5 Regulates levels of “bad” and “good” estrogens.ĭIM encourages the metabolism of “bad” unmetabolized estrogens into “good” 2-hydroxy estrogen metabolites, which are largely responsible for the general benefits of estrogen: The end result is a healthier hormonal balance that’s further promoted by DIM’s next possible T-boosting bio-activity. This is especially pertinent to older men who experience heightened aromatase activity with each progressive year.įortunately, DIM may inhibit aromatase activity, preventing testosterone from converting to estrogen–which serves as a sort of two-for-one deal here: More T, less E. 4 Inhibits the aromatase enzyme.Īromatase converts testosterone into estrogen ( what!?), a process that results in less male activity and more feminine bodily attributes (i.e. The method with which DIM inhibits SHBG involves the increase of estrogen compounds that have a higher affinity to SHBG than T–thus promoting the release of T from SHBG. The result is more “free” T that can easily cross the blood-brain barrier, enter fat cells, strengthen muscle tissue, etc. DIM’s Possible T-Boosting Bio-Activities Releases and safeguards T from T-binding carrier proteins.ĭIM doesn’t actually cause the body to produce more testosterone–instead, it instigates the release of T bound to sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) protein, often preventing T from binding in the first place. Even so, some manufacturers combine the nutrients, perhaps in an attempt to mimic the phytocomposition of cruciferous vegetables–yet whether or not this provides any special benefits remains unknown. 3 Due to this, most manufacturers avoid the I3C “step” altogether, opting instead for direct DIM action.īy no means does this suggest that I3C possesses zero clinical value–after all, it’s the most common natural “form” of DIM found in veggies–but its relative instability and reliance on enzymatic conversion makes it less valuable than DIM. I3C on its own has actually shown to be entirely ineffective at accomplishing the same metabolic functions as DIM–additionally, I3C is relatively unstable for its ability to convert to compounds other than DIM.

In other words, the positive health benefits associated with I3C are actually a result of its conversion to the more “bio-active” DIM. I3C itself remains inactive in the body, but after its conversion to DIM, it helps inhibit aromatase to decrease free-floating estradiol estrogen (E2) levels. I3C converts into DIM during digestion, which is then released into the bloodstream to work its magic on aromatase enzymes, SHBG-bound testosterone, and unmetabolized estrogen metabolites. The main reason: I3C works primarily as a precursor to DIM.

Yet, despite their similarities, DIM is the preferred supplement choice over I3C. Indole-3-CarbinolĪs we already mentioned, DIM is derived from I3C–both being natural compounds found in Brassica vegetables both believed to reduce the risk factors associated with negative estrogen-influenced conditions. By Coyau / Wikimedia Commons, via Wikimedia Commons Diindolylmethane vs. Unfortunately, under certain circumstances, the opposite seems to also hold true. 2ĭuring an in-depth analysis of DIM’s metabolic and hormonal processes, researchers found that DIM might possess significant regulatory effects on testosterone & estrogen levels, potentially increasing active testosterone while reducing harmful, unmetabolized estrogens. Originally studied for its anti-inflammatory properties on respiratory inflammation, DIM was later found to have anti-viral and immune-boosting properties, which lead to DIM being clinically studied for the treatment and prevention of multiple forms of immune deficiency conditions and viral/bacterial infections. You know this species of vegetable through broccoli, but it also includes red cabbage, mustard greens, bok choy, horseradish, watercress, kale, and many others.

Regulates levels of “bad” and “good” estrogens.ĭiindolylmethane (DIM) is the primary active metabolic compound derived from Indole-3 Carbinol (I3C), a chemical found in many vegetables of the Brassica family.

Releases and safeguards T from T-binding carrier proteins.

DIM’s Possible T-Boosting Bio-Activities.

Best dim supplement for men