KEE@FSWMAG.COM
I AM NOT AN AUTHORITY ON BOOBS BUT SINCE I LIKE LOOKING AT PLUNGING NECKLINES AKA CLEAVAGES, I THINK EVERY WOMAN SHOULD KNOW WHAT MAKES HER BREASTS TICK.

Breast Facts Every Woman Must Know How well do you know your ‘twins’? Breasts are among the most visible femininity symbols of a woman. We grow up together with them; spending the awkward puberty period when you wish they would just disappear, up to now where we have mastered the tricks to make them look their best.  Seeing the special relationship we have with the ‘twins’, it is only normal that we spend hours on bra shopping, take them for regular mammogram, and go to the gym so they won’t look saggy. What we may not realise, however, is that our breasts are very sensitive to what we eat and our daily habits – even our sleeping position! “Breasts are unusually vulnerable to sensations and cues in our environment. They evolved this way on purpose,” explains science writer Florence Williams, author of the book Breasts: A Natural and Unnatural History. Let’s get to know what the twins like and loathe to ensure their everyday welfare! 1. Too much estrogen in them spells disaster Our breasts have really strong estrogen receptors – the feminine hormone that impacts our reproductive system, physical appearance, and bone health among others. However, too much of estrogen could lead to health problems for you and your future daughter. A pregnant mother’s hyper-exposure to estrogen could significantly increase her daughter’s breast cancer risks. What you can do: cut down on canned food and drinks, because most of them are loaded with bisphenol A, which could trigger breast cancer and heart diseases. 2. They hate bounces The nagging pain you feel while running without proper sports bra is your breast’s way of saying bounces are not good for them. Jogging, aerobics, and fast walking are only a few activities which cause your twins to bounce. What you can do: never forget that bra functions as protector of our twins, more than merely as fashion items. Invest in good and comfortable sports bra. Take time to find the brand and type that suits you best. 3. Sleep on your side, please! Myth: breasts will deflate if you sleep facedown. However, if you constantly sleep facedown for a long period of time – the twins could get misshapen. What you can do: it is best to sleep on your side, with a thin pillow supporting your breasts. 4. Know how to care for their skin You must have noticed that when you sweat a lot, pimples and blackheads can be found around your breast. The area above and below your breasts are loaded with oil glands, and the bigger your breast size is, the more sweat collects there. Such condition makes the perfect environment for bacteria that causes blemishes. What you can do: To get ready for the blazing hot Malaysian sun, it is best to always apply absorbent powder or salicyl acid around your breasts every morning. Besides, make sure you change your bra frequently – especially after a workout session. 5. Smokers tend to have saggier boobs than non-smokers The popular belief of breastfeeding causes sagging breast is proven not true; as shown by the study conducted at the University of Kentucky (source: MSNBC). The study reveals that there are three major causes of breast sagging (ptosis): smoking, age, and the number of pregnancies. Cigarette breaks down skin protein called elastin, which is responsible in supporting the breasts and maintaining skin elasticity. What you can do: You know what to do, ladies. In fact, the study results should act as your extra motivation to quit smoking.