Research tells us that a low level of 2-hydroxyestrone and a high level of 16 alpha-hydroxyestrone is not desired. DIM works by helping to increase 2-hydroxyestrone, and therefore improves the 2/16 hydroxyestrone ratio. DIM supplementation improves the estrogen ratio in a favourable direction that protects both men and women without the negative effect of raising 4 hydroxyestrogen.