Evidence supporting the use of: Gamma Linolenic Acid
For the body system: Breasts

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Table of Contents

Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) is an omega-6 fatty acid found in oils such as evening primrose, borage, and black currant seed oils. Its use in supporting the breast body system, particularly for breast pain (mastalgia), has been the subject of scientific evaluation. Several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses have investigated the efficacy of GLA in treating cyclical mastalgia. While some studies have reported a moderate reduction in breast pain compared to placebo, others have found little to no significant benefit. The most commonly cited mechanism is that GLA may correct a relative deficiency in essential fatty acids or modulate inflammatory pathways involved in breast tissue sensitivity. Clinical guidelines, such as those from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), mention evening primrose oil (a source of GLA) as a possible option for mastalgia, although they note the evidence is limited and inconsistent.

There is no strong evidence supporting GLA for other aspects of breast health, such as breast cancer prevention or general breast tissue support. The evidence base is modest, and while GLA is sometimes recommended for breast pain, its use is not universally endorsed by medical authorities. Overall, the support for GLA in the context of breast health is primarily limited to cyclical mastalgia, and even here, the scientific evidence is mixed and not robust.

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