Indole-3-Carbinol Kills Cancer Cells

ct.The micronutrient Indole-3-Carbinol, also referenced as I3C, is a member of the glucosinolate family, a group of complex compounds that contain indoles and isothiocyanates such as sulforaphane. A plethora of medical research studies endorse the many benefits of Indole-3-Carbinol dietary supplements. Many people are asking their doctor, “What is it, what can it do for me, and what are Indole-3-carbinol side effects?

I3C, a precursor of Diindolylmethane (DIM), occurs naturally in cruciferous vegetables such as collard greens, turnips, watercress, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, Brussels sprouts, and broccoli. These sulfur-rich antioxidants and natural detoxifying enzymes are clinically proven to present potent anti-cancer properties.

I3C does not become active in the body until it converts to DIM in the gastrointestinal tract. Early research experiments conducted in animal studies demonstrated that feeding cruciferous vegetables reduced the incidence of chemical carcinogenesis and that adding these sulfur-rich vegetables to the diet helps support healthy estrogen metabolism and detoxification.

I3C is found in food. However, I3C is also manufactured in the laboratory. Health experts advise it is best to obtain the benefits of Indole-3-Carbinol from eating a diet high in veggies. While many people have good intentions and try to add more vegetables to their diet, most of us do not get enough I3C from the foods we ingest. Typically Asian diets contain more than twice as much I3C as do the diets of Westerners.

Clinical trials indicate Indole-3-Carbinol works in several ways:

• Impacting the effects of estrogen on cells

• Enhancing the conversion of estrogen to a less cancer-promoting form

• Inhibiting or killing cancer cells

• Reducing levels of free radicals, which can encourage the growth of cancer cells by causing damage to DNA

Indole-3-Carbinol Impacts High Estrogen Levels

In persons where estrogens are contributing to unwanted medical issues such as gynecomastia (breast development in males) or certain kinds of breast cancer, physicians may recommend inducing a state of hypoestrogenism with I3C dietary supplements.

Multiple medical research studies in humans suggest that taken orally, I3C can stop, and even reverse precancerous changes in the cervix and is useful in the prevention and treatment of prostate, colon, breast, skin and liver cancer. A clinical trial in humans suggests that I3C can also help reverse cervical dysplasia, a precancerous condition with few Indole-3-Carbinol side effects. Additional research trials are required to confirm this promising result. Research indicates I3C can affect estrogen metabolism and activity and thus prevent estrogen-sensitive breast cancer.

I3C has also proved beneficial in weight management. High estrogen levels cause water retention and contribute to increased body fat, specifically around the stomach, hips, and thighs. Women who suffer from PMS, ovarian cysts, chronic stress, abnormal pap smears, anxiety, or chronic depression often present abnormally high estrogen levels as compared to progesterone.

In women, excess estrogen in the body can cause several health issues including endometriosis, hormonal headaches, irregular menstrual cycles, breast tenderness and infertility. The problems generated by excess estrogen levels are not limited to women. Men are also adversely challenged by estrogen dominance. Men with elevated estrogen levels may experience increased belly fat, enlarged prostate, prostate cancer, erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Medical research reveals that excess estrogen plays a role in over 50 percent of prostate cancer cases.

To regulate estrogen levels, many healthcare providers suggest Indole-3-Carbinol supplements to augment the deficits of a poor diet. I3C assists with healthy hormonal balance by lowering the number of harmful estrogen metabolites in the body.

The body can convert I3C into 3,3'-diindolylmethane, commonly known as DIM. Scientists project I3C and DIM may be useful for bodybuilding purposes helping bodybuilders to attain lean muscle while shedding fat.

Indole-3-Carbinol side effects are mild when taken at the recommended dosage. Side effects may include a headache, mild nausea, stomach cramps, diarrhea, or dry mouth.

Indole-3-Carbinol Side Effects – Cautions and Concerns

Indole-3-Carbinol is considered safe for most people when used in medicinal recommended amounts under proper medical supervision. However, oral I3C in human clinical trials has been shown to present unwanted side effects at only two times the standard dose with symptoms of dizziness, nausea, gastritis, and nervous system toxicity.

Common Indole-3-Carbinol side effects include skin rashes and small increases in liver enzymes. Hormone levels should be evaluated before using Indole-3-Carbinol for cancer prevention or treatment. To avoid Indole-3-Carbinol side effects, always consult with your doctor before adding I3C or any other medication or supplement to your wellness program. Supplements or prescription medication can interact negatively with other drugs you may be taking.

Women taking birth control pills, estrogen replacement therapy, or who are planning on becoming pregnant, are pregnant, or breastfeeding should not take Indole-3-Carbinol supplements.

References:

United States National Library of Medicine – Glucosinolates: bioavailability and importance to health

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11887749

Oxford Academic – Evaluation of Chronic Dietary Exposure to Indole-3-Carbinol and Absorption-Enhanced 3,3′-Diindolylmethane in Sprague-Dawley Rats

https://academic.oup.com/toxsci/article/74/1/10/1664159

Oregon State University – Micronutrients

http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/glossary#epidemiologic%20study