Health effects of Sulforaphane

Read on to know how dietary intake of the plant compound sulforaphane affects our health.

Sulforaphane is a compound naturally present in various cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, broccoli, kale, and cauliflower, etc. This compound is rich in sulfur and it has been found to offer various health benefits. Sulforaphane compound is present in an inactive form in these vegetables, which gets activated when they are cut, chopped, or chewed.

Sulforaphane is found in highest concentration in raw vegetables and steaming is the best way of cooking to preserve the highest content of this compound.

Here are the potential health benefits of sulforaphane.

Anticancer

 Sulforaphane offers anticancer benefits by reducing the growth, size, and number of cancer cells.

Heart health

It benefits heart health by reducing inflammation and lowering blood pressure.

Against diabetes

Sulforaphane has been found to effectively reduce fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels, which is highly beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes.

Autism

Regular consumption of sulforaphane has been found to improve the symptoms of autism.

Sun damage

This plant compound has been found to protect the skin against the harmful UV rays.

Brain damage

Sulforaphane has the potential to reduce mental decline and improve recovery after a brain injury.

Constipation

Sulforaphane rich vegetables have been found to improve the symptoms of constipation.

Side effects of consuming sulforaphane

 Supplements of this plant compound have been found to increase the symptoms of diarrhea, gas, and constipation in certain individuals.