Evidence supporting the use of: Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C)
For the body system: Breasts

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a compound found naturally in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. Its use to support breast health is based on its effects on estrogen metabolism and potential anti-cancer properties. Several preclinical studies and some clinical research suggest that I3C can modulate estrogen metabolism, favoring the production of less estrogenic metabolites. This is relevant because certain estrogen metabolites are associated with a higher risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, including some breast cancers.

Small-scale clinical studies have shown that I3C supplementation can increase urinary excretion of 2-hydroxyestrone, a "good" estrogen metabolite, in women. Furthermore, laboratory studies have demonstrated that I3C and its derivative, diindolylmethane (DIM), can inhibit proliferation and induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells. However, while these findings are promising, large, well-controlled clinical trials demonstrating a reduction in breast cancer incidence or clear protective effects in humans are lacking.

Thus, the scientific evidence supporting I3C's role in breast health is moderate and mostly mechanistic or preliminary. It is not fully conclusive, but there is enough scientific rationale and early clinical data to justify its use for supporting breast health, especially in the context of estrogen metabolism. Caution is advised, as high doses may have unknown long-term effects, and it should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical care.

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