Have Healthy Estrogen Levels With DIM Supplements
- DIM and Estrogen Receptor Activation. DIM is a compound derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. It has gained attention for its potential anticancer properties, particularly in breast cancer treatment.
- Research indicates physiologically obtainable concentrations of DIM (around 10 μM) activate sthe estrogen receptor α (ERα) pathway in breast cancer cells (such as MCF7 and T47D) even in the absence of 17β-estradiol (E2).T his activation leads to the induction of ERα target genes and an increase in cellular proliferation. Interestingly, DIM’s proliferative effect occurs at concentrations that can be obtained through diet or supplements 1. Therefor DIM regulates sex hormone homeostasis. It helps metabolize estrogen by promoting the conversion of potent forms of estrogen into weaker, less active forms. By doing so, DIM contributes to restoring hormonal equilibrium. Clinical trials have shown that DIM supports healthy estrogen levels and may reduce the risk of estrogen-dependent cancers 23.
- DIM and Breast Pain and Dense Breasts
- DIM supplementation may contribute to reducing breast density in high-risk individuals.
- Lower breast density is associated with a lower risk of breast cancer Ref 5,6.
- Larger randomized studies are needed to further validate these findings.
- Remember:
- DIM is not a standalone solution for estrogen dominance. Other factors play a role, and it’s essential to address overall health and nutrition.
- While DIM is often called the “estrogen buster,” it’s crucial to understand its context and use it wisely Ref 6.
In summary, DIM is a fascinating compound with potential health benefits, especially in the realm of estrogen regulation. As always, consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement.
- Low levels of 3,3′-diindolylmethane activate estrogen receptor α and induce proliferation of breast cancer cells in the absence of estradiol | BMC Cancer | Full Text (biomedcentral.com)
- Anti-Cancer and Other Biological Effects of a Dietary Compound 3,3ʹ-D | NDS (dovepress.com)
- Health Benefits of DIM: How Does It Work? (webmd.com)
- Yerushalmi, R., Bargil, S., Ber, Y., Ozlavo, R., Sivan, T., Rapson, Y., … Caspi, O. (2020). 3,3-Diindolylmethane (DIM): a nutritional intervention and its impact on breast density in healthy BRCA carriers. Carcinogenesis, 41(10), 1395–1401
- Verywell Health: “Density Changes In One Breast Could Be a Cancer Warning Sign.”
- Mayo Clinic: “Do Changes in Breast Density Over Time Influence Breast Cancer Risk?”