Breast cancer is the second most common cancer of American women, affecting one in eight women, according to Medline Plus. Risk factors include certain genes that predispose a woman to breast cancer, being overweight, using hormone replacement or taking birth control pills or drinking alcohol. For women at risk for breast cancer or for breast cancer survivors, consuming foods rich in diindolylmethane, or taking diindolylmethane supplements, may be very helpful in preventing the disease. Consult your doctor to determine if this approach is advisable for you.
Diindolylmethane
Diindolylmethane, or DIM, is a metabolite of indole-3-carbinol, a natural compound found in certain foods. DIM has several effects on cancer cells, according to Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. It blocks division of many different types of malignant cells and even causes some of these cells to die. It may also prevent malignant cells from invading healthy tissue and it may slow or prevent growth of blood vessels in tumors. DIM may also act specifically against breast cancer cells, blocking the positive effect of estrogen on some cancers and causing it to be deactivated and excreted.
The Evidence
Several investigators have shown that DIM destroys several types of cancer cells. A study led by urologist K. Chinnakannu, M.D., published in the April 2009 "Journal of Cell Physiology" reported growth arrest and death of prostate cancer cells cultured with DIM.
DIM and Estrogen
The female hormone estrogen supports growth of some breast cancers. DIM may help suppress the positive effect of estrogen on these cancers, either by blocking its effect on cancer cells or by lessening estrogen levels in women at risk for cancer. In a pilot study of women subjects with a past history of breast cancer, DIM increased excretion of an inactive form of estrogen in subjects who took DIM, compared to those who consumed a placebo. These are promising results, although more extensive study is still needed.
Sources and Recommendations
Natural food sources of DIM include green vegetables such as mustard greens, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower. DIM supplements are also available from health food stores. These are generally considered safe, although DIM may interact with certain prescription drugs. Do not take DIM supplements if you are pregnant or breastfeeding and consult your doctor to determine if adding DIM to your regimen is appropriate for you.
References
- Medline Plus: Breast Cancer
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Diindolylmethant
- Diindolylmethane (DIM) Information Resource Center: Clinical Applications and Research
- PubMed.gov: "Cell Cycle-dependent Effects of 3,3'-diindolylmethane on Proliferation and Apoptosis of Prostate Cancer Cells," Chinnakannu, K. et al. "Journal Cell Physiology," 2009
- Linus Pauling Institute: Indole-3-carbinol
- Pub Med.gov: "Review: Indole-3-carbinol as a Chemoprotective Agent in Breast and Prostate Cancer," Bradlow, H., "In Vivo,", 2008
