Vitamins & Nutritional Supplements for Fibrocystic Breast Disease

In double-blind research, evening primrose oil (EPO) has reduced symptoms of FBD, though only slightly. One group of researchers reported that EPO normalizes blood levels of fatty acids in women with FBD. However, even these scientists had difficulty linking the improvement in lab tests with an actual reduction in symptoms. Nonetheless, most reports continue to show at least some reduction in symptoms resulting from EPO supplementation. Based on this research, many doctors recommend a trial of 3 grams per day of EPO for at least six months to alleviate symptoms of FBD.

While several studies report that 200–600 IU of vitamin E per day, taken for several months, reduces symptoms of FBD, most double-blind trials have found that vitamin E does not relieve FBD symptoms. Nonetheless, many women take 400 IU of vitamin E for three months to see if it helps.

As with vitamin E, the effectiveness of vitamin B6 remains uncertain. Some, but not all, studies find that B6 supplementation reduces symptoms. Since vitamin B6 supplementation is effective for relieving the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), in addition to breast tenderness, women should discuss the use of vitamin B6 with their healthcare provider.

Some doctors use iodine to treat FBD symptoms. In animals, iodine deficiency can cause the equivalent of FBD. What appears to be the most effective form—diatomic iodine —is not readily available, however. Some people are sensitive to iodine and high amounts can interfere with thyroid function. Therefore, supplemental iodine should only be taken with the guidance of a healthcare practitioner...