Indole-3-Carbinol
Mechanism of Action +
I3C is rapidly oligomerized in gastric acid (pH <3) to DIM and higher-order indole oligomers. DIM reaches peak plasma concentrations following oral doses of 200mg (reported Cmax ~104 ng/mL in some pharmacokinetic analyses, though this figure requires independent verification). I3C itself is largely undetectable in plasma post-ingestion. CYP1A1/1A2 induction is the most clinically relevant pharmacokinetic interaction, with implications for drug metabolism. Half-life data for DIM are not well-established in published literature. Bioavailability of I3C per se is low due to pre-systemic conversion.
What is Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C)? +
How does Indole-3-Carbinol work? +
What is the recommended dosage for Indole-3-Carbinol? +
When is the best time to take Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Are there any side effects of taking Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Do I need to cycle Indole-3-Carbinol? +
What is the best form of Indole-3-Carbinol to take? +
Who should take Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Who should not take Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Can I stack Indole-3-Carbinol with other supplements? +
Is Indole-3-Carbinol safe for long-term use? +
Can I get Indole-3-Carbinol from food? +
Is there a difference between branded and generic Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Do I need a loading phase for Indole-3-Carbinol? +
Does Indole-3-Carbinol interact with medications? +
Everything About Indole-3-Carbinol Article
## What is Indole-3-Carbinol?
Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C) is a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower. It is categorized as an antioxidant and is available as a dietary supplement. The provided sources note its presence in over 10 products, indicating some market presence.
## The Science: How Does It Work?
Unfortunately, the provided source materials did not contain scientific information detailing the mechanism of action for Indole-3-Carbinol. Key data regarding its effects on biochemical pathways, enzymes, and cellular receptors were unavailable for synthesis.
## What The Research Says
There was no clinical research, such as randomized controlled trials or meta-analyses, included in the source documents. The primary evidence source, an Examine.com page, was inaccessible (404 error). Therefore, no claims about the efficacy or benefits of Indole-3-Carbinol can be substantiated based on the provided information.
## Dosing Guide
A survey of 9 commercially available products containing Indole-3-Carbinol found that dosages typically range from **100mg to 200mg** per serving. The median dose was 160mg. As no clinical studies were provided, this range reflects market trends rather than clinically validated effective doses.
## Forms Compared
The provided sources did not mention or compare different forms of Indole-3-Carbinol.
## When & How To Take It
Information regarding optimal timing, cycling, or whether to take I3C with food was not present in the source materials.
## Stacking
One product mentioned in the sources combines Indole-3-Carbinol with resveratrol and broccoli seed extract. However, the rationale for this combination and whether it has been studied for synergistic effects was not specified.
## Who Should Take It
The provided information is insufficient to make a recommendation for any specific population.
## Who Should NOT Take It
The provided information did not contain any data on contraindications, safety, or populations who should avoid taking Indole-3-Carbinol.
## The Bottom Line
Based strictly on the provided sources, Indole-3-Carbinol is a supplement ingredient with typical market doses between 100mg and 200mg. However, due to a lack of accessible scientific literature and clinical studies in the source material, no conclusions can be drawn about its mechanism, effectiveness, benefits, or safety.