“DIM is a phytonutrient (plant nutrient) found in cruciferous vegetables. These include cabbage, broccoli, bok choy, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, kale, kohlrabi, mustard, rutabaga, and turnip. These plants have been cultivated for thousands of years and were initially used for their medicinal benefits.”

annarborholistichealth.com

Before you run for the hills because you don’t like the foods mentioned above, you might like to know that you can take it in supplement form! Read on to find out how DIM alleviates PMS.

My Personal Experience With DIM

Something I’ve noticed over the years is that I get much more depressed during PMS time. Like very down, extremely tired, moody, headachey, all doom and gloom. It will feel like I hate every little thing and every single person. It’s a pretty rough time. But then the second PMS time is over I’m like…

So a doctor told me about this supplement DIM (Diindolylmethane) to help with allieviating those depressive PMS symptoms every single month. As per usual I am a skeptic until something is proved otherwise. I ordered this from Amazon and even though it says you won’t get benefits right away I did within 2 weeks of taking it. I knew it was PMS time yet I felt…happy. It was strange actually, I thought, ‘why am I so happy right now…this is weird.’ It has been a few months since I started taking it and I plan to keep doing so!

The supplement I am taking is Nature’s Way DIM-Plus you can find it on Amazon.

Benefits of DIM

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) can bring about a range of physical and emotional symptoms, often disrupting the daily lives of many women. While there are multiple approaches to managing PMS symptoms, this supplement has gained attention for its potential benefits. Let’s explore how DIM works and its possible effectiveness for alleviating PMS symptoms.

1. Balancing Hormones:

One of the key mechanisms behind DIM’s effectiveness for PMS lies in its ability to help balance hormone levels in the body, specifically estrogen. DIM is derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage, and works by regulating estrogen metabolism. It assists in converting more potent forms of estrogen (such as estradiol) to less potent forms (such as estriol), leading to a more balanced hormonal environment. This rebalancing may contribute to a reduction in PMS symptoms related to estrogen dominance.

2. Reducing Estrogen Dominance Symptoms:

Estrogen dominance occurs when there is an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone, typically resulting in symptoms such as breast tenderness, bloating, mood swings, and irritability. DIM’s ability to modulate estrogen metabolism may aid in mitigating the effects of estrogen dominance, thus reducing associated PMS symptoms. By promoting a healthier estrogen profile, DIM may help restore hormonal equilibrium and alleviate specific symptoms related to estrogen dominance.

3. Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties:

DIM possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, both of which can play a role in managing PMS symptoms. Oxidative stress and inflammation contribute to the severity of PMS symptoms, including headaches, cramps, and mood swings. By reducing oxidative stress and dampening inflammation, DIM may help alleviate these symptoms, providing relief to individuals experiencing PMS discomfort.

4. Support for Liver Detoxification:

An efficient liver function is crucial for hormonal balance and the elimination of excess hormones from the body. DIM promotes liver detoxification by stimulating specific enzymes involved in the breakdown and elimination of estrogen and other toxins. This detoxification process helps maintain a healthier hormonal balance and may contribute to reduced PMS symptoms linked to hormonal fluctuations.

5. Mood Stabilization and Emotional Well-being:

PMS often brings about emotional symptoms such as irritability, depression, and anxiety. Research suggests that DIM can help support mood stability by influencing neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. By enhancing the activity of these neurotransmitters, DIM might contribute to an improved sense of well-being and a reduction in emotional symptoms associated with PMS.

While research on the specific effects of Diindolylmethane (DIM) for PMS is still limited, its potential benefits stem from its ability to balance estrogen metabolism, reduce estrogen dominance symptoms, and support liver detoxification. Additionally, DIM’s antioxidant, anti-inflammatory properties, and influence on mood-regulating neurotransmitters may further contribute to its potential effectiveness in alleviating PMS symptoms. However, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding any supplements to your routine, particularly if you have any underlying medical conditions or are taking medications.

For other tips in supporting your mental health, click here.

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/dim-supplement