly self-examinations, yearly physician visits, regular mammograms, and regular exercise are all encouraged. Offering good information in a clear format, this book effectively covers the homeopathic approach to breast care but is less radical than some books on the topic, seeing it as a complement rather than an alternative to traditional care.--Jodith Janes, Cleveland Clinic Foundation

Copyright 2001 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.