It has been a great revelation that the various cruciferous vegetables are, in fact, a great source of a very important health supplement ingredient known to promote hormonal balance and prevent various health conditions associated with imbalances of bodily hormones. This compound is known as 3,3′-Diindolylmethane or DIM. For several decades, experts have been conducting studies to discover what DIM does in the human body, as well as the potential benefits it may produce when used in regular doses. Today, it has been established in various quantitative researches that the compound is useful not only in maintaining balance among various reproductive hormones but it may also help fight off cancer and other diseases. Generally, the use of DIM is beneficial to individual users.
What is 3,3′-Diindolylmethane?
The health supplement compound 3,3′-Diindolylmethane is not necessary produced naturally in the human body. However, when introduced in the body through intake of vegetables known to be a good source of it, 3,3′-Diindolylmethane is believed to provide various health benefits. Certain studies have found that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane or DIM has similar effects as that of estrogen in the body. Hence, lowered levels of estrogen, as well as the symptoms and conditions associated with low estrogen, may be treated and prevented with 3,3′-Diindolylmethane supplementation. While it is highly recommended for use among women, especially those who are at risk of developing hormonal imbalances, the compound may be used by all individuals in general.
DIM estrogen
Estrogen is the prime female hormone which is responsible in regulating the overall female reproductive system, including development of female secondary sex characteristics. Aside from its function in reproduction, it is also found that estrogen plays a significant role in heart and blood vessel function, as well as in the maintenance of musculoskeletal health. The development of mucous membranes in hollow organs of the body is also influenced by estrogen.
According to researches, Diindolylmethane works almost similarly as estrogen. Hence, it can be inferred that DIM may also work in improving reproductive system function, as well as that of cardiovascular and musculoskeletal works.
DIM Benefits
DIM supplements are very popular in today’s market as they are shown to enhance health and wellness in various ways. The health benefits of using Diindolylmethane include the following:
- It may treat pre-menstrual symptoms or PMS
According to gynecological physicians, PMS is primarily associated with severe hormonal imbalances immediately prior to a menstrual period. Hence, the use of compounds like 3,3′-Diindolylmethane, which are proven to promote hormonal balance, may help prevent development of pre-menstrual symptoms.
- It may aid in weight loss
In another study, it was suggested that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane may even promote weight loss. This finding, however, is still subject of further qualitative researches as the finding is based only in quantitative research. Some experts say, however, that since Diindolylmethane plays a role in musculoskeletal health, it may also have effects in metabolism.
- It may reduce swelling
Swelling or inflammation secondary to trauma or an injurious event may be controlled with 3,3′-Diindolylmethane, as shown in health studies. This being the case, it is well enough that it may be included in the formulation of anti-inflammatory medications.
DIM Supplement for men
While it is suggestive that 3,3′-Diindolylmethane is mostly beneficial for women, it was found in several recent studies that the compound may also be used by men for specific health benefits.
According to researches, Diindolylmethane also works by preventing the conversion of testosterone into estrogen among males. Hence, it can be used in relatively increasing testosterone levels, rather than reducing it. It may also prevent acne in men by stopping non-beneficial androgen from entering certain receptors which are known to cause acne.
How long does DIM work in the body?
Since DIM Supplements are usually taken orally, it may take a few hours before it may manifest its health effects, depending on the metabolic rate of every individual. One dose of DIM is not, as well, sufficient to establish therapeutic effects. Depending on what is intended to be treated, the physicians may recommend several days to weeks for a patient to be on DIM supplement therapy.
DIM side effects
Like all other health supplement ingredients which are shown to be safe and effective within recommended doses, there are almost no side effects of using 3,3′-Diindolylmethane. However, some users have reported mild digestive symptoms including nausea and vomiting. Some users have also experienced headaches, but these symptoms generally disappear after a few doses.
Conclusion
There are many DIM supplement reviews available online which can provide information on how 3,3′-Diindolylmethane works and why it should be taken by individual users. In this DIM review, the conclusion bears that the compound is essentially useful for everyone, men or women. However, high doses of the compound for long periods of time is not recommended as long-term effects of 3,3′-Diindolylmethane supplementation are not yet known.
