It's very safe and has a tonic and balancing effect. Read more about me here. 4. DIM Promotes Fat Decomposition DIM is linked to estrogen metabolism, which is important for body weight regulation. This starter pack is exactly what every woman needs to bring her hormones back into balance! I have a 26 day cycle which has not let up. Read more about supplements for PMS here. There was mostly some flooding and clots at the beginning instead of all the way through and surprisingly a dramatic decrease in pain! Im 50 years old and thought maybe I was starting to go into menopause. Although research on DIM is still quite limited, its thought to help balance estrogen levels in your body (1). Symptoms of estrogen dominance can include: In some instances, estrogen can look normal in labs but the metabolites that are produced in the liver can be problematic. No matter DIMs effectiveness, its always good to eat more cruciferous veggies. Copyright 2020 - 2023 Stamina Comfort Inc. What causes your period to be less frequent? DIM Supplement For Men: Is it Safe? - DrFormulas If you do decide to take Vitex, don't take it for longer than 3-6 months maximum at a time, then stop and see how your hormones are without it. Taking the pills with a meal may help with absorption and increase the supplement's benefits. Potential Benefits Of DIM Supplements. But since it has other effects as well, it is best used along with other methods of birth control. The majority of individuals find that taking DIM first thing in the morning with a glass of water and a little amount of food is the best way to proceed. It is a form of long-term birth control and also reduces or eliminates monthly bleeding. Your doctor will ask about your menstrual cycle because changes in your hormone levels could indicate problems other than low-income status. Its important to note that a higher dose of DIM was used because this was a study on patients with thyroid proliferative disease. It breaks the glucoronide bond between a toxin and glucuronic acid, and releases carcinogens, toxins and excess steroid hormones back into circulation. Here's how it all goes down: You have 2 ovaries, and each one holds a bunch of eggs. I just felt like I had all the menopause symptoms and they went away when I stopped the DIM. Exercise decreases "bad" estrogen levels and helps your body make more of the "good" estrogens. We know an imbalance of estrogen and progesterone is not ideal at any time, but during the perimenopausal period, it often dramatically affects a womans quality of life. The Dos and Don'ts of Vitex for Period Problems - Lara Briden Starting with a lower dose of 50-100 mg is often best to avoid headaches, which can occur when you begin supplementing with DIM. While in perimenopause, a womans progesterone levels will begin to decline as her ovulation is less regular. DIM supports liver enzymes that may help with Phase 1 estrogen metabolism, which is the phase that packages hormones and toxins up for elimination. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional. The DIM compound may have several estrogen-related effects in your body:. Unlike other bacteria that cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal illness, you don't need to come in contact with a lot of Shigella to get sick, which makes it easy to spread to others. Diane, I have heard many good reviews for DIM which is why I wanted to try it. Left unchallenged, estrogen is allowed to stimulate tissues and as it goes through its own peaks and troughs, it can trigger hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Calcium d-glucarate mitigates the effect of betaglucuronidase. The Role of Calcium D-Glucarate in Hormone Balance If youre of reproductive age, estrogen is necessary to support healthy breast, bone, and endometrial tissue. possibly because I put it on my skin instead of internally, but it upsets my stomach otherwise. Sex Drive has decreased. Still, more human research is necessary (15). If youve been struggling with PMS symptoms, heavy periods, acne, breast tenderness or symptoms of PCOS or perimenopause then youve probably come across a DIM supplement as a solution. 2005-2023 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. Researched and developed by several nutritionists, botanists, biochemists, and doctors who've approved it as an effective supplement to take during chemotherapy. I stopped DIM immediately. See what's being discussed, ask for help, give your thoughts or experiences, or just browse Its free and will bring you important new information on progesterone therapy and related health matters, Home|Contact|Newsletter|Index of Symptoms|News|Progesterone cream|Privacy policy|Blog|About|FAQ. Before trying any supplement, talk to your doctor. For some people, periods stop altogether. I have been using progesterone cream for the last two luteal phase cycles (very irregular 50ml doses a day/every second or third days). If this becomes a problem, talk to your doctor. Hopefully this will make a difference. Once in menopause a womans estrogen will decline. Estrogen dominance could unfortunately come about for various reasons: anovulation (no ovulation), stress, adrenal issues, excess fat in the body, the environment, digestive problems, and autoimmune conditions. Side effects that are less prevalent include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and skin rash (3). Breasts are delicate. A 30-day study in 19 post-menopausal women with early-stage breast cancer found that taking 108 mg of DIM per day also resulted in beneficial changes in estrogen levels (9). Low estrogen is typically seen in younger women and women approaching menopause. DIM is used as a supplement to help with bodybuilding because it inhibits aromatase, allowing more testosterone to move freely throughout the body, benefiting the heart, bones, skin, and brain [7]. It also lowered estrogen levels from 8.00 pg/mL in controls to 4.56 pg/mL. Thats why DIM is so intriguing. So DIM may not have much benefit. They are responsible for producing estrogen and regulating the menstrual cycle. I began taking around 80 mg a day. Keep in mind that human studies are needed. The North American Menopause Society. Menstrual cycle: What's normal, what's not - Mayo Clinic Depression during period: Why it happens, and what to do Within the liver there are two steps to estrogen metabolism known as Phase 1 and Phase 2 detox. Men also benefit from DIM. You can get started with this free recipe guide and meal plan. DIM supplements have not been shown to cause serious side effects, though more safety research is needed. A few clinical trials have shown that it supports healthy estrogen levels, lowering the risk of certain cancers and diseases like lupus that are linked to estrogen. Should You Take Dim During Your Period? - Stamina Comfort Some women who suffer from insomnia due to estrogen dominance, perimenopause, or menopause find that taking DIM at night helps them sleep better and longer. It is also important to note that 16OHE1 metabolites could also stimulate estrogen-sensitive cancer cells, which if left unchecked, could lead to breast tumors. I usually pop them like candy and they still don't really help. Don'ts Robinson DP, Klein SL. DIM works at the Phase 1 detox level to help your liver make the most favorable metabolite, 2OHE1 and reduce the excess production of potentially harmful 4OHE1 and 16OHE1. As Ill explain in this article, DIM supports the body in producing more favorable estrogen metabolites, specifically 2-hydroxy estrogen (2OH). Taking regular breaks from vitex can prevent attenuation of its effects. 4. As for the second question, the answer is yes, you can try diming out for yourself. I don't feel like the lugol's is doing much for me. DIM has the potential to alter your menstruation since it changes your estrogen levels. The same thing goes for individuals who are allergic to garlic or have high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes. This increased burden can lead to problems such as diabetes and high blood pressure, both of which may also influence your period cycle. Lowers toxins . DIM supplements may safeguard against prostate enlargement and prostate cancer. I've been taking 200mg of DIM once a day for 6 months and . It may also help reduce the effects of a stronger form called 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone, which has been linked to weight gain and an increased risk of some cancers, including breast and uterine cancer (1, 7). While cruciferous vegetables are the primary food source of DIM, you would need to eat several servings every day to reap this compounds benefits (1). Oestrogen is broken down into 2 principle metabolites, 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1) and 16-alpha hydroxyestrone (16alpha-OHE1). Taking a bath on your period is absolutely safe and can be a great way to reduce pain and increase relaxation during a time when you might need it most. 3. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC. Get plenty of lubricants like K-Y Jelly or any other lube you use to have sex. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know if youre taking DIM and any other supplement so that they can advise you about interactions. :))))). 5 Ways to Benefit Your Fertility by Taking DIM I still didn't feel much of a difference pos or neg until my march period. getting enough sleep and keeping a regular sleep schedule. A fierce patient advocate and completely dedicated to uncovering the root cause of hormonal imbalances, Dr. Brighten empowers women worldwide to take control of their health and their hormones. Posted on Thursday, August 14, 2014 The majority of this article is information obtained from the book "All About DIM" by Michael A. Zeligs, MD and A. Scott Connelly, MD. Estrogen Dominance During Perimenopause: Top Causes and Fixes Avoid foods high in histamines. I'm praying that my june period is better. DIM may be helpful for breast health because it supports Phase 1 metabolism of estrogen in the liver, favoring 2OHE1. Periods will start to become irregular, until they disappear altogether. I went on my own and started natpro. Dim lights can also trigger migraine headaches for people who suffer from them. My May period came on day 23 (not great but more the norm for me) and my breasts were not as sore. Before using DIM, those who are at a greater risk for estrogen-sensitive malignancies other hormone-related diseases should talk to their doctor. "The daily recommended intake of 600 IUs is debatable since studies show higher amounts of D are necessary for disease- and cancer-prevention benefits." Start by getting your levels checked to. In the study, a small sample of patients with thyroid proliferative disease (which includes cancer, goiter and adenoma) were given 300 mg of DIM daily for two weeks. Hold up. Dr. Jolene BrightenPublished: August 27, 2021Last Reviewed: January 14, 2022 Balancing Your Hormones, Period Problems, PMS & PMDD Leave a Comment. In people with diabetes, this insulin response is not adequate. Vitex is a powerful adaptogenic herb that is often used post-pill to help your body make hormones again, help bring your period back, and help regulate your cycle overall. DIM possesses hormone-modulating effects. So if you take DIM during your period time and start BO with Vitex it helps a lot. I also took about 500 mgs of cal d glucarate and NAC along with several other supplements for PCOS and iron of course. Given that estrogen plays an important role in regulating fat accumulation, DIM supplements may aid weight loss although no human research currently supports this effect. KEEPING IT REAL, WHILE KEEPING YOU EDUCATED. Natural Period Repair: Tips from Dr. Lara Briden - Medium DIM pills tend to help regulate estrogen levels. Excessive weight also puts more stress on your heart and other organs. What does the thyroid have to do with estrogen? More on that soon. Exercise on a regular basis. If you are overweight, your body may create an excess of oestrogen, one of the hormones that govern the female reproductive system. Is Garcinia Cambogia Safe for Weight Loss? Im hoping the weight gain does too. While a DIM supplement may be helpful for some women, it is not essential for everyone. I started taking Estroblock triple strength a week and a half ago. Test-tube and animal studies suggest that DIM supplements may help prevent the growth and spread of breast cancer cells. It contains ingredients that support Phase 1 and 2 estrogen metabolism in the liver, as well as calcium d-glucarate to ensure the body is able to safely remove estrogen from the body. Its an essential hormone for women, and is responsible for so much good stuff like cognition, protecting our bones, and helping us have healthy pregnancies. As a licensed naturopathic physician who is board certified in naturopathic endocrinology, she takes an integrative approach in her clinical practice. It's then excreted in the bile, but an enzyme in the intestine called beta-glucuronidase reverses the glucuronidation process. The Benefits of DIM - Fort Wayne Physical Medicine It can also help you relax after a hard day's work by reducing your anxiety levels. I am not due for my yearly and another PAP until November. This is not unusual, since black urine is also seen in those who consume a lot of cruciferous veggies. Where to Start. Take Dim Plus. People on hormone therapies or with certain hormone-related cancers should avoid these supplements. This nutrient has a lot of potential hormonal health benefits for women particularly in the case of excess estrogen, which is why many people opt for the supplement. Your doctor can decide whether you need to switch to a different drug while taking DIM. How To Take Calcium D-Glucarate for Estrogen Dominance Dr. Perez's expertise lies mainly in abdominal and pelvic surgical procedures such as appendectomies and hysterectomies but she also has extensive knowledge of other areas such as orthopedics and thoracic surgeries. Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound created when you digest cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli or Brussels sprouts (1, 2). Dim has no known harmful effects by itself, but it may cause problems when taken in high doses or if you have any kind of intestinal obstruction. And supplementation may sometimes be a useful tool in helping the body optimize your hormones. 6 Supplements to Take During Chemotherapy: Extensive Guide "It takes . The two main types are type 1 and type 2. I stopped the DIM right after. If no other issues arise, I will take it it was from the DIM. Although there is research and anecdotal evidence to suggest benefits, it is important to note that more data is needed. I was so happy that I didn't have to take mounds of ibuprofen, especially with all the new heart attack warnings. At the end there was about 5 days of spotting. annoying but tolerable. . PMS symptoms are worsening. Changes in Hormone Levels. The best estrogen metabolite is 2-hydroxy estrone (2OHE1), which DIM promotes over the problematic estrogen metabolite, 16 alpha-hydroxy estrone (16OHE1). Although research is ongoing, increasing the ratio of 2-hydrozyestrone to 16-hydrozyesterone may reduce breast cancer risk and cause anti-tumor effects (8). Has anyone used DIM with BO? - Natural Breast Enhancement Forums - Page 1 Read Guide to using progesterone for women's health. Inactivity. DIM (phytochemicals, diindolylmethane) is an indole phytonutrient found only in cruciferous vegetables. Btw, I'm on day 25 of my cycle and I have been spotting for the past week with cramping on and off but no period yet. While estrogen levels decrease during menopause, the truth is, estrogen levels do not fall significantly until after a woman's last period. The only hormone metabolites known to help with appropriate levels of the free form of testosterone are the 2-hydroxy metabolites of estrogen induced by DIM. Though DIM supplements are popular, there is still no significant proof of their safety and effectiveness. DHT is the form of testosterone associated with prostate cancer in men and conditions like hirsutism (hair where you dont want it) and acne in women. Furthermore, DIM supplements may stimulate fat breakdown and inhibit fat cell formation. DIM, as mentioned before, is thought to have the same mechanism as spironolactone. Relax and leave in place for 45 to 60 minutes. Current human research doesnt show DIM supplements to be toxic or have serious side effects. My hair has been thinning for years as well as my eyebrows and much of my body hair. In cases of microbial dysbiosis in the gut it is possible for an enzyme known as betaglucuronidase to reactivate the metabolites created in the liver and put estrogen back into circulation. Satisfaction. A study published in 2014 found that the outcome of DIM interacting with hormones and genes may be good or bad, depending on the amount of hormones and DIM in the body. People also ask, When should I take DIM morning or night? Estradiol and cognitive function: past, present and future. Discuss any medication you are currently taking with your doctor before adding DIM to your regimen. Under normal conditions, blood glucose (sugar) levels rise after you eat and then fall as liver cells produce more glucose or muscles absorb it from the blood. Being overweight increases your risk of experiencing irregular periods. Phosphatidylserine improves brain function while also helping to regulate cortisol levels. Fight zits and skin damage with all-natural, organic. Thanks. Dimming can help improve your overall mood if you're feeling down or stressed out. I am now Post-Menopausal (58) and am now, after higher doses, also, Hi I have estrogen D in the process of getting better im using cream at high dose my vit d levels are great. Which findings could lead to the presence of edema? As weve discussed, estrogen can stimulate tissues to grow, which includes the endometrium. Estrogen dominance may also raise insulin levels, leading to sugar cravings to compensate for the low blood sugar that results. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. First, I suggest avoiding the foods below for just 2-4 weeks to see if there is improvement in symptoms. Q: I am worried about taking DIM because I don't want it to lower my estrogen levels. . Most of the time, rest and over-the-counter medications help. Using A DIM Supplement? What's been your experience? As DIM supplements interact with estrogen levels, they may affect people with hormone-sensitive cancers or who are on hormone therapies. At least 30 grams of fibers should be consume a day. I've heard that DIM can increase testosteron/androgens in men and probably can in some women too. While DIM alone can help with Phase 1 detox metabolites, it is best taken in a supplement that contains Phase 2 detox nutrients like folate, B12, and magnesium. It was not a great period but definitely better! What Happens to Your Body During the TWW? In this way, diuretics help . Levels of a certain kind of estrogen may lead to higher risks of cancer in men, just as it can in women. I've been taking Lugol's 2% but it makes my stomach upset to take it by mouth, so I rub it on my skin. What is the recommended dosage of DIM? Non-GMO Soy Isoflavones 750 mg: Recommended for Hot Flashes. Taking Iron During Your Period. DIM has been discovered to protect normal cells. For example, women with diabetes need more insulin during pregnancy because their bodies cannot use insulin as efficiently while trying to keep the baby's blood sugar stable. I think taking DIM was a mistake for me - ProgesteroneTherapy Each of these doses contains 2000 mg of myo-inositol and 50 mg D-chiro inositol. Research suggests that DIM affects estrogen levels in your body (1). At most cases, blood or urine is tested in a doctors office or lab. I also am looking for and hopeful to find a functional/holistic MD in my area but there aren't many and I'm doubtful that my insurance covers it. DIM can be taken on its own or in a combination formula with other estrogen supporting nutrients. Some individuals may benefit from taking 600 mg of diindolylmethane daily. Consume good fats. He or she may also perform tests to determine if you have diabetes. The dosage of bioavailable, microencapsulated DIM for males participating in a physical conditioning program should be between 150 and 400 mg per day. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, Always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. Calcium D-Glucarate was one of the key stars in my protocol to detox my liver from the toxicity of the pre- and post-surgical medications and . Many factors influence how you are diagnosed with diabetes. During your menstrual cycle, hormones make . In Phase 2 detox these metabolites are methylated and prepared for excretion via the kidneys and bowels. DIM is a compound your body creates when you eat cruciferous vegetables. Let us know in the comments. While these benefits are promising, overall research on DIMs effectiveness and long-term safety in humans is limited. If you have ovulation pain, also called mittelschmerz, you may experience twinging or cramps during ovulation. DIM benefits include supporting a healthy menopausal transition, promoting hormonal balance in those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Your menstrual cycle and period are controlled by hormones like estrogen and progesterone. Although this web site is not intended to be prescriptive, it is intended, and hoped, that it will induce in you a sufficient level of scepticism about some health care practices to impel you to seek out medical advice thatis not captive to purely commercial interests, or blinded by academic and institutional hubris. Depending on your flow this could be two or three times a day. It looked like a crime scene. I'm also taking a b complex, iron and DIM supplements for estrogen issues. Diindolylmethane may help the liver work more efficiently, so if youre on prescription medication that the liver is primarily responsible for breaking down, its possible that your medication may not stay in your system long enough to be effective. Shrink Fibroids the Truth about Estrogen Dominance in Stressful Times What is Menstruation? | Get Facts About Having Your Period The most common side effect was darkening of the urine. Simply click here to return to Progesterone faq. The most frequent adverse effects include urine discoloration, increased bowel movements, headaches, and gas (3, 8). Dietary deficiencies and excessive amounts of toxins found in some foods can damage the ovaries over time. Due to a lack of research in humans, little is known about the long-term safety and side effects of DIM supplements. These risks will be discussed in more detail below. If after 6 months you are still enjoying benefits, you can continue taking it for a year or more. Use daily on days 1-28 of the month and take a 3-day break before restarting on the 1st of the next month. Inositol For PCOS: 11 Things You Must Know - Smart Fertility Choices So that was a plus. The dosage: As a dietary supplement for adults, take 1 Diatom Rx capsule per day (2 hours before or after meals). Try this once daily for three days, or . My main reason for seeking out progesterone was to help with the heavy periods I get every month. I wasn't sure if it was the Progesterone or if it was just a fluke. By Stephanie Garr (Certified Nutrition Consultant) DIM is a particular supplement that has been growing in popularity, especially among women, because it can help correct hormonal imbalances. The third, Hello, i 25 years old and am taking 400 mg of Progesterone since 8 months and a lot of my many symptoms improved but I also didn't have a period since. Both of these are necessary for the neutralization of estrogen in the liver. During both perimenopause and menopause, hormone patterns begin to change. You may think of estrogen as only a female hormone, but its not. Many people mistakenly think that the liver is the only organ involved in estrogen metabolism and while it is very important, so is the health of your kidneys and bowels. Cauley, J. If you suffer from inexplicable weight gain and struggle to lose it, mood swings, fluid retention, lumpy breasts, sugar cravings, abnormal periods, or other issues, then this may be the reason. Thanks Wray and Diane for your info and advice. Losing weight can help improve your menstrual pattern. "It binds to the androgen receptor so that there's no 'hole' for the androgen 'keys' to bind to," says Dr . Even if you eat plenty of veggies, you may not get much DIM if cruciferous vegetables arent a regular part of your meals. It may also help maintain breast health and could prevent painful breasts (mastalgia). The following are the most prevalent causes of Hashimotos disease (and the supplements that may help with each): Hormone imbalance If any of your hormone levels are out of whack, Hashimotos disease may develop. Cover the flannel with plastic wrap. Maintain a healthy body weight. 6. My emotional PMS still very bad and it was very painful and heavy like the month before. For people weighing over 200 lbs, take 2 Diatom Rx capsules per day. To understand how DIM supports your estrogen we first have to understand how estrogen is metabolized. Limited studies suggest that DIM supplements may help reduce prostate enlargement and protect against certain cancers. Period bloating: Causes and remedies - Medical News Today Too much estrogen also tends to create deficiencies of zinc, magnesium and B vitamins. If you have been following me, you might have seen the pre- and post-surgery protocol I created when facing a double hip replacement (on August 28, 2017). step 3: support your liver I was so bloated. It has been demonstrated in a few clinical studies to sustain healthy estrogen levels, lessening the risk of some malignancies and disorders associated to estrogen, such as lupus. All rights reserved. Drugs for Treatment and Risk Reduction: Tamoxifen. Cheung recommends taking 150mg daily, noting that the supplements should be taken longterm, as hormone imbalance will only worsen with age and acne may recur if the hormone-balancing effect of DIM is taken away. What type of iodine do you take? Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Information provided on this web site DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any doctor affiliated with our web site. Studies on DIM have shown promise for breast health, acne, and reducing PMS. Progesterone also stabilizes the HPA (adrenal) axis and supports thyroid function.