Indole-3-carbinol is one of the major
anticancer substances found in cruciferous (cabbage family) vegetables. It is a member of the class of
sulfur-containing chemicals called glucosinolates.1 It is formed from parent
compounds whenever cruciferous vegetables are crushed or cooked.2 3
Indole-3-carbinol has been
used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the
individual health concern for complete information):
Who is likely to be deficient?
As indole-3-carbinol is not an essential nutrient, no deficiency state exists.
How much is usually taken?
Based upon preliminary studies it is estimated that the minimum amount required for the
prevention of breast cancer is 300 to 400 mg
daily.4
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No side effects from indole-3-carbinol have been reported.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with indole-3-carbinol.
References:1. Stoewsand GS. Bioactive organosulfur phytochemicals in Brassica
oleracea vegetables—a review. Food Chem Toxicol 1995;33:537–43.
2. Broadbent TA, Broadbent HS. The chemistry and pharmacology of
indole-3-carbinol (indole-3-methanol) and 3-(methoxymethyl)indole. [Part I]. Curr Med
Chem 1998;5:337–52.
3. Broadbent TA, Broadbent HS. The chemistry and pharmacology of
indole-3-carbinol (indole-3-methanol) and 3-(methoxymethyl)indole. [Part II]. Curr Med
Chem 1998;5:469–91.
4. Wong GY, Bradlow L, Sepkovic D, et al. Dose-ranging study of
indole-3-carbinol for breast cancer prevention. J Cell Biochem Suppl
1997;28–29:111–6.