General Information
Be aware that gynecomastia is not uncommon among boys during puberty. As many as 75 percent of all males may experience the condition during this time. In the short term, this is normal. However, it could cause a problem if the condition continues beyond puberty. The condition is caused by a major imbalance between the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone estrogen. If estrogen levels are too high and testosterone levels too low, the body assumes itself to be female and begins to respond as such. Each individual's body tissue can respond differently from others within the same age group. In some males, an imbalance of testosterone might not have a major impact. However, in others where their tissue is more prone to respond, high levels of estrogen may trigger unwanted breast growth.
Things to Do to Ward off the Problem
Maintain a healthy weight. Boys whose body mass (weight) is high in relationship to their height are far more prone to gynecomastia. Avoid medications--both over-the-counter and prescription--that could have a negative impact on normal male hormone growth and regulation, such as Tagamet, Pepcid and Prevacid. Some relatively common perscription drugs such as Abilify, Flexeril, Haldol and Thorazine are also thought to do the same. There are many more such drugs (see Resources below). There is some indication that interrupting the cycle of male hormones might be a major factor in gynecomastia, as might the encouragement of estrogen growth. It is also important to stay away from vitamin supplements such as PABA and artificial estrogen products such as Estrovin. Certain other vitamin B supplements seem to encourage breast growth in some elements of the male population. While it is common for small amounts of estrogen to be found in males, those suffering from breast enlargement seem to have estrogen levels that are uncommonly high. Choose foods with good vitamin and mineral content. Not all physicians agree that this will have a large impact on preventing the condition. Nonetheless, many insist that proper nutrition will help restore the body's natural hormonal balance. Discontinue using any product that contains tea tree oil. This includes certain bath products, shampoos, lip balm and skin creams.
Tags: breast growth, estrogen levels, male hormone, more prone, vitamin supplements
