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Prevention & Treatment of Cancer with Indol-3-Carbinol

3,3' - Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a major in vivo derivative of the putative anticaner agent indole-3-carbinol (13C), which is present in vegetables of Brassica genus.( cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts.)

Researchers at Rockefeller University have found that the body metabolizes estrogens into several different forms that can impact cancer development. One form, 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1), tends to inhibit cancer growth. Another, 16- alfa-hydroxyestrone (16-a-OHE1), actually encourages tumor development. A women's "biochemical individuality" determines how much of each form is produced.

Studies have shown that measuring the ratio of these two forms of estrogen provides an important indication of risk for future development of estrogen- sensitive cancers. This risk can be modified. THE ESTRONEX 2/16 TEST--measures these two forms of estrogen: 2-OHE1 (the "good" estrogen) and 16-a-OHE1, (the "bad" estrogen). The ratio of "good to bad estrogen" is determined from a single urine specimen. Women with low ESTRONEX 2/16 ratios have much higher rates of breast cancer. Low ESTRONEX 2/16 ratios also indicate increased long term risk for estrogen- sensitive cancers, including uterine, ovarian, cervical and even head and neck cancers.

Consuming more foods containing indole-3-carbinol (13C) can raise the Estronex 2/16 ratio.

Nutritional supplements containing 13C or diindolylmethane (DIM), a supplement closely related to 13 C, have been shown to raise the Estronex 2/16 ratio. Ground flax seed, or soy isoflavones - favorably benefit the 2/16 ratio. Also Omega-3 oils from fish tend to improve Estronex 2/16 ratio.

(Altern Med Rev 2001 Dec;6(6):580-9; www.metametrix.com)