Sulforaphane (Broccoli Sprout Extract)New
Sulforaphane is an isothiocyanate concentrated in broccoli sprouts that potently activates the Nrf2 antioxidant-response pathway. In a 2017 randomized trial (Axelsson et al., Science Translational Medicine), a concentrated broccoli sprout extract lowered fasting glucose and HbA1c in obese adults with dysregulated type 2 diabetes. Other human RCTs have shown increased urinary excretion of airborne pollutants (Egner et al., 2014) and improved behavioral symptoms in young men with autism spectrum disorder (Singh et al., PNAS, 2014). Bioavailability varies widely between products depending on whether they deliver pre-formed sulforaphane or the glucoraphanin precursor with active myrosinase enzyme.
Mechanism of Action
Sulforaphane covalently modifies cysteine residues on the Keap1 protein, releasing the transcription factor Nrf2 to enter the nucleus and upregulate phase II detoxification and antioxidant genes (glutathione S-transferase, NQO1, heme oxygenase-1). It also suppresses NF-kB-driven inflammatory signaling. Its metabolic effects on glucose control are thought to work partly by downregulating hepatic glucose-6-phosphatase expression via the Nrf2 pathway.
Dosing Protocol
10-40mg sulforaphane equivalent dailymg
Standard starting dose based on research
Therapeutic Range
10
Minimum
40
Maximum
With food, morning
Dosages are general guidelines. Individual requirements vary based on body weight, health status, and specific goals. Start with lower doses and adjust based on response.
Benefits
Primary Benefits
- Nrf2 antioxidant activation
- Detoxification support
- Glucose control
- Anti-inflammatory
Secondary Benefits
Safety Information
Contraindications
Do not use if any of the following apply:
- •Thyroid disorders on high doses (theoretical)
- •Pregnancy (limited data on concentrated extracts)
Drug/Supplement Interactions
May interact with the following. Consult a healthcare provider before combining:
Potential Side Effects
Some users may experience:
This is not a complete list of interactions or side effects. Individual responses vary. Always start with the lowest effective dose and monitor your response. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider.
Quality Markers
Look for these specific quality indicators when sourcing this compound:
- Standardized to verified sulforaphane yield (not just glucoraphanin content)
- Active myrosinase enzyme included (for glucoraphanin-based products)
- Third-party tested
Trusted Certifications
Note: Supplement quality varies dramatically between brands. Cheap supplements often contain fillers, incorrect doses, or contaminants. Investing in quality products from reputable manufacturers is essential for safety and efficacy.
Evidence Profile
Evidence Score
6/10
Moderate Evidence
Some clinical trials with positive results, emerging research
Evidence Scale
8-10
Strong
5-7
Moderate
1-4
Emerging
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