Diindolylmethane, also known as DIM, is a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, kale and cauliflower. DIM is a member of a family of compounds called indoles and is the most biologically active indole known. This phytonutrient has been shown to prevent certain forms of cancer and also assists with estrogen metabolism in ways that may benefit symptoms and health problems associated with menopause.
Estrogen Breakdown
Diindolylmethane works by promoting healthy breakdown of estrogen, minimizing cancer-causing estrogen byproducts that accumulate when your body is inefficient at metabolizing estrogen, according to Mary Shomon, author of the book "The Menopause Thyroid Solution: Overcome Menopause by Solving Your Hidden Thyroid Problems." If your body is sluggish at disposing of estrogen, you might experience breast pain or tenderness, ovarian cysts or fibroid tumors. DIM's estrogen-metabolizing effects might also help you avoid menopausal weight gain. More efficient estrogen metabolism translates to increased fat burning and decreased fat storage.
Xenoestrogens
DIM helps rid your body of dangerous estrogens, known as xenoestrogens, found in environmental pollutants, such as pesticides and synthetic hormones. Your risk for breast, uterine and cervical cancer decreases when you eat vegetables that contain DIM or take DIM supplements, according to naturopath Linda Page, author of "Linda Page's Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone." If you take hormone replacement therapy, DIM can help your body safely metabolize any excess estrogen from a dose that is too high or not properly calibrated for your individual needs. DIM can also decrease moodiness associated with menopause.
Cancer
A study published in the July 2011 issue of the journal "Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry" found that DIM inhibited breast cancer. In the tissue culture study of human breast cancer cells, DIM inhibited both estrogen receptor positive and estrogen receptor negative cells. Researchers at the Hackensack University Medical Center in New Jersey reported that DIM inhibits cervical cell dysplasia and improves immune response in laboratory animals. The study was published in the November 2009 issue of the journal "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention." Further studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results in humans.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes respond well to supplementation with DIM in some women, according to nutritionist Jonny Bowden, author of "The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth: The Surprising, Unbiased Truth About What Treatments Work and Why." DIM is commonly taken in doses of 100 mg to 200 mg. Consult your doctor for guidance and supervision in the safe use of DIM.
References
- "The Menopause Thyroid Solution: Overcome Menopause by Solving Your Hidden ..."; Mary J. Shomon; 2009
- "Linda Page's Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone"; Linda Page; 2004
- "Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry"; 3,3'-diindolylmethane Inhibits Breast Cancer Cell Growth Via Mir-21-mediated Cdc25a Degradation; Y. Jin, et al.; July 2011
- "Cancer, Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention"; Diindolylmethane Inhibits Cervical Dysplasia, Alters Estrogen Metabolism, and Enhances Immune Response in the K14-hpv16 Transgenic Mouse Model; D. Sepkovic, et al.; November 2009
- "The Most Effective Natural Cures on Earth: The Surprising, Unbiased Truth ..."; Jonny Bowden; 2011
