Dual Action Cruciferous Vegetable Extract with Resveratrol

The very hormones we need to stay young can cause adverse effects as we age. Consumption of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, can favorably alter one's hormone profile.

Scientists have identified specific extracts from cruciferous vegetables that modulate hormones in a way to help maintain healthy cell division. For instance, animal studies have shown that the cruciferous vegetable extract indole-3-carbinol (I3C) modulates estrogen hormones by favorably changing the ratio of protective 2-hydroxyestrone versus the damaging 16-hydroxyestrone.¹Indole-3-carbinol also induces phase I and II detoxifying enzymes that can help neutralize estrogen metabolites and xenobiotic estrogen-like environmental chemicals.²Human studies support the beneficial role of I3C in positively altering estrogen metabolism.³ Di-indoyl-methane (DIM), a phytonutrient found in cruciferous vegetables, has been shown in animal studies to help maintain normal levels of a potentially damaging estrogen called 4-hydroxyestrone.⁴

Indole-3-carbinol shows great potential in preventing cancer, especially hormone-related cancers such as breast and prostate. I3C is works both as an antioxidant and as a cancer fighter. Research on I3C dates to the 1960s when it was investigated for its actions against chemical carcinogens. Since that time, researchers have been able to show that I3C has powerful and diverse ways of stopping cancer. While the break-down products of I3C may act unpredictably by themselves, when taken as I3C they are beneficial for preventing, and possibly treating, hormone-related cancers. The data is so compelling, it has provoked normally reserved researchers into such praise as, ³I3C has tremendous potential in the treatment and prevention of cancer, particularly estrogen-enhanced cancer. (Meng Q, et al. 2000. J Nutr 130:2927-31). Although that comment was directed towards I3C¹s estrogen-blocking potential, I3C has equally important actions against all types of cancer.

A summary of studies shows that this vegetable extract:

Increases the conversion of estradiol to “weaker” (2OHE) estrogen, which has been shown to reduce breast cancer incidence
Works in estrogen receptor negative breast cancer cells.
Stops human cancer cells from growing (54-61%) and provokes the cells to self-destruct (apoptosis).
Inhibits MCF7 human breast cancer cells better than tamoxifen under laboratory conditions.
Protects against the environmental toxin, dioxin.
Restores p21 tumor suppressor gene.
Provides antioxidant protection.

The glucosinolates are major constituents of cruciferous vegetables that have been shown to promote normal apoptosis and induce the expression of the beneficial p53 gene via an estrogen-independent action.⁵

Watercress contains isothiocyanates, but in a broader spectrum than does broccoli. The primary isothiocyanate precursor (PEiTC) in watercress functions via four specific mechanisms to maintain healthy cell division.⁶ Extracts from rosemary enhance liver metabolism of estradiol and estrone,⁷ inhibits the formation of DNA adducts,8 and have been shown to impede estrogen-induced growth promotion in certain tissues.⁷

Based on a growing body of evidence that cruciferous vegetable extracts (in addition to I3C) provide bountiful health benefits, Life Extension has reformulated its I3C supplements to more closely resemble what one would obtain from a vegetable-rich diet.

For those weighing less than 160 pounds, just one capsule per day of Dual-Action Cruciferous Vegetable Extract with Resveratrol provides optimal potencies. Those weighing over 160 pounds should consider taking one capsule twice a day.

1. Biochem Pharm. 2002, 64;393-404.
2. Toxicol Appl Pharm. 2001 Jul 15;174(2):146-52.
3. J Natl Cancer Inst. 1997 May 21;89(10):718-23.
4. Cancer Detect Prevent. 2004;28:72-9.
5. Carcinogenesis. 2002 Apr;23(4):581-6.
6. Mol Cancer Ther. 2003 Oct;2(10);1045-52.
7. Carcinogenesis. 1998 Oct;19(10):1821-7.
8. Carcinogenesis. 1995 Sep;16(9):2057-62.

Supplement Facts

Serving size 1 capsule
Servings per container 60
Amount per serving
Indole-3-Carbinol	80 mg
Broccoli (Brassica oleracea l.) Super Concentrate Extract (plant and sprouts [standardized to 4% glucosinolates (16mg)]	400 mg
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale) 4:1 Extract (leaf)	100 mg
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis) Extract (leaves) [standardized to 20% diterpenic compounds (10 mg) and providing carnosic acid/carnosol]	50 mg
Resveratrol [from Red Grape (Vitis vinifera) Extract (whole fruit) and Polygonum cuspidatum Extract (root)]	20 mg
DIM (Di-indolyl-methane)	14 mg
Other ingredients: gelatin, magnesium stearate, maltodextrin, rice flour, titanium dioxide.

This product contains NO wheat, yeast, gluten, corn, or dairy. Contains NO sugar, artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, or preservatives.

Dosage and Use

One capsule daily for individuals weighing up to 160 pounds.
Those weighing over 160 pounds, take two capsules daily.
This product can be taken with or without food.

Caution
May interfere with oral contraceptives. If pregnant or intending to become pregnant, do not use this product. Do not use if taking antacids, H2-receptor blockers (e.g. Zantac®), or proton-pump inhibitors (e.g. Nexium®), as these drugs may impede the conversion of I3C to active metabolites.

Warnings

Keep out of reach of children.
Do not exceed recommended dose.
If you have a bad reaction to this product, discontinue use.
When using nutritional supplements, please inform your physician if you are undergoing treatment for a medical condition or if you are pregnant or lactating.

Warning: These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Please consult with a healthcare professional before starting any diet or exercise program. Some of these products are not recommended for individuals under the age of 18.

This page was last modified on Wednesday July 30, 2008