What is Sulforaphane?Sulforaphane is a phytochemical belonging to the family of isothiocyanates, which means it contains the typical NCS group.
DistributionSulforaphane occurs in plants bound to a sugar molecule: sulforaphane glucosinolate. Only after eating will the sulforaphane by released. Sulforaphane glucosinolate is found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage and kale. The richest source of sulforaphane are broccoli sprouts.PropertiesSulforaphane is an antioxidant and stimulators of natural detoxifying enzymes. Sulforaphane can reduce the risk of breast cancer and prostate cancer.
Epidemiological studies have shown that people who eat a lot of cruciferous vegetables have reduces incidences of cancer. Test with animals have demonstrated that feeding reduced the frequency, size, and number of tumors. During the fight against cancer cells our body produces special enzymes, called phase 2 enzymes. Sulforaphane is a phase 2 enzyme inducer, thereby neutralizing carcinogens before they can damage DNA. Sulforaphane inhibits benzo[a]pyrene-DNA and 1,6-dinitropyrene-DNA adducts formation. A study by James D. Brooks et al entitled Potent Induction of Phase 2 Enzymes in Human Prostate Cells by Sulforaphane has shown that sulforaphane induces phase 2 enzyme expression and activity in human prostate cells. This study may help to explain the lower prostate cancer risk with men who consume more cruciferous vegetables.
The antioxidant action of sulforaphane helps to fight high blood pressure. A study by the Tokyo University of Agriculture has shown that persons who eat about 100 g of broccoli sprouts daily during one week had reduces levels of cholesterol.
Research ReviewsPotent induction of phase-2-enzymes in human prostate cells by sulforaphane.
Sulforaphane inhibits extracellular, intracellular, and antibiotic-resistant strains of Helicobacter pylori and prevents benzo-a-pyrene-induced stomach tumors
Synonyms(R)-1-isothiocyanto-4-methyl-sulfonyl butane
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