Back in April I wrote about the use of DIM (diindolylmethane) with respect to Estrogen Metabolite Ratios (DIM-New Thoughts on an Old Story). New research by Dr Jacob Schor indicated that maybe we shouldn’t be using the estrogen metabolite ratio test to measure the “good” vs “bad” estrogen in our body—at least not to determine risk of breast cancer and for the recommendation of DIM to influence this ratio. Well, it seems the old wisdom truly is out; we were barking up the wrong tree.  Further research confirms it–best just to toss that test aside.   However, that led to the lingering question: what to do with DIM?

To read more on the new research on Estrogen Metabolite Ratios, please read this informative post by Dr Keith Block, DIM and Breast Cancer. Thank you Dr Block for the research and the post.

But hold on, don’t toss the DIM.

DIM is a product of cruciferous vegetables and we know what a huge role crucifers play in cancer prevention and treatment. Plus, while estrogen is not the villain it is made out to be (read more about that in my upcoming post), eating cruciferous vegetables will help the liver to break down and eliminate excess hormones as well as toxins. Adding bitter greens, such as arugula and chicory, to salads will also help the liver excrete excess hormones. So eat your crucifers, take your DIM and broccoli supplements, just don’t bother with the estrogen metabolite ratios.

Elyn

~~If you don’t know your options, you don’t have any~~

Elyn Jacobs is a breast cancer survivor, professional cancer strategist, radio talk show host, speaker, and the Executive Director for the Emerald Heart Cancer Foundation. Elyn empowers women to choose the path for treatment that best fits their own individual needs. She mentors women who are coping with issues of well-being associated with breast cancer and its aftermath; she is passionate about helping others move forward into a life of health and wellbeing. Elyn has been featured on CNN Money, Talk About Health and more and has contributed to Breast Cancer Answers as well as written for the Pink Paper, Breast Cancer Wellness, Integrative Oncology Essentials, and she writes the Options for Life column for the Natural Healing-Natural Wellness Newsletter. Elyn lives in New York with her husband and two young boys.

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