Weight gain and belly bloat got ya down?

“Eat your Broccoli” said everyone’s parents (at least a million times)

We all heard growing up that cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage are good for us. Now there is data that shows DIM, or Diindolylmethane, a compound found in these types of veggies, includes beneficial effects on hormonal balance in women who are going through peri-menopause and menopause.

You have heard and read this many times over but just in case it hasn’t sunk in, during menopause women experience a decline in estrogen levels which can lead to a number of symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and vaginal dryness. DIM has been shown to support healthy estrogen metabolism and balance, which can help alleviate some of these symptoms.

Why and how does DIM help with menopause symptoms?

As mentioned above, DIM has been shown to support healthy estrogen metabolism and balance. Here’s the breakdown: Estrogen is processed through the liver. After being produced by the ovaries or adrenal glands, estrogen circulates in the bloodstream and is eventually metabolized by the liver. The liver breaks down estrogen into different metabolites, which are then eliminated from the body through the urine and feces.

This process of estrogen metabolism is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance and preventing the buildup of excess estrogen in the body. However, when the liver is not functioning properly or is overwhelmed by a high volume of estrogen, for example fluctuation of estrogen during peri-menopause and/or women who take HRT, estrogen metabolites can accumulate in the body and contribute to a range of health problems, including weight gain (read belly fat), acne, hair loss, joint pain and other estrogen-related conditions. 

In addition to liver function, other factors can also affect estrogen metabolism, including diet, lifestyle, and genetic factors. For example, consuming a diet high in cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale) can increase the production of 2-hydroxyestrone, a “good” estrogen metabolite. Similarly, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can also support healthy estrogen metabolism.

DIM is believed to help support healthy estrogen metabolism by promoting the breakdown of harmful forms of estrogen, such as estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone, and increasing the production of beneficial forms of estrogen, such as 2-hydroxyestrone. By supporting healthy estrogen metabolism, DIM may help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with menopause.

What the heck is estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone?  

Estrone (E1) and 16α-hydroxyestrone (16α-OHE1) are two forms of estrogen that are produced by the body. Estrone is the primary form of estrogen found in postmenopausal women, while 16α-hydroxyestrone is a metabolite of estrone that is produced by the liver.

Estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone have different effects on the body. Estrone has been associated with an increased risk of certain health conditions, such as breast cancer, while 16α-hydroxyestrone has been linked to oxidative stress and inflammation.

On the other hand, 2-hydroxyestrone (2-OHE1) is a beneficial form of estrogen that has been shown to have anti-carcinogenic properties and to help maintain healthy bone density.

What are the symptoms of having too much estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone?

Having too much estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone can impact the body in various ways and may contribute to a number of health problems. Some of the symptoms associated with elevated levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone include:

• Increased risk of certain cancers: High levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone have been associated with an increased risk of breast cancer, endometrial cancer, and prostate cancer.
• Hormonal imbalances: Elevated levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone can disrupt the balance of hormones in the body and contribute to symptoms such as mood swings, irregular menstrual cycles, and hot flashes.
• Oxidative stress and inflammation: 16α-hydroxyestrone has been linked to oxidative stress and inflammation, which are associated with a number of health problems, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and arthritis.
• Decreased bone density: High levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone have been associated with a decrease in bone density, which increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

It is important to note that elevated levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone can be caused by a number of factors, including diet, lifestyle, and exposure to environmental toxins. Additionally, the symptoms of elevated estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone may be different for each individual and may depend on a number of factors, including age, genetics, and overall health. 

Is there a blood test that will determine your levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone? 

Yes, there is a blood test that can determine your levels of estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone. This test is called an estrogen metabolism panel and it measures the levels of various forms of estrogen in the blood, including estrone and 16α-hydroxyestrone.

The estrogen metabolism panel can provide important information about the balance of different forms of estrogen in the body and can help identify any imbalances that may be contributing to symptoms such as hot flashes, mood changes, and decreased bone density.

If you are interested in getting an estrogen metabolism panel, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider, who can help determine if the test is right for you and guide you through the process.

How long does it take DIM to work?

The length of time it takes for DIM to work can vary depending on several factors, including the individual, the dose, and the form of DIM used. Some people may notice improvement in symptoms within a few days of starting DIM, while others may not see results for several weeks or even months.

It is important to keep in mind that DIM is not a quick-acting remedy and that it may take time for the body to respond to the supplement. Additionally, the effects of DIM may vary depending on the individual and the specific symptoms being addressed.

It is important to consult with your healthcare provider before taking DIM. When taking DIM for the first time, it is critical to be patient and to continue taking the supplement as directed, even if you do not see immediate results. If you do not see any improvement in your symptoms after a reasonable period of time speak with your provider, as this may indicate that DIM is not an appropriate treatment option for you.   

Foreverbetty recommends…

SM Nutrition DIM 200mg + BioPerine

Sourced with only the highest quality ingredients, SM Nutrition’s DIM supplement aids in hormone balance by supporting the body’s ability to process excess estrogen and offers support for menopause, night sweats and mild hot flashes. Third-party tested with independent labs. Gluten-Free,  Soy-Free, Dairy-Free, Non-GMO,, Vegan  and formulated without the top 8 allergens.

Author’s note: After hearing about the benefits of DIM for a few years, I decided to try it. It usually doesn’t take me that long  to decide to try something but my hesitation was because I am on HRT.  I thought I would be diminishing the amount of needed estrogen by taking DIM. However, it doesn’t diminish the amount needed but rather helps my body cycle out the bad estrogen that I don’t need.  At the time of this writing (mid-Feb), I have been taking this for two weeks and I have to say that I feel like my abdomen area isn’t as bloated as it was previously. I feel more comfortable and confident.