Sulforaphane supplement, broccoli-source immune defence support

Broccoli Sulforaphane Glucosinolate, an extract of broccoli

Our dietary supplement Broccoli Sulforaphane Glucosinolate is formulated from a standardised extract of broccoli (Brassica oleracea). Broccoli is part of the family of cruciferous vegetables, along with cabbage, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts, which have for several years been hailed for their health benefits and disease-fighting virtues. Over time, broccoli has thus come to be seen as a ‘superfood’, which is why broccoli extracts are now available to buy in the form of dietary supplements.

Broccoli’s remarkable composition

It is the extraordinary properties of broccoli’s constituents that give it this reputation. Broccoli’s therapeutic benefits are due to certain components such as glucosinolates and the enzyme myrosinase. Prior to being highlighted for their health virtues, these compounds were primarily known for protecting cruciferous vegetables against destructive insects. Research into these defence mechanisms showed that glucosinolates and myrosinase may also have a protective effect on the human body. When the crucifers’ defence mechanisms are in place, myrosinase intervenes by hydrolysing the glucosinolates and converting them into isothiocyanates. These are molecules which are toxic to harmful insects, various fungi and certain bacteria, and which display not only preventive effects against cancer of the prostate and liver and leukaemia, but also oxidative stress-reducing effects in cardiac and kidney tissue, and potential for the body’s defences. Some isothiocyanates have indeed proved effective in the body – protective effects have been noted, in particular, for indole-3-carbinol and sulforaphane which is why our dietary supplement is formulated from a broccoli extract standardised to 10% sulforaphane.

Broccoli’s many protective effects

The substances found in broccoli have been shown to be effective at various levels. On the one hand, molecules such as sulforaphane display bacteriostatic and bactericidal effects against bacteria such as Helicobacter pylori which is involved in the onset of several digestive disorders. On the other, they help reduce oxidative stress in cardiac and kidney tissue. In helping to combat free radical damage, they therefore protect against the development of certain kidney and cardiovascular problems such as hypertension.

Broccoli’s cancer-prevention potential

Its many protective effects have led to broccoli being studied extensively for its potential to prevent certain forms of cancer. These studies show that isothiocyanates, including sulforaphane and indole-3-carbinol, may activate detoxification enzymes such as quinone reductase and glutathione-S-transferase. These enzymes are able to react with a number of endogenous xenobiotic compounds potentially enabling them to neutralise carcinogens. As a result, some scientists believe broccoli may have a preventive role against prostate and liver cancer, amongst others.

An optimal intake of sulforaphane

Our dietary supplement Broccoli Sulforaphane Glucosinolate offers a simple way to capitalise on broccoli’s many health benefits. In particular, it ensures an optimal intake of the active substance sulforaphane, one of the vegetable’s best-studied compounds. It also has one of the highest concentrations of sulforaphane, and is one of the most stable and bioavailable formulations on the market. Our supplement is available in capsule form, at a suggested dose of two capsules a day, which provides 600mg of broccoli extract.