Loading ...
Broccoli sprout extract contains sulforaphane, a phytonutrient that has anticancer and antibacterial properties. Sulforaphane is a potent inducer of enzymes that protects against cancer-causing chemicals. The concentration of sulforaphane in broccoli sprouts is approximately 20 to 50 times greater than it is in mature broccoli.
In a recent Japanese study, scientists evaluated the effect of broccoli sprout extract and selenium (which has potential as an anticancer agent) against prostate cancer cell lines. They discovered that selenium-enriched broccoli sprout extract was superior to normal broccoli sprout extract in inhibiting cell proliferation, reducing prostate-specific antigen (PSA) secretion, and inducing apoptosis of prostate cancer cells. (Abdulah 2009)
Investigators at Stanford University in California explored the impact of sulforaphane against prostate cancer cell growth and life cycle. Their analyses demonstrated that sulforaphane both inhibited prostate cancer cell growth and induced arrest of the life cycle. They also concluded that sulforaphane appears to be the main active ingredient in broccoli sprouts and thus it may be an appropriate source for sulforaphane in studies. (Bhamre 2009)
No recommended dose of broccoli sprout extract has been established, and no significant side effects have been noted. Consult your healthcare provider before taking broccoli sprout supplements.
References
Abdulah R et al. Selenium enrichment of broccoli sprout extract increases chemosensitivity and apoptosis of LNCaP prostate cancer cells. BMC Cancer 2009 Nov 30; 9:414
Bhamre S et al. Temporal changes in gene expression induced by sulforaphane in human prostate cancer cells. Prostate 2009 Feb 1; 69(2): 181-90
