Diindolylmethane (DIM)
A metabolite of indole-3-carbinol (I3C), a phytochemical found in cruciferous vegetables. DIM affects the way in which estrogens are broken down in the body. Supplementing with DIM increases the proportion of inactive (C-2 hydroxylated) metabolites relative to active, potentially carcinogenic (C-16 hydroxylated) ones. Ultimately, this could help reduce the risk of breast cancer in women. DIM can also inhibit the growth of prostate cancer cells.
DIM is recommended in bodybuilding circles to prevent gynecomastia (gyno, or “bitch tits”), as well as reduce the water retention and puffiness that are signs of excess estrogen.
Calcium D-Glucarate
The calcium salt of D-glucaric acid, which is a naturally occurring metabolite in the human body. D-glucaric acid is also found in a number of fruits and vegetables, especially cruciferous vegetables (cabbage, broccoli, etc.).
D-glucaric acid may act as an anti-cancer nutrient, due to its ability to facilitate the detoxification and excretion of carcinogenic compounds. Although calcium d-glucarate has been tested in cell cultures and rodents, research in humans is limited. It does, however appear to be both non-toxic and well-tolerated in large doses.
Super CitriMax®
A proprietary Garcinia cambogia extract standardized for 60% hydroxycitric acid (HCA) made by InterHealth Nutraceuticals, Inc. Super CitriMax is used primarily as an ingredient in fat loss supplements. Super CitriMax appears to be both safe at the recommended dose, as well as mildly effective.
See Paul’s review: “Citrimax / Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA): Does Citrimax Block Carbs?” for more information.
Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)
The active ingredient in Garcinia cambogia. HCA is an inhibitor of ATP-citrate lyase, an enzyme needed for the de novo synthesis of fatty acids. Garcinia cambogia extracts standardized for HCA are often added to fat loss supplements, although their efficacy is debatable.
See Paul’s review: “Citrimax / Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA): Does Citrimax Block Carbs?” for more information.
Garcinia cambogia
A tree native to Southeast Asia. The fruit is used in traditional medicine as well as a food. The rind is rich in hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which can inhibit ATP citrate lyase, a key enzyme in the synthesis of fatty acids. Garcinia cambogia extracts are often added to fat loss supplements for this reason, as well as its reputed ability to suppress appetite. Its effects on fat loss are debatable, however…a large scale study on 135 subjects showed no significant effects.
See Paul’s review: “Citrimax / Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA): Does Citrimax Block Carbs?” for more information.
3-Beta-Hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one
Synonym for DHEA.
