Ep. 45- Sulforaphane, broccoli sprouts, and phytonutrients with Dr. Jed Fahey
Apr 28, 2022
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Dr. Jed Fahey, the researcher specializing in sulforaphane and phytonutrients, discusses the benefits of sulforaphane seen in clinical trials, which foods contain the most sulforaphane, and the importance of phytonutrients for gut and overall health.
Consuming broccoli sprouts or supplements high in sulfurophane can have numerous health benefits, including preventing chronic diseases and inhibiting replication of certain viruses.
For individuals interested in supplementing their sulfurophane intake, it is important to choose reputable brands and consider growing broccoli sprouts at home for maximum freshness and sulfurophane content.
Deep dives
Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts and Sulforaphane
Broccoli sprouts, rich in sulfurophane, have been found to be exceptionally beneficial for health. Sulfurophane is a compound that acts as a detoxifier and antioxidant in the body, helping to protect against oxidative stress and inflammation. It activates the NRF2 pathway, a nuclear transcription factor that regulates the expression of many enzymes involved in the body's antioxidant and detoxification response. Clinical studies have shown that consuming broccoli sprouts or supplements high in glucoraphanin (sulfurophane precursor) can have numerous health benefits, including preventing chronic diseases like cancer, metabolic disorders, asthma, cardiovascular disease, and even inhibiting replication of certain viruses like the coronavirus. While broccoli sprouts and fresh broccoli are the best sources of sulfurophane, frozen broccoli can also provide some benefits. It is important to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables to get a range of beneficial phytochemicals for optimal health.
Choosing Reputable Supplements
For individuals interested in supplementing their sulfurophane intake, it is important to choose reputable brands. Companies like Thorne, Neutromax, and Zimogen offer high-quality supplements containing glucoraphanin or sulfurophane. These supplements have been tested for purity and potency, ensuring they provide the desired health benefits. Additionally, organic produce is recommended when consuming broccoli sprouts to minimize exposure to pesticides. However, growing broccoli sprouts at home is an excellent and cost-effective option, as store-bought sprouts often deteriorate quickly. By growing your own sprouts, you can ensure freshness and maximize sulfurophane content.
The Importance of Eating a Variety of Fruits and Vegetables
While broccoli sprouts and sulfurophane are highly beneficial, it is crucial to consume a wide variety of fruits and vegetables for optimal health. Different plant foods contain diverse phytochemicals, each with their own unique biological activities. By eating a variety of plant-based foods, individuals can benefit from a range of these phytochemicals, such as polyphenols found in tea, coffee, and cacao. Instead of focusing on specific 'superfoods,' the key is to maintain a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and plant-based foods, promoting overall health and well-being.
In today's episode we discuss:
- Phytonutrients in food and why they are good for the gut microbiome
- Benefits of sulforaphane see in clinical trials
- Which foods contain the most sulforaphane
Dr. Fahey's website: https://www.jedfahey.com
To work 1:1 with Erin: erin@nutritionrewired.com
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