A compound formed from cruciferous vegetables, taken mainly to shift how the body processes estrogen. Its clearest effect is moving estrogen-breakdown products toward a pattern many consider favorable and raising the protein that buffers sex hormones. Benefits for breast, prostate, and hormonal symptoms stay preliminary or unproven; it is low-cost and generally well tolerated. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Urinary 2-OHE1:16α-OHE1 ratio | ≥ 2.0 (functional target) | DIM's primary documented effect; tracks the estrogen-metabolism shift |
| Estradiol (E2) | Sex- and cycle-appropriate; avoid over-suppression | Detects excessive lowering of active estrogen, especially with hormone therapy |
| Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) | ~ 30–90 nmol/L (context-dependent) | DIM raises SHBG, reducing free hormone; helps interpret hormonal effect |
| Total and free testosterone | Age- and sex-appropriate optimal range | Relevant to DIM's androgen-receptor effects, especially in men |
| Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) | < 1.0–4.0 ng/mL depending on age | Baseline and follow-up for men using DIM for prostate goals |
| Sodium | 135–145 mmol/L | Screens for the rare hyponatremia signal |
| Liver enzymes (ALT, AST) | ALT/AST roughly < 25 U/L (functional) | DIM is hepatically metabolized; confirms no hepatic stress |
| Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) | ~ 0.5–2.5 mIU/L (functional) | Reassurance given the theoretical goitrogen concern |
Cadence: Recheck at 8–12 weeks after starting, then every 6–12 months during continued use