Let’s face it: boobs and alcohol don’t mix. In fact, for some time now, the use of alcohol has been statistically linked to a higher risk of breast cancer and that risk goes up with every drink you take. For example, those of us who drink two to five drinks a day have about 1 ½ times the risk of those who abstain. One drink a day may raise risk slightly (4%) with risk rising in relation to quantity and frequency.

The explanation for this may differ, depending on whom you ask. We know for sure that alcohol increases circulating estrogen levels. We also know for sure that it’s taxing for your liver to process the stuff. That’s because alcohol is broken down into a compound called acetaldehyde, a poison closely related to formaldehyde. Given all the other toxins our bodies have to deal with on a daily basis, that just adds to our load.

If you feel you can’t live without your vino, beer or black Russian, here are some things to think about to make it a safer experience for you and your breasts:

Choose red wine over other alcoholic beverages as it contains healthful antioxidants known as polyphenols, which protect cells from oxidative stress and can help compensate for some of alcohol’s free radical damage.

Keep your liver happy by using detoxification strategies such as rebounding, massage, and sauna. Liver loving herbs such as milk thistle, dandelion root, and artichoke leaf can be helpful too.

Do not drink and take drugs at the same time, especially avoiding acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Tylenol).  This is double trouble for your liver and in rare cases even occasional use of this dynamic duo (alcohol and acetaminophen) has actually caused acute liver failure.

Hydrate fully and devotedly with pure water and herbal teas to keep the bad stuff moving through and out.  8 glasses/cups a day is worth aiming for.

Eat plenty of cruciferous vegetables (lightly steamed is best) to help metabolize your estrogen in a healthful way.

In a nutshell, think before you drink!

Check out more nutritional strategies for reducing your risk of breast cancer occurrence or recurrence in Helayne’s new book, THE WHOLE FOOD GUIDE TO BREAST CANCER RISK REDUCTION, available at www.wholefoodguideforbreastcancer.com

Thank you, Dr. Waldman, for your insight. If this article resonates with you, it may be time to detox for your hormonal health. This will give your liver a much-needed vacation. You can find our detox programs here.

We’re starting the group Hormone Reset Detox on Monday, September 9th, 2019. We want to help you on your journey by providing the support you deserve with other detoxers on their own journey to hormonal health. Join the Hormone Reset Detox here.