Diindolylmethane (DIM)

What Is Diindolylmethane (DIM)?

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound derived from the compound indole-3-carbinol[1]. It is produced when the body digests cruciferous vegetables such as kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and spinach. As well as obtaining DIM from these foods, you can also take it in the form of a nutritional supplement.

Diindolylmethane Benefits and Uses

DIM supports a healthy metabolism of estrogen, and helps to keep the hormone relatively balanced by preventing sudden increases or decreases. In small amounts, it can inhibit the conversion of testosterone to estrogen by preventing the production of the enzyme aromatase[2]. It can also convert strong forms of estrogen into less potent forms. However, if you are using a DIM supplement, you should be aware that taking too high a dose can have a reverse effect and induce the production of the aromatase enzyme, which decreases estrogen synthesis.

DIM can be beneficial for men who practice fitness training, and is a popular supplement for body builders. Because of its ability to metabolize excess estrogen, which can help to increase muscle mass, DIM is also a valuable aide in supporting weight loss. Through the elimination of excess estrogen, DIM can also improve testosterone functions. The recommended daily intake for DIM is 100 mg per day.

Diindolylmethane Side Effects

DIM is generally considered safe, though more research is necessary to fully determine the level of its toxicity. There is insufficient information regarding the safety of DIM during pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Taking large doses of DIM (over 600 mg daily) is reported to cause lower than normal sodium levels in some people[3]. Because DIM may, in some cases, act like estrogen, there is some concern that it may exacerbate hormone-sensitive conditions such as ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, and breast cancer.

DIM may increase how quickly some medications are broken down by the liver. If you are taking medications that are altered by the liver, this can decrease their effectivity. You should discuss this with your healthcare provider before taking DIM.

DIM Overdose

There is little available information about DIM overdoses. One study is available, which details a female who was taking high daily doses of DIM for the treatment of facial acne. After a period of two months, the individual began to experience blurred vision and headaches. She was diagnosed with central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR), a disease which causes fluid to build up behind the retina. She was advised to discontinue taking DIM. Her condition began to improve within two weeks, and normal vision had resumed after 8 weeks[4]. If you are experiencing headaches or blurred vision while taking DIM, seek medical advice as soon as possible.

How to Buy Diindolylmethane

DIM is a great choice for those looking for a boost in their workouts, as well as assisting in improving overall men’s health and women’s health. You can purchase a high-quality DIM supplement from DrFormulas™.  DrFormulas™ DIM Plus BioPerine Estrogen Metabolism for Men & Women contains a two-month supply of once-daily doses of DIM. This supplement, which contains no soy or gluten and is made with veggie capsules, helps support hormone balance and healthy menopause for women. It is also beneficial for men who are bodybuilding and trying to maintain a healthy weight. Start taking this specially formulated DIM supplement today.

[1] http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/dietary-factors/phytochemicals/indole-3-carbinol

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3048776/

[3] https://www.rxlist.com/diindolylmethane-page2/supplements.htm#SafetyConcerns

[4] https://www.healio.com/ophthalmology/journals/osli/2014-11-45-6/%7Be39ebf30-4a8d-4e8c-bc86-092953e6b9f1%7D/bilateral-central-serous-chorioretinopathy-associated-with-estrogen-modulator-diindolylmethane