Sulforaphane (spelt sulphoraphane in British English) is a molecule within the isothiocyanate group of compounds that exhibits anticancer, anti-diabetic and antimicrobial properties. It also enhances the phase two detoxification pathway in the liver. Sulforaphane has also been found to block mammary tumour formation in rats.
Glucoraphanin and myrosinase react and transform into sulforaphane in the body and block a key destructive enzyme that damages cartilage. Consuming plenty of these cruciferous vegetables can protect the joints and help to treat arthritis.
Sulforaphane may prevent breast and prostate cancer. It also is known to lower LDL cholesterol levels and blood pressure if consumed regularly.
Sulforaphane improves the liver’s ability to detoxify carcinogens, heavy metals and in the body ingested through smoking tobacco or pollution in the air. It does this by activating enzymes that take up these toxins and flushes them out in the urine. Heavy metal toxicity especially mercury, can cause migraines so it is useful to try additional sulferaphane rich foods to help with this condition.
Sulforaphane inhibits extracellular, intracellular and antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori and prevents benzo-a-pyrene-induced stomach ulcers and tumours.
The richest form has been found to come from broccoli sprouts and so this is a useful addition to the daily diet for all brain disorders. Broccoli sprouts can be grown from seed at home and added raw to meals or sandwiches etc like a salad green.
The precursors for sulforaphane production are found in brassicas and regular consumption can boost the immune system, prevent spina bifida in newborns if consumed during pregnancy.
Its powerful properties also improve antioxidant capacity, glutathione synthesis, mitochondrial function and will also lower neuro-inflammation.
Natural sources of sulforaphane in alphabetical order
- Broccoli
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Cauliflower
- Chinese cabbage (bok choy or pak choi)
- Collard greens
- Cress
- Horseradish
- Kale
- Kohlrabi
- Mustard greens
- Radish (especially daikon)
- Rapeseed
- Rocket
- Shepherd’s purse
- Swede
- Turnip
- Wasabi
- Watercress
NOTE: Broccoli sprouts are the richest source of sulforaphane.
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Bone and joint disorders
- Brain and mental health disorders
- Cancer
- Dementia
- Diabetes
- Heart disorders (high LDL cholesterol)
- High blood pressure
- Immune system disorders
- Intestinal disorders (stomach ulcers)
- Liver disorders
- Migraines
- Nature cures for babies
- Nerve disorders
- Pregnancy and childbirth
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