Dozens of common foods contain compounds that influence human hormones. In theory, large amounts of hormone-affecting foods may influence the size, shape and firmness of human breasts. While many women may view a breast-enhancing diet as a promising alternative to cosmetic surgery, health-care providers note that there is no compelling scientific evidence to support the efficacy of this technique. Women who are interested in breast-enhancing diets should consult a health-care provider before making any radical dietary adjustments.
Theories
No clinical trials have concluded that breast-enhancing diets are truly effective. In theory, they may work by simulating the hormonal conditions associated with pregnancy and lactation. The National Institutes of Health reports that natural licorice, a food frequently included in breast-enhancing diets, appears to cause high levels of estrogen and prolactin in some women. These two hormones are both associated with breast milk enlargement because they are involved in pregnancy, childbirth and lactation. Other hormone-affecting foods may have similar effects.
Effects
Phytoestrogens--plant-based hormones that are chemically similar to estrogen-- are core components of a breast-enhancing diet. Soy products like tofu contain respectable quantities of genistein and other isoflavones, which, according to the National Institutes of Health, may elevate human estrogen levels. Animal products like eggs, meat and dairy contain natural hormones that are chemically identical to those found in the human body; these may trigger the hormonal responses associated with breast enhancement. Estrogen-free breast-enlarging foods like fenugreek appear to work by affecting levels of dopamine and oxytocin, which are involved in lactation.
History
Breast-enhancing diets have existed for millennia. In antiquity, women turned to estrogenic and breast-stimulating foods to improve breast milk production after childbirth. A 1980 study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" reported that fennel and anise-- two foods now used as cosmetic breast enhancers-- have historically been viewed as breast milk stimulants. Modern science has isolated compounds in these foods that may contribute to breast development and other hormone-related effects.
Considerations
Women exploring breast-enhancing diets should consider the possible risks and side effects associated with hormone-affecting foods. The National Institutes of Health note that soy is an excellent source of dietary protein and that moderate amounts of licorice are perfectly safe. However, people who choose a breast-enhancing diet should take care to include a wide variety of acceptable foods in the diet. Estrogenic foods should not overshadow the need for a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Warning
Mayo Clinic physician Dr. Sandhya Pruthi warns that hormone-affecting botanical compounds may be associated with serious risks and side effects. A diet containing significant amounts of estrogen may interact unpredictably with hormone replacement therapy, oral contraceptives and other hormone-affecting drugs. Additionally, many of these foods could theoretically stimulate the growth of cancerous breast cells. Women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers should avoid breast-enhancing diets.
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