Sulforaphane
Summary
Sulforaphane (Indirect Antioxidant) [DV 800μg] {Half Life = 2.2 Hours} Neutralises toxins, it also calms inflammation in your body. Inflammation has been linked to several kinds of cancer and neurodegenerative diseases, to this degree, sulforaphane has shown to improve the neuro-inflammation symptoms of epilepsy. Repairs and protects liver from damage. It may protect your DNA. Studies have shown that sulforaphane blocks mutations in DNA that lead to cancer, further studies have shown that sulforaphane causes apoptosis in cancer cells.
Sulforaphane is recently discovered and not well quantified, the below sources are confirmed but the DV remains unknown.
Sulforaphane is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. It is a type of isothiocyanate, a group of sulfur-containing organic compounds that have been shown to have various health benefits. Sulforaphane is particularly well-studied for its potential anti-cancer properties and other health-promoting effects.
Sources and Bioavailability
Cruciferous Vegetables: The highest concentrations of sulforaphane are found in broccoli sprouts, which contain significantly more than mature broccoli. Other sources include kale, cauliflower, and bok choy.
Formation: Sulforaphane is formed when the enzyme myrosinase transforms glucoraphanin, a glucosinolate, into sulforaphane. This reaction occurs when the plant is damaged (e.g., chopped or chewed).
Absorption: The bioavailability of sulforaphane can be affected by cooking methods. For instance, steaming broccoli preserves the myrosinase enzyme, enhancing sulforaphane formation, whereas boiling can destroy this enzyme.
Health Benefits
Antioxidant Properties: Sulforaphane induces the production of antioxidant enzymes, which help protect cells from oxidative stress and damage.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: It has been shown to inhibit the activation of inflammatory pathways, thereby reducing inflammation.
Cancer Prevention: Sulforaphane may help prevent cancer through several mechanisms:
Detoxification: It enhances the activity of phase II detoxification enzymes, aiding in the elimination of potential carcinogens.
Cell Cycle Arrest and Apoptosis: It can induce cell cycle arrest and promote apoptosis (programmed cell death) in cancer cells.
Epigenetic Modulation: Sulforaphane can influence gene expression by modifying histones and DNA methylation, potentially suppressing tumor growth.
Cardiovascular Health: Sulforaphane may improve heart health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are risk factors for cardiovascular diseases.
Neuroprotection: Emerging research suggests that sulforaphane may have neuroprotective effects, potentially beneficial in conditions like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases.
Safety and Dosage
Safety: Sulforaphane is generally considered safe when consumed in amounts typically found in food. However, the safety of high-dose supplements has not been extensively studied.
Supplementation: Sulforaphane supplements are available, but the efficacy and safety of these products can vary. Whole food sources are generally recommended for their additional nutrients and synergistic effects.
Research and Clinical Trials
Cancer Research: Numerous studies, both in vitro and in vivo, have demonstrated the potential anti-cancer effects of sulforaphane. Clinical trials are ongoing to better understand its efficacy in cancer prevention and treatment.
Other Conditions: Research is also being conducted to explore the benefits of sulforaphane in conditions such as autism, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodegenerative disorders.
Sulforaphane is a compound of significant interest due to its broad spectrum of potential health benefits. While more research, particularly human clinical trials, is needed to fully understand its effects and optimal usage, incorporating cruciferous vegetables into the diet is a well-supported strategy for enhancing health and reducing disease risk
.
High Sulforaphane Foods (from highest to lowest)
Broccoli Sprouts
Brussels Sprouts
Broccoli
Kale
Cabbage
Rocket
Cauliflower
References
Alexander, H. (2020, April 8). Sulforaphane benefits: How leafy veggies like broccoli and Brussels sprouts may help reduce your cancer risk. MD Anderson Cancer Center. https://www.mdanderson.org/publications/focused-on-health/sulforaphane-benefits--how-leafy-veggies-like-broccoli-and-bruss.h13-1593780.html
Frantz, M. (2023). Targeting mitochondrial dysfunction with nutrients: challenges and opportunities. In Elsevier eBooks (pp. 3–69). https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-323-90256-4.00010-2
Gastric Cancer Foundation. (2023, June 8). Superfoods: Cruciferous vegetables | Gastric Cancer Foundation. https://gastriccancer.org/video/superfoods-cruciferous-vegetables/