What does Rhonda Patrick say about Sulforaphane?
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discussed several benefits of sulforaphane. She noted that sulforaphane activates glutathione transferase and synthase genes, producing a major antioxidant that benefits the brain and vascular system. Consuming broccoli sprouts, which contain significantly more sulforaphane than broccoli, has been shown to activate glutathione in the brain in human studies 1.
Adding mustard seed powder to cooked broccoli, which also contains the myrosinase enzyme needed to form sulforaphane, can increase its levels fourfold, a helpful tip for those who prefer not to eat raw broccoli 1. She mentioned that sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts extract can reduce DNA damage in white blood cells and excrete harmful substances like benzene and acrylene 2.
also highlighted that sulforaphane can protect against brain injury when preconditions are set, for instance in animal studies where it primed stress response pathways, leading to significantly better outcomes after an ischemic stroke 3. Additionally, she spoke about Moringa, a compound similar to sulforaphane, that activates NRF Two, another stress response pathway 4.
She discussed how various plant compounds activate stress response pathways beneficially, such as heat shock proteins and NRF Two pathways. These pathways contribute to a net positive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant response, aid in the clearance of cellular debris through processes like autophagy, and can be activated by stressors like heat and compounds in broccoli sprouts such as sulforaphane 5.
Lastly, weighed in on the normalization of consuming plants in a diet. She argued that the bioavailability and matrix of these compounds when consumed as part of a diversified diet typically prevent toxicity and are beneficial to health. She expressed concern over sensational claims in the blogosphere and emphasized the importance of science-backed evidence 6 7.
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