Broccoli Sprout Extract Lowers Blood Sugar

Broccoli is a member of the cruciferous plant family, and its many health advantages have long been recognized partly because of its sulfur-containing chemicals.

The fasting blood sugar levels of obese persons with type 2 diabetes significantly improved after consuming a chemical contained in broccoli sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables.

It was also discovered that the substance, known as Sulforaphane, decreased glucose production in cultured liver cells and seemed to correct aberrant gene expression in the livers of rats.

The research by Annika Axelsson and coworkers at the Lund University Diabetes Center in Sweden was published in the journal Science Translational Medicine.

Among the many positive effects of broccoli sulforaphane:

The risk of developing cancer is lowered by minimizing exposure to carcinogens and bypassing the body of these substances.

Removal of toxins from the liver (VIP: the active sulforaphane selective phase 2 detoxifying enzyme inducers without triggering the phase 1 enzyme induction, for example, c, cytochrome P450). The potential of anti-carcinogens to stimulate the production of phase 2 enzymes has been shown as a key characteristic of these substances.

• Promote a healthy inflammatory response by stimulating the production of anti-inflammatory, antioxidant enzymes.

• Enhances Glutathione, the predominant intracellular antioxidant

• It gives DNA a chance to defend and repair itself

• Maintenance of an optimal amount of the ulcer-causing H. pylori bacterium ( it is needed to a certain extent but not to the point where it causes stomach ulcers )

Type 2 Diabetes

About 90–95% of all instances of diabetes are classified as type 2, making it the most prevalent form of the disease.

A lack of proper insulin use leads to excessive blood glucose levels and the onset of this disease. Severe consequences, such as heart attack, stroke, nerve damage, and renal failure, may develop in people with type 2 diabetes if their blood glucose levels are not managed.

Although treatments like metformin may help persons with type 2 diabetes regulate their blood glucose levels, Axelsson and colleagues point out that some patients use these drugs owing to significant side effects such as kidney damage.

Therefore, more secure options are needed. Has Sulforaphane the potential to fill this void?

Liver gene expression and blood sugar were both increased by Sulforaphane. Axelsson and colleagues sought to address this topic by developing a genetic signature for type 2 diabetes based on the 50 risk factors previously identified.

Using this signature, the scientists analyzed freely available gene expression data. By doing so, they evaluated the impact of over 3,800 chemicals on the changes in gene expression in liver cells related to type 2 diabetes.

Sulforaphane, a chemical molecule found in cruciferous vegetables, including broccoli sprouts, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, and watercress, was shown to have the most impact, according to the study’s authors. Sulforaphane inhibited glucose synthesis in cultured liver cells. It was shown that when this chemical compound was given to diabetic rats, the liver’s gene expression changed for the better.

Following this, the team conducted a 12-week, randomized, controlled trial of broccoli sprout extract in 97 people who were overweight. A placebo-controlled trial means exactly what it says. Everyone in the adult population had been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes and had poor glucose control.

Fasting blood glucose levels were significantly lower in those who took the broccoli sprout extract than those who did not. Additional studies are required to establish if Sulforaphane helps people with type 2 diabetes, although the results of this one are encouraging.

They are using genetic fingerprints to examine public gene expression data, as Axelsson and colleagues have done, which may be an efficient approach to finding chemicals that might aid in treating diabetes and other disorders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of broccoli sprout extract?

Broccoli sprout extracts reduce glucose levels in the blood. It has been shown in vitro and animal tests that a compound in broccoli sprouts may increase the body’s sensitivity to the hormone insulin, lowering blood sugar—improving articular health.

Do broccoli sprouts help lower estrogen levels?

Sulforaphane levels in broccoli sprouts are 30–100 times higher than in mature broccoli. Sulforaphane’s three incredible effects make it a game-changer: It acts as a natural ” estrogen blocker ” by binding to estrogen receptors and preventing the growth of malignant tissue caused by “bad” estrogens, such as in the case of breast cancer.

What does Sulforaphane do?

Sulforaphane inhibits the growth of cancer cells. That’s significant because it suggests it may make tumors grow more slowly or prevent them from spreading. It’s easy to get your hands on. You don’t have to do anything to gain the health benefits of Sulforaphane found in cruciferous vegetables.

Can Sulforaphane assist in liver detoxification?

By stimulating the production of liver enzymes that break down dangerous toxins, Sulforaphane facilitates the body’s natural detoxification processes and speeds up the disposal of these toxins.

Can Sulforaphane boost testosterone levels?

Type 2 diabetes has been linked to low testosterone levels. In men, Sulforaphane has been shown to boost testosterone.

To what extent does Sulforaphane benefit the kidneys?

Sulforaphane is effective in treating kidney illness by targeting the Nrf2 pathway.

Is there any truth to the claim that eating broccoli may reduce blood sugar levels?

Broccoli is considered a low-glycemic food since it does not significantly increase blood sugar levels after consumption. The Glycemic Index of broccoli is just 15, making it a good choice for those trying to control their blood sugar.

Do sprouts help to lower blood sugar?

However, since their starch content is reduced by 10% during the sprouting process, these foods are low in carbohydrates. As a bonus, they prevent a surge in blood sugar since they contain plenty of fiber. These two factors justify including sprouts in a diet for people with diabetes.

So, how exactly does one take in Sulforaphane?

Cruciferous plants, including broccoli, kale, cabbage, and watercress, are good sources of Sulforaphane. If you want to get the most Sulforaphane out of your diet, try eating raw veggies or cooking them at moderate temperatures with a dash of mustard seeds or powder.

When will I start to feel the effects of Sulforaphane?

Sulforaphane is usually effective within 14 days of treatment.

Will my blood pressure increase with Sulforaphane?

Reduced blood pressure and eradication of cardiac dysfunctions, including cardiac hypertrophy and decreased fractional shortening, are the outcomes of Nrf2 activation produced by Sulforaphane.

Will Sulforaphane cause drowsiness?

Since Sulforaphane boosts melatonin synthesis, it might lead to better sleep. Sulforaphane reduces the inflammatory compound prostaglandin D2. Sulforaphane’s melatonin and anti-inflammatory effects could make it easier to go to sleep.

Have any adverse reactions been reported with Sulforaphane?

At high dosages, Sulforaphane caused significant drowsiness (150-300 mg/kg) and hypothermia (150-300 mg/kg). Deaths (at 200-300 mg/kg), impaired motor coordination (at 200-300 mg/kg), and a loss in skeletal and muscular strength (at 250-300 mg/kg).