Sulforaphane: A Natural Compound with Powerful Health Benefits
Sulforaphane is a naturally occurring compound found in cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and kale. It is produced when the glucoraphanin glucosinolate in these vegetables is broken down by the enzyme myrosinase. Sulforaphane is a potent antioxidant and has been shown to have a wide range of health benefits, including:
- Cancer prevention: Sulforaphane has been shown to inhibit the growth of cancer cells in a variety of studies. It is thought to work by activating Nrf2, a protein that helps to protect cells from damage.
- Heart health: Sulforaphane can help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, which can reduce the risk of heart disease. It can also help to protect against oxidative damage to the heart.
- Brain health: Sulforaphane can help to improve cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. It is thought to work by increasing the production of antioxidants and by stimulating the growth of new nerve cells.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Sulforaphane has potent anti-inflammatory effects, which can help to relieve pain and inflammation. It is also thought to be beneficial for people with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
- Other benefits: Sulforaphane has also been shown to have a number of other health benefits, including:
- Improved liver health
- Protection against allergies
- Reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
- Improved gut health
How is Sulforaphane Made?
Sulforaphane is made when the glucoraphanin glucosinolate in cruciferous vegetables is broken down by the enzyme myrosinase. This can happen when the vegetables are chewed, cooked, or fermented. The amount of sulforaphane that is produced depends on the type of vegetable, the way it is prepared, and the individual’s ability to produce myrosinase.
For example, broccoli sprouts contain much higher levels of sulforaphane than mature broccoli. This is because broccoli sprouts have higher levels of glucoraphanin and myrosinase*. Cooking broccoli can also increase the amount of sulforaphane that is produced, but only if the vegetables are cooked briefly. Overcooking broccoli can destroy the glucoraphanin and myrosinase, and therefore reduce the amount of sulforaphane that is produced.
Sulforaphane in Health Supplements
Sulforaphane is also available in health supplements. These supplements typically contain either glucoraphanin or sulforaphane itself. Glucoraphanin supplements need to be taken with myrosinase in order to be converted into sulforaphane. This can be done by taking the supplement with food that contains myrosinase, such as broccoli or horseradish. Sulforaphane supplements do not need to be taken with food, as they already contain the myrosinase enzyme.
The amount of sulforaphane that is typically found in health supplements ranges from 10 to 100 milligrams per serving. The recommended dosage of sulforaphane varies depending on the individual’s age, health status, and other factors. It is important to talk to a healthcare professional before taking any health supplement, including sulforaphane.
Safety of Sulforaphane
Sulforaphane is generally considered to be safe when taken in recommended amounts. However, some people may experience mild side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. If you experience any side effects after taking sulforaphane, stop taking the supplement and talk to your healthcare professional.
*Here is a more detailed explanation of glucoraphanin and myrosinase:
- Glucoraphanin: Glucoraphanin is a glucosinolate that is found in cruciferous vegetables. It is a relatively inert compound, meaning that it does not have any health benefits on its own. However, when it is broken down by myrosinase, it forms sulforaphane, which is a compound with a number of health benefits.
- Myrosinase: Myrosinase is an enzyme that is found in cruciferous vegetables. It is responsible for breaking down glucosinolates, such as glucoraphanin, into their active forms. Myrosinase is typically found in the same cells as glucosinolates, but it is not activated until the cells are damaged. This is why chewing, cooking, or fermenting cruciferous vegetables can increase the amount of sulforaphane that is produced.
It is important to note that sulforaphane is not the only beneficial compound found in cruciferous vegetables. Other glucosinolates, such as indole-3-carbinol and diindolylmethane, also have health benefits. Additionally, cruciferous vegetables are a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber, all of which are important for overall health.
Sulforaphane Supplements
BroccoMax, Myrosinase Activated Sulforaphane Glucosinolate, 60 Veggie Caps UK