Tiny Greens, Big Impact: The Surprising Potential of Broccoli Sprouts and Sulforaphane

On the quest for optimal health, longevity, and great skin, nature has gifted us with an abundance of powerful compounds found in various plants. One of the most incredible compounds is sulforaphane, which has gained increasing attention for its potential health benefits over the past 20 years.

Sulforaphane is derived mainly from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, broccoli sprouts (these have more than 10 times more!), kale, and brussels sprouts.

What is sulforaphane?

Sulforaphane is a bioactive compound that holds the key to unlocking many health-promoting properties.

It is a naturally occurring chemical which is formed when an enzyme (myrosinase) interacts with a precursor molecule which is found in the cruciferous vegetables mentioned above. When these vegetables are chewed, chopped or crushed this enzyme interacts with another and releases sulforaphane. This same process occurs when freeze dried broccoli sprouts are mixed with water in your stomach or a glass.

What are the health benefits of sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts?

Recent research shows that sulforaphane exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a valuable player in optimising overall health. Studies suggest that it may also reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and neurodegenerative disorders.

Sulforaphane has also been found to support detoxification processes in the body which is why it is also a modern key player in optimal skin health - both inside and out!

It acts as a powerful antioxidant and is known for its ability to combat oxidative stress and protect against environmental aggressors which are everywhere in the modern world! By doing this, it helps to neutralise aging free radicals and reduce the damage caused by UV radiation, pollution and other external nasties.

This protection can contribute to a healthier, more resilient skin barrier, preventing premature aging, sun damage and the development of skin conditions such as acne and eczema.

Other benefits of sulforaphane and broccoli sprouts powerful immune modulating and antimicrobial effects include: 

• Improved digestive health
• Stronger immune system 

Experience the health benefits of sulforaphane and broccoli sprouts

Including sulforaphane rich vegetables into your diet is one way to receive the health benefits of this amazing compound however be mindful that overcooking can degrade/destroy the enzyme (myrosinase) which will then make the sulforaphane unable to be accessed.

Broccoli sprouts are delicious added to salads, stir fries - or just munch on a handful of sprouts with an apple or carrot as a super healthy and nutritious midmorning or afternoon snack.

Supplementing with an active sulforaphane rich product is a great way to ensure you are receiving a therapeutic dose of the compound without any degradation. Over the counter products often don’t include the enzyme which is required to make it active which. This is why it's always best to consult with your health professional to ensure you get the highest sulforaphane containing products.

Sulforaphane and broccoli sprouts in skincare

Sulforaphane is an amazing compound, but unfortunately, it’s unstable and breaks down soon after being created. Thankfully this is enough time to produce all of its wonderful benefits after you eat your broccoli sprouts or take a broccoli sprout supplement. But it means that it’s not shelf stable for skincare products.

The skincare industry is still trying to solve this issue (undoubtably it will involve chemicals that probably won’t be best for your skin!). In the meantime look for skincare products that use high quality broccoli sprout powder that is mixed with water just before applying to your skin so you can get the full benefits of not only sulforaphane but all the other nutrients found in the micro-green powerhouse of broccoli sprouts.  

You might be interested in products that contain broccoli sprouts:

Pomegranate & Broccoli Sprout Face Mask

EnduraCELL BioActive Broccoli Sprout Capsules

EnduraCELL Pure Freeze Dried Broccoli Sprout Powder

Amazing Broccoli Sprout & Pomegranate Juice Benefits for Skin – Nubeean Noosa

Essential Daily Supplement for Amazing Skin Wellness – Nubeean Noosa