Indole -3 - carbinol useful in the preventiion of benign tumors

Indole -3-carbinol is a chemical which can be found at relatively high levels in cruciferous vegetables ( cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, brussels sprout, etc.). It has been found to be very effective in the prevention of benign and malignant tumors. The first direct evidence to prove the anticarcinogenic nature of indole - 3 - carbinol was claimed by Dashwood, in 1989.

From then, researchers have emphasized on the process by which indole-3-carbinol carries its protective function. This chemical inhibits the G1 growth of cancer cells. In fact, the G1 growth, in every single cell in the human body represents the major period of the cell cycle, and is characterized by the synthesis of enzymes required for DNA replication. Therefore, by inhibiting the G1 phase, indole-3-carbinol inhibits the DNA replication.

Nevertheless, excessive consumption of indole-3-carbinol( especially as a supplement) is proscribed, due to its side-effects on estrogen balance.

But for now, ladies, feel free to integrate cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprout in your daily diet, for they are rich in anticarcinogenic substances, and healthy as well!