Indole-3-carbinol (I3C) is a substance made by the body upon eating cruciferous vegetables.
It might also boost the immune system, fight off infections, and support liver health.
This means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
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No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
The primary claim about indole-3-carbinol is that if may help prevent certain types of cancer.
Here’s what the research says about the health benefits of I3C.
About half of adults with SLE develop kidney disease.
However, these results are based solely on lab research, so human studies are needed.
Possible Side Effects of Indole-3-Carbinol Supplements
Most people who take I3C tolerate it well.
Always talk to your healthcare provider before taking a supplement.
Dosage and Preparation
No specific safe dosage has been determined for humans.
However, supplement companies suggest varying dosages between 200 to 800 mg per day.
In human studies, doses were generally between 200 and 400 mg per day.
Another way to safely increase I3C is by consuming cruciferous vegetables which naturally contain I3C.
Research is also needed to better understand any potential risks of supplementing with I3C.
Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center.Indole-3 Carbinol.
2005;27(5):1391-1399.
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases.Lupus & kidney disease (lupus nephritis).
The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry.
National Cancer Institute.Cruciferous vegetables and cancer prevention.
