Author: Stephanie Figon, MS, RDN, LD

Founder of NutriScape.NET. As a dietitian since 1992, Steph Figon has had experiences in consulting, 15 years in clinical, and has operated a private practice nutrition counseling office for since 2011. Connect on Linkedin

Broccoli Sprouts & Sulforaphane: Detox, Prevent Cancer, and Protect Your Heart

Broccoli Sprouts


Are you looking to add a nutritional powerhouse to your diet? Look no further than broccoli sprouts. These tiny, sprouts are packed with essential nutrients and offer serious health benefits. In this article, we will explore the properties of broccoli sprouts and how they can enhance your well-being. Join us as we dive into the world of broccoli sprouts, discover their health-promoting qualities, and show you what you need to get the benefits of broccoli sprouts incorporated into your daily routine. Let’s unlock the potential of these miniature green wonders and take your nutrition to the next level.

What Are The Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts?

  • Detoxification Support: Sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts can help the body’s detoxification process, potentially protecting against various diseases.
  • Potential Anti-Cancer Properties: The sulforaphane found in broccoli sprouts may help prevent the development of cancer by inhibiting enzymes that are involved in cancer and tumor growth.
  • Boosts Brain Health: Emerging research suggests that sulforaphane may have neuroprotective effects, potentially helping to maintain memory and cognitive function, and protect against diseases like Alzheimer’s.
  • Supports Gut Health: Preliminary research shows that broccoli sprouts may improve gut health by reducing inflammation and promoting a healthy balance of bacteria in the gut.
  • Antioxidant Activity: Broccoli sprouts are high in antioxidants, including the powerful sulforaphane, which can help protect the body against damage from harmful free radicals.
  • Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Sulforaphane may also have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases related to inflammation, like heart disease.
  • Supports Heart Health: Some studies suggest that sulforaphane can help maintain healthy blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
  • Helps Manage Diabetes: Some studies suggest that sulforaphane might help control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes.
  • Rich in Nutrients: Broccoli sprouts are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber, and are known to have higher nutrient levels than mature broccoli.

Sulforaphane In Broccoli Sprouts Increases Glutathione-The Master Antioxidant

Sulforaphane from broccoli sprouts helps increase the body’s level of the master antioxidant, glutathione. Sulforaphane turns on the antioxidant genes that replenish our glutathione.

Glutathione is an essential compound known for its antioxidant activity. Glutathione neutralizes harmful free radicals, which can damage cells and contribute to aging and disease. Glutathione is also crucial for the detoxification processes in our liver, helping in the elimination of toxins from the body.

Furthermore, glutathione contributes to the proper function of immune cells, helping maintain a robust and effective immune system. It may also slow down the aging process by reducing oxidative stress. Glutathione is also pivotal for mitochondrial health, as it protects these cell “powerhouses” by neutralizing damaging free radicals and oxidative stress.

Notably, glutathione is believed to have a protective effect on brain health and is being researched for its potential to slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Lastly, preliminary research suggests that it might help reduce melanin production, hinting at potential skin-lightening effects.

Can Broccoli Sprouts Affect Your Brain Function?

Maybe. One study used brain scans to look at whether sulforaphane could influence glutathione levels in specific areas of the brain. They saw a positive link between blood and glutathione levels in the thalamus of the brain after treatment with sulforaphane. Daily oral intake of sulforaphane consistently increased the brain’s overall glutathione levels. [PMC5981770]

A Deep Dive Into Intricate Details

For intricate detail and a deep deep dive into the compelling science behind sulforaphane and broccoli sprouts, watch this video by nutrition researcher Dr. Rhonda Patrick.

Grow Broccoli Sprouts At Home

Broccoli is a source for sulforaphane, but broccoli sprouts are possibly as much as 50 times as concentrated a source. Fresh sprouts are not easy to get at the supermarket because they are so perishable. You can easily sprout your own broccoli seeds for a continuous fresh supply of broccoli sprouts. Other sprouts are good for you, but because of the massively higher levels of sulforaphane and its effect on your ability to detoxify compounds in your body, you’ll want to make broccoli sprouts a part of your daily plan.

All you need is a set of sprouting jars and seeds. Sprouts will keep well in the refrigerator for several days. Rinsing the sprouts is very important.

Broccoli Seed– Amazon

Broccoli seeds can be ordered by the pound. This allows you to have sprouts on hand every day.

Sprouting Jars or Lids– Amazon

Any glass quart jars will work as long as you have a method of draining and rinsing the sprouts daily. If you don’t have any, here’s a link:

Maybe you have the jars, but just need the special lids:

To Sum It Up

Broccoli sprouts offer a convenient and nutrient-packed addition to your diet, promoting overall health and well-being. Their rich content of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds makes them a powerful superfood. Incorporating broccoli sprouts into your meals is a great way to boost your nutrition and support various aspects of your health. When it comes to buying broccoli sprouts, you can explore local farmers’ markets, and grocery stores, or even grow them at home. Remember to choose fresh, organic sprouts for the best quality and flavor. So, embrace the goodness of broccoli sprouts and enjoy the benefits they bring to your table.

Best Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe: Quench Your Thirst for The Minerals You Need

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Electrolyte drinks are a go-to for maintaining hydration and energy, especially after intense workouts or during hot weather. Buying single servings can be costly, but our homemade electrolyte drink recipe is a low cost and convenient solution. With all ingredients available on Amazon, you can easily make a flavorful, balanced beverage at a much lower cost. This recipe not only tastes great but also boasts an ideal electrolyte profile for optimal hydration and recovery. Enjoy a delicious, healthful drink without overspending, right from the comfort of your home.

Homemade Electrolyte Drink Recipe

  • 4 cups water
  • Lemon Juice Powder (1 lemon)
  • 1/4 tsp Potassium Chloride
  • 1/2 scoop Magnesium Glycinate
  • 1/4 tsp real sea salt Himalayan salt
  • 1 TBSP raw honey 

Order What You Need Online

Quart Jars For Mixing

Quart canning jars offer a versatile, environmentally-friendly solution for various health and wellness activities. For instance, they are ideal for mixing electrolyte drinks, allowing for precise measurement and easy shaking. They provide ample space for sprouting seeds, facilitating adequate ventilation and sunlight exposure, which are vital for growth. Glass jars, unlike some plastic containers, do not contain harmful chemicals like BPA, which can leach into food and beverages over time, And don’t fall for the “BPA-Free” labeling. It usually means they replaced BPA with a chemical that might be even worse. This makes them a safer option for long-term food and drink storage. Using glass canning jars, you can ensure your practices are not just beneficial for your personal health, but for the planet’s health too, reducing plastic waste and contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for your electrolyte drinks:

Lemon Juice Powder from Microingredients

Potassium Chloride

Potassium is a mineral that we don’t get enough of. The RDA for potassium for adults is 4,700 milligrams per day. People in the US don’t get enough potassium, which is why the Dietary Guidelines for Americans identifies potassium as a “nutrient of public health concern”. Adult men average only 3,016 mg and women get only 2,320 mg per day.

A quarter-teaspoon serving of potassium chloride salt substitute contains about 800 milligrams (mg) of potassium, or about one-sixth of the daily requirement. *


KIDNEY WARNING: People with kidney disease can’t clear extra potassium from the blood, so, for them, it can cause heart arrhythmia or even sudden cardiac death if their kidney problems are severe or their intake of potassium from food and supplements is very high.


Pure Magnesium Glycinate by Microingredients

Half the population or more are estimated to be deficient in magnesium because of low intake. Magnesium is needed for hundreds of cellular reactions. Magnesium glycinate dissolves well and is not associated with digestive issues unless higher doses are taken. This recipe will provide 200 mg of elemental magnesium per quart.

Himalayan Sea Salt — Amazon

Are Veggie Chips or Straws Healthier Than Potato Chips?

Nutrition experts say some ostensibly good-for-you veggie chips and straws are just junk food in disguise.

Source: Are Veggie Chips or Straws Healthier Than Potato Chips?

Print Recipe
4 from 1 vote

Sausage & Kale Stir Fry

Easy 30 Minute Kale & Sausage Stir Fry is a great way to increase your vegetable intake. It was originally published by Andy, a registered dietitian and food blogger at beautifuleatsandthings.com.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time10 minutes
Total Time30 minutes
Servings: 6 people
Calories: 224kcal

Ingredients

  • 1 lb turkey smoked sausage cut into pieces
  • 1 whole green bell pepper sliced
  • 1 whole red bell pepper sliced
  • 1 whole yellow bell pepper sliced
  • 1 small onion sliced
  • 1 bunch kale stems removed
  • 3 tbsp oil
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp. garlic powder
  • 2 tsp creole seasoning
  • Salt/pepper to taste

Instructions

  • Heat a large skillet to medium heat and add oil. Add in bell peppers, onions, and garlic to skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes.
  • Add smoked sausage to skillet and cook until slightly browned. Add kale and seasonings, and cook until kale has wilted.
  • Season with salt and pepper. Enjoy!

Notes

Nutritional Information: 6 Servings, Calories 221, Carbohydrates 11g, Fat 15g, Protein 11g, Saturated Fat 3g, Fiber 1g, Sugars 0g

Nutrition

Calories: 224kcal | Carbohydrates: 15g | Protein: 13g | Fat: 14g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 61mg | Sodium: 1142mg | Potassium: 95mg | Fiber: 3g | Calcium: 0mg | Iron: 0mg