Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. It has attracted scientific interest primarily due to its potential effects on estrogen metabolism and its possible role in cancer prevention, including breast cancer. Preclinical studies and some early human research suggest that I3C can promote the formation of less estrogenic metabolites, which may help reduce the risk of estrogen-sensitive cancers, such as certain types of breast cancer. Several small clinical trials have shown that I3C supplementation can alter estrogen metabolism in ways that are hypothesized to be protective against breast cancer, but direct evidence of reduced breast cancer incidence or improved outcomes in humans is limited. Some studies have also examined I3C’s effects on markers of breast health, such as the regression of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, which shares some risk factors and mechanisms with breast tissue changes.

Despite these findings, the current evidence is not strong enough to recommend I3C as a definitive supplement for breast health or breast cancer prevention. Most studies are small, short-term, and focus on surrogate markers rather than clinical outcomes. Larger, long-term clinical trials are needed to confirm any protective effects. Therefore, while there is scientific rationale and some preliminary evidence supporting I3C’s use for the breasts body system, the evidence is moderate at best.

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