DIM is a compound commonly found in cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, and more. This compound boasts anti-inflammatory and cancer-fighting properties thanks to its ability to help promote a healthy estrogen balance in the body. This post looks at some of the biggest health benefits of DIM.
Healthy estrogen levels contribute to lower risks of certain cancers, as well as diseases like lupus, which are linked to estrogen. Additionally, a diet rich in vegetables helps to lower cancer risks (as high as one in three cancer deaths is related to poor nutrition)– and the DIM content in some veggies is part of what makes them such a powerhouse health food.
This versatile compound has a long list of health benefits. Topping the list includes its ability to promote healthy estrogen levels. Some of DIM’s estrogen related effects may include:
- Prevention of estrogen’s adverse effects on cells
- Ability to slow some cancer cells
- Decreases toxins produced by the body’s natural metabolism
- Promotes weight loss
- Enhances memory
- Reduces symptoms of PMS
- Supports cardiovascular health
- Improves mood
- Reduces hair loss
- Promotes good muscle development
- Improves prostate health
- Boosts antioxidants
Including DIM in Your Diet
Even for people who love eating vegetables, getting enough DIM from diet alone can be difficult. This is especially true if cruciferous vegetables in particular aren’t a regular part of your meals. In fact, you’d have to eat eight cups of raw brussels sprouts every single day (for FOREVER) to reap the full benefits of DIM. That’s why a DIM supplement can be beneficial.
DIM at a Glance
Some Fast Facts About DIM:
- It’s for men and women.
Estrogen isn’t a “female only” hormone. In fact, a portion of testosterone changes into estrogen and is then metabolized in the liver, and increased levels of estrogen can lead to some types of cancer in both men as well as women.
- Know the right dose.
It’s always important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning a supplement regimen. Ask your practitioner if DIM may be right for you. Some questions to consider: Could DIM reduce the efficacy of some of my current medications? Is there another medication option if so? What amount of DIM is right for my specific needs?
- Diet is best.
Supplements can be great, but they should come alongside a healthy diet, not replace one. Include cruciferous veggies in your diet, even if you take a DIM supplement. If you struggle to eat vegetables on their own, consider hiding them in smoothies, sauces, or baked dishes. Aside from the already mentioned benefits, a diet rich in vegetables is also rich in fiber and a host of vitamins and minerals.
Supplements can pack more DIM in one little daily dose than exponentially more actual vegetables. This makes supplements an excellent option to reap the biggest health benefits of DIM.
Precautions When Considering DIM
DIM supplements offer numerous benefits, but there are a few people groups who should avoid DIM. This includes pregnant and breastfeeding women, and anyone taking medications like imipramine, propranolol, and olanzapine.
As any medication or supplement could interact with one another, again, it’s always important to discuss your supplement and medication regimen with your healthcare provider.
If you’re looking for balanced estrogen levels, improved mood, and potentially better health overall, DIM may be right for you! To get you started, here are a few of our favorite trusted brands of DIM (all links are affiliate links):
Seeking Health DIM
Thorne DIM
Smoky Mountain Naturals DIM
Pure Encapsulations DIM
To schedule an appointment or discuss your health further, contact us at Insight Thermography of Oklahoma. We’d love to help you move forward in better health!
