DIM stands for diindolylmethane (3,3′-diindolylmethane). It is a compound formed in the body from indole-3-carbinol (I3C), which is itself found in cruciferous vegetables — a family of plants that includes broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, and kale. When these vegetables are chewed or digested, I3C is released and converted in the stomach's acidic environment to DIM.
The connection to cruciferous vegetables
Cruciferous vegetables have long been associated with health benefits in epidemiological studies, and researchers have investigated many of their bioactive compounds. I3C and DIM are among the most studied. DIM is present in very small amounts in the vegetables themselves; the majority forms during digestion. This is why eating broccoli and taking a DIM supplement produce different amounts of the compound.
How does DIM relate to oestrogen?
DIM is primarily studied for its effects on oestrogen metabolism. Oestrogen in the body is metabolised into several different forms — some considered more biologically active than others. The two primary oestrogen metabolites studied in this context are 2-hydroxyoestrone (2-OHE1) and 16α-hydroxyoestrone (16α-OHE1). DIM has been shown in research to favour the production of 2-OHE1 — a weaker, less active oestrogen metabolite — over 16α-OHE1, which is more potent.
This oestrogen-modulating effect is why DIM is commonly studied in the context of hormonal balance in both men and women.
Bioavailability
DIM has low natural water solubility, which can limit absorption. Many DIM supplements use absorption-enhanced formulations (such as microencapsulation or emulsification with vitamin E or phospholipids) to improve bioavailability.
Available product
Supplements & More carries Horbäach DIM 300 mg (60 capsules). Imported from the United States, delivered across Lebanon with cash on delivery.