Indole 3 Carbinol Benefits, Dosage & Side Effects Supplement Information and Usage Guide

Indole-3-Carbinol is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts that supports hormone balance and may reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a compound derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cabbage. It is known for supporting hormone balance and detoxification.

In the body, I3C converts into other bioactive compounds such as DIM, which may influence estrogen metabolism and protect against hormonal imbalances.

I3C is taken for hormonal support, particularly in women. It is generally safe, though long-term effects at high doses are still being studied.

Other names & forms of Indole 3 Carbinol supplement : i3c, indole-3-carbinol, cruciferous extract, indole supplement

Benefits

Indole 3 Carbinol (I3C) is a cruciferous vegetable metabolite that modulates estrogen metabolism and supports detoxification pathways through cytochrome P450 induction.

  • Helps support Hormonal Balance by promoting healthy estrogen metabolism and reducing the risk of estrogen dominance.
  • Contributes to Anti-Aging by enhancing phase I and II liver detoxification enzymes and protecting cells from carcinogens.
  • May aid Liver Support by upregulating glutathione-S-transferase activity and supporting bile production.
  • Offers possible support for General Health through anti-proliferative effects on certain cell lines.

Dosage

Appropriate doses of Indole 3 Carbinol supplement are determined by health status and professional guidance:

  • Hormonal balance and detox support: 200–400 mg/day of Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C), often derived from cruciferous vegetables.
  • Alternative form: DIM (diindolylmethane) may be better tolerated in some individuals.
  • Use: Estrogen metabolism, breast/prostate health.
  • Recommendation: Take with food to reduce stomach upset; cycle use as needed.
Indole 3 Carbinol dosage should be tailored by a healthcare professional to your condition.

Side Effects

Indole 3 Carbinol is valued for hormone balance support, but you may notice mild effects as your body metabolizes it. Watch for:

  • Mild gastrointestinal upset—nausea or cramping—especially if taken on an empty stomach
  • Possible headache or dizziness in sensitive individuals
  • Occasional skin rash or itching—hypersensitivity reactions
  • Temporary mild changes in menstrual flow—spotting or irregularity
  • Rare mild liver enzyme elevations with high doses

Interactions

Possible interactions include:

  • Hormone-modulating supplements: Indole-3-Carbinol may influence estrogen metabolism; when combined with DIM (DIM), monitor hormone panels to avoid imbalances.
  • Cytochrome P450 substrates: Indole-3-Carbinol induces CYP1A2, potentially reducing levels of medications metabolized by this enzyme (e.g., clozapine); adjust dosing as needed.

Precautions

Before taking Indole 3 Carbinol, confirm none of the following apply to you. If they do, consult your healthcare provider:

  • Individuals with hormone-sensitive cancers: May modulate estrogen metabolism; avoid unless supervised
  • People on thyroid medications: May interfere with hormone levels; monitor TSH/T4
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women: Limited safety data; best to avoid high-dose supplements
  • Those with liver disease: Metabolism may be altered; use under medical supervision
  • Patients scheduled for surgery: Discontinue at least two weeks prior—possible interactions with anesthesia and hormone balance

Studies

These studies provide scientific insights into Indole 3 Carbinol benefits:

No randomized, placebo-controlled trials have evaluated indole-3-carbinol supplementation alone for cancer prevention or hormonal health in humans, despite promising preclinical data.

A small pilot study combining indole-3-carbinol with sulforaphane showed biomarker changes in women at risk for breast cancer, but no RCTs have isolated its effects.

This article was originally published on Stackbb.com, your trusted source for science-based supplement guides.


Important Disclaimer: The information provided on this page about Indole 3 Carbinol supplement is for informational purposes only and has not been reviewed or validated by a medical professional. It is not intended to substitute professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or part of your healthcare regimen. Individual needs and responses to supplements may vary, and what works for one person may not be appropriate for another.