DIM (Diindolylmethane)

Diindolylmethane is formed in the body from plant substances contained in “cruciferous” vegetables such as cabbage, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, and broccoli. Scientists think these vegetables may help to protect the body against cancer because they contain diindolylmethane and a related chemical called indole-3-carbinol.

Diindolylmethane is used for preventing breast, uterine, and colorectal cancer. It is also used to prevent an enlarged prostate (benign prostatic hypertrophy, BPH) and treat premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

How does it work?

Diindolylmethane might act like estrogen in the body, but there is evidence that under certain circumstances it might also block estrogen effects.

Preventing prostate enlargement (benign prostatic hypertrophy, BPH).
Treating premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

The appropriate dose of diindolylmethane depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for diindolylmethane.

Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

Diindolylmethane is SAFE when consumed in the small amounts found in foods. A typical diet supplies 2-24 mg of diindolylmethane. It is SAFE for most people when taken by mouth short-term for medicinal purposes.

Taking larger doses of diindolylmethane is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Taking 600 mg of diindolylmethane daily has been reported to lower sodium levels in some people.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Diindolylmethane is SAFE when consumed in the small amounts found in foods. But don't take larger amounts. Not enough is known about the safety of larger amounts during pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Children: Diindolylmethane is SAFE when consumed in the small amounts found in foods. But don't give children larger amounts. Not enough is known about the safety of larger amounts of diindolylmethane when given to children.

Hormone-sensitive conditions such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids: Diindolylmethane might act like estrogen, so there is some concern that it might make hormone-sensitive conditions worse. These conditions include breast, uterine, and ovarian cancer; endometriosis; and uterine fibroids. However, developing research also suggests that diindolylmethane might work against estrogen and could possibly be protective against hormone-dependent cancers. But stay on the safe side. Until more is known, don't use diindolylmethane if you have a hormone-sensitive condition.