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

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Synopsis

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

Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a compound naturally found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. Its use to support the estrogen body system is primarily based on scientific evidence, though most of this comes from preclinical studies and limited human trials. I3C is known to influence estrogen metabolism by promoting the conversion of estrogen to less potent metabolites, specifically increasing the 2-hydroxylation of estradiol, which is considered a less estrogenic and potentially protective metabolic pathway. This shift is hypothesized to reduce the risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as breast and cervical cancer.

Animal and in vitro studies have shown that I3C and its major metabolite, diindolylmethane (DIM), can modulate estrogen receptor activity and inhibit the proliferation of certain cancer cells. Some small human studies suggest that I3C supplementation may alter urinary estrogen metabolite profiles in a direction considered favorable for reducing cancer risk. However, robust clinical evidence demonstrating clear benefits for estrogen-related health issues (like menopausal symptoms or hormone balance in healthy individuals) is still lacking.

Overall, while I3C’s ability to modify estrogen metabolism is supported by mechanistic and preliminary clinical research, its efficacy and safety for broader estrogen system support need further validation in large, long-term human studies.

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