Ingredient Repository · Ingredient

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Ingredient

Diindolylmethane (DIM)

A cruciferous phytonutrient metabolite that supports healthy estrogen metabolism and hormonal balance.

What it is

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a bioactive indole compound formed naturally during the gastric acid condensation of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a phytochemical abundant in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. In dietary supplements, pure crystalline DIM or microencapsulated DIM complexes are utilized to ensure uniform dosage and stability. DIM selectively modulates cytochrome P450 enzymes involved in hepatic steroid hydroxylation.

Also known as: 3,3'-Diindolylmethane

What it does

  • Promotes healthy estrogen clearance by favoring 2-hydroxyestrone metabolite production over 16-hydroxyestrone.
  • Supports cellular antioxidant defenses and hormone-sensitive tissue wellness.
  • Assists in maintaining balanced hormonal activity in both women and men.

Amplified by probiotics

While gastric acid catalyzes the conversion of dietary glucobrassicin to DIM, the gut microbiota exerts pivotal control over subsequent hepatic estrogen recirculation via the gut-hormone axis. Probiotic species maintain balanced microbial beta-glucuronidase enzyme activity in the intestinal lumen, preventing the excessive deconjugation and reabsorption of excreted estrogen metabolites (the estrobolome effect). Concurrently, probiotic production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) preserves enterocyte tight junctions and decreases intestinal inflammation. By optimizing mucosal permeability and epithelial uptake mechanisms, probiotic co-administration enhances DIM intestinal transport and supports balanced systemic estrogen detoxification.

Typical dose

100–300 mg/day

The evidence

Evidence: moderate

Randomized double-blind clinical trials demonstrate that oral DIM supplementation significantly increases urinary 2-hydroxyestrone levels relative to 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone in postmenopausal women, reflecting favorable estrogen metabolism shifts (Dalessandri 2004, Nutr Cancer). Clinical pharmacokinetic studies confirm that bioavailable DIM preparations consistently alter systemic steroid metabolite profiles in humans (Castañeda-González 2022, Nutr Cancer).

  1. Castañeda-González LM, et al. Effectiveness of 3,3'-Diindolylmethane Supplements on Increasing Urinary 2/16α-Hydroxyestrone Ratio in Women: A Systematic Review. Nutr Cancer. 2022;74(9):3100-3110. PubMed ↗
  2. Dalessandri KM, et al. Pilot study: effect of 3,3'-diindolylmethane supplements on hormone metabolites in postmenopausal women with a history of early-stage breast cancer. Nutr Cancer. 2004;50(2):161-167. PubMed ↗

Safety & who should check first

Well tolerated at standard dietary supplement dosages; harmless dark urine coloration may occur due to metabolite excretion. Consult a physician if taking hormone therapies; avoid during pregnancy.