What Are the Benefits of Diindolylmethane?

Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound found in many cruciferous vegetables. The curative properties of vegetables such as broccoli and cauliflower have been recognized for centuries, but today's medicine has been able to identify some of the specific benefits of DIM. Not all of the suspected benefits have been confirmed, but most experts agree that DIM has a number of health benefits for men and women.

Estrogen Metabolism

• Taking Diindolylmethane supplements increases the efficiency of the metabolic processing of estrogen. This increase in efficiency has been linked to increased antioxidant protection of the heart and brain. This process is also responsible for other benefits, such as an increase in libido in men and women and a decrease in moodiness for women.

Hormonal Balance

• The increase in estrogen metabolism stimulates other hormones such as testosterone. This helps the body to return to a state of hormonal balance and optimal levels. When the body is at this level, it becomes more responsive to exercise and will increase its fat-burning metabolism, build lean muscle faster and promote an overall healthier body.

Preventative Medicine

• Diindolylmethane is also used in a variety of roles in preventative medicine. It is believed that DIM helps to prevent certain cancers, including breast, colon and uterine cancers. It has also been linked to aiding with the prevention of enlarged prostates.

Treatments

• The Diindolylmethane supplement is also used in treatments for common problems. Doctors may prescribe DIM to help with chronic breast pain, premenstual syndrome and endomitriosis.

Risk Reduction

• Diindolylmethane has also been found to reduce the risks associated with hormone replacement therapy. Its positive affect on estrogen metabolism also makes DIM a common choice for reducing the effects of environmental estrogen exposure.