Ortho Molecular Products CDG EstroDIM

CDG EstroDIM is a targeted supplement that combines the synergistic benefits of indole-3-carbinol (I3C) and diindolylmethane (DIM) to support estrogen metabolism. Formulating I3C and DIM together creates the ideal combination of beneficial metabolites to support estrogen balance and reduce the severity of recurrent breast pain (cyclical mastalgia).

Overview

Three major naturally occurring forms of estrogen in women are estrone (E1), estradiol (E2), and estriol (E3). Hormones have important functions in every area of the body. They are chemical messengers that interact with cells all over the body (especially tissues that are more sensitive to them, including breast tissue). The most important message they deliver to cells is to grow, divide and multiply. For this reason, hormones are critically important in human development and tissue repair. Supporting estrogen synthesis and metabolism is essential for proper hormonal balance. The means in which estrogen is metabolized can result in different metabolites,

each with individual biological activity. By keeping hormones in balance and ensuring the body is able to process hormones properly, I3C and DIM work together to reduce hormone overload. Current data on I3C and DIM suggests that these phytonutrients have strong potential for supporting breast health.1-4 I3C* is a naturally occurring compound derived from cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts and cabbage. Together, I3C and DIM promote the creation of the favorable and protective 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE) metabolite versus production of 4-hydroxyestrone (4-OHE) and 16-alpha-hydroxyestrone (16-alphaOHE), metabolites which can overstimulate cells and create free radicals that cause DNA damage.5 The influence of I3C and DIM on estrogen metabolism creates a more desirable ratio of 2-OHE to 16-alpha-OHE. This assessment of 2:16-alpha-OHE ratio has been used to evaluate hormonal health.

Many of the health benefits derived from eating cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, etc.) are derived from the group of secondary metabolites known as glucosinolates. When these vegetables are cut, crushed or chewed, the enzyme myrosinase (released from the cells) hydrolyses these glucosinolates into other compounds. For instance, glucosinolates from broccoli and brussel sprouts readily convert into I3C when consumed. I3C can then be further converted via stomach acid into other health promoting compounds, including DIM. These compounds are thought to be responsible for the various cellular activities involved in hormone health.