Broccovital Myrosinase Broccoli Extract
Also known as: Broccovital Myrosinase Broccoli Extract, Sulforaphane-yielding broccoli sprout extract, Broccoli extract enriched with glucoraphanin and myrosinase
Overview
Broccoli sprouts are a rich source of glucoraphanin, a glucosinolate that converts into sulforaphane (SFN), an isothiocyanate with notable health benefits through the action of myrosinase. This supplement is primarily utilized for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, alongside its potential benefits for cardiometabolic health, including management of type 2 diabetes and reduction of oxidative stress. The efficacy of the supplement is enhanced by the presence of myrosinase, which increases the bioavailability of sulforaphane. Research is ongoing, but available evidence from systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials supports its health claims, indicating significant promise in heart and metabolic health.
Benefits
Broccoli sprout supplementation has demonstrated several key benefits, particularly for cardiometabolic health. A systematic review highlighted significant reductions in systolic (-10.9 mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure (-6.95 mmHg) associated with this supplementation. It may improve glycemic control, especially in non-obese individuals with type 2 diabetes. Sulforaphane's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects further contribute to its health benefits, with clinical significance observed in hypertension management. These effects can typically be noted within weeks to months of consistent use, making it particularly beneficial for diabetic patients and those with hypertension.
How it works
The conversion of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane by the enzyme myrosinase is a crucial biochemical process. Sulforaphane then activates the Nrf2 pathway, enhancing antioxidant defenses, and inhibits NF-κB, leading to reduced inflammation. It has a positive effect on endothelial function, improving cardiovascular health, and aids metabolic processes related to blood sugar control, thereby affecting various body systems in a beneficial manner.
Side effects
Broccoli sprout extracts are mostly safe for consumption, with few adverse effects reported. Common side effects occurring in more than 5% of users include loose stools, flatulence, nausea, and headache, while less frequent issues (1-5%) comprise diarrhea and gastrointestinal symptoms. Rare reactions are not well-documented, but individual variability exists. Caution is advised when combined with medications affecting blood sugar and blood pressure, and those with allergies to cruciferous vegetables should consult their healthcare provider. Pregnant or breastfeeding women are also encouraged to seek medical advice prior to starting supplementation due to insufficient research in these demographics.
Dosage
Recommended dosages for broccoli sprout extract typically range between 20 mg to several grams per day, with common advice placing the optimal daily dose around 6 grams, providing approximately 137.1 μmol of glucoraphanin. While there is no established maximum dose, higher dosages should be approached with caution. Timing is flexible; however, taking the extract after breakfast may enhance absorption. It is advisable to prefer formulations containing active myrosinase for better bioavailability. Individual absorption can vary based on the supplement form and the health of the gut microbiome.
FAQs
Is Broccoli extract safe to consume?
Generally considered safe, but may cause gastrointestinal upset in some. Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions.
When is the best time to take the supplement?
Though timing is flexible, taking it after breakfast may improve absorption.
What results can I expect from supplementation?
Users often observe improvements in blood pressure and glycemic control within several weeks to months of consistent use.
Are all broccoli extracts equally effective?
No, effectiveness can vary; it's crucial to choose extracts that contain active myrosinase for proper sulforaphane production.
Research Sources
- https://brieflands.com/articles/jjnpp-129402 – This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the effects of broccoli sprout supplementation, revealing significant reductions in systolic and diastolic blood pressure, alongside mixed results on glycemic control. Adherence to PRISMA guidelines ensured high-quality reporting.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2021.748433/full – A randomized controlled trial demonstrated improvements in fasting plasma glucose and HbA1c levels in non-obese dysregulated diabetics taking broccoli sprout extract over 12 weeks, showcasing the potential of this supplement in managing diabetes.
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2022.1077271/full – This experimental study indicated that glucoraphanin capsules led to promising health benefits, substantiated by controlled methodology and adequate sample size.
- https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371%2Fjournal.pone.0140963 – Research highlighted the enzymatic conversion of glucoraphanin and its effects, further underscoring the importance of the myrosinase enzyme in enhancing sulforaphane bioavailability.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2019/2716870 – This review examined various clinical trials confirming the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of sulforaphane and its relevance in the context of chronic diseases.