Gynecomastia, also called man boobs, is a condition in which the breasts of male infants, boys at puberty and males at older age increase in size. This is not a serious condition unless the symptoms produce severity. However, men usually experience pain and tenderness in their breasts which embarrasses them. In gynecomastia one or both breasts develop extra tissue around the nipples. When the increase is in both breasts the appearance is usually uneven.
Hormonal imbalance is the prime culprit for this condition. Usually, men have significantly high testosterone levels which keep the estrogen level low. However, when estrogen level increases it favors the development of breast tissue in men. In obesity, being overweight increases the level of estrogen.
– In newborn baby, estrogen enters the body of an infant via placenta. This is a temporary case and resolves within 2-3 weeks.
– In puberty, teenagers have fluctuating hormone levels. When testosterone drops, estrogen level increases causing the development of breast tissue. When testosterone level reaches the original level the condition of breast stabilizes. Gynecomastia at the age of puberty is normal. This does not require treatment. It resolves within 6 months to 2 years.
– In men of older age, testosterone levels drop significantly and irreversibly. More estrogen is produced resulting in more breast tissue. When the age is coupled with obesity, gynecomastia accelerates. In the age group of 50-70, the prevalence of gynecomastia is at its peak. 1 in every 4 men has gynecomastia.
How to fix gynecomastia without surgery?
Gynecomastia is generally a non-serious condition. It neither predicts breast cancer nor is it associated with cancer. Pain and tenderness in one or both breasts can make males anxious and self-conscious. The persistence of gynecomastia instills a lack of confidence and self-esteem in males. Typically sufferers of Gynecomastia doubt their capabilities and can become gravely anxious.
Medical practitioners believe the treatment of gynecomastia lies in surgery. However, surgery can produce anxiety and fear. If you are not comfortable with surgery there are some more options you can avail.
In some cases, natural remedies, herbal medicines and lifestyle changes treat gynecomastia successfully. Here are the top 4 things you can try to fix your gynecomastia.
Make dietary changes
Diet has immense influence over the health of your breasts. Since the prime cause of gynecomastia is hormonal imbalance, therefore, make sure your diet has sufficient amount of iodine. Foods like fish, dairy products, grains and seaweed are rich in iodine. You can add any of these in your routine meals. Iodine is necessary to keep the thyroid hormones functioning normally. Thyroid hormones influence testosterone level in a male body.
Moreover, maintain a healthy and balanced diet. If you are weight and figure conscious and choosing a calorie-restricted diet over a diet full of calories you are contributing to dropping your testosterone level. When testosterone level drops gynecomastia occurs. Therefore, have meals which all together give you at least 2500 calories each day. Consume meals that increase your testosterone level. These foods include ginger, garlic, fish, shellfish, cruciferous vegetables, onions and olive oil.
Other than these your diet must contain fruits, vegetables, legumes and whole grains.
Say NO to alcohol and drugs
If you are suffering Gynecomastia you should cut down your alcohol intake to a bare minimum. Alcohol favors hormonal imbalance. It increases oxidative stress, cell damage and promotes low testosterone. It is best to stop drinking at once but if you can’t resist the urge to have some then cut it down to 1-2 small drinks a day.
Not only alcohol but illegal drugs contribute to increasing the glandular breast tissue. Heroin, marijuana, steroids and amphetamines are potentially dangerous drugs which create puffy nipples, large areolas and bigger breasts.
Lose weight
Obesity is another prime cause of gynecomastia. According to a research study held in 2017, obese men have high estrogen level and low testosterone level. This indicates the exclusive link between obesity and gynecomastia. Those men who have a BMI exceeding 25 kg/m are prone to develop gynecomastia. There is around an 80% chance!
Obese individuals must maintain a healthy and balanced diet after consulting a certified nutritionist or dietician. Moreover, it is necessary to exercise for at least 2-3 hours every week. The most effective exercise is an aerobic exercise which helps to shed weight and reduce gynecomastia.
Avoid products that boost estrogen level
High estrogen level and low testosterone level causes gynecomastia. It is necessary to reduce the level of estrogen in your body. Therefore, avoid consuming foods which increase estrogen level. Soy products, split peas, pinto beans, lima beans, alfalfa and clover sprouts increase estrogen in your body hence must be avoided at all costs. Avoid lavender oil and tea tree oil in any form. Check your lotions, creams and other grooming products before use.
If you try the above and are still experiencing Gynecomastia, and suffering the pain and negative mental effects the condition can instill, then maybe it is time to consider surgery. Surgery is safe and effective when performed by an experienced doctor. Check out my full guide to Gynecomastia surgery for more information.