This is why we grow broccoli sprouts.
What is Sulforaphane?
Sulforaphane is a sulfur-rich isothiocyanate found in cruciferous vegetables, like broccoli and broccoli sprouts, cabbage, bok choy, kale, and cauliflower.
When sulforaphane is eaten, it binds to a protein inside our cells that sparks the increased production of a variety of different enzymes that help cells resist toxic substances, including carcinogens.
Sulforaphane is a powerful antioxidant, meaning it rids the body of oxidative build up and stress. (Oxidation occurs from free radicals in the body reacting easily with other molecules, which can lead to DNA damage). One of the many powers of sulforaphane is that it prevents that oxidative damage to our DNA.
Some sulforaphane is actually destroyed when it gets heated, so try and eat your broccoli sprouts raw and without any cooking.
How to Grow Broccoli Sprouts
Place 2 tbsp of seeds in mason jar and soak in water for 12 hours.
Put mesh lid on mason jar and drain out all of the water through the lid. Do not remove mesh lid.
Rotate the jar to get most seeds to stick to the sides of the jar.
Set jar upside down on kickstand to drain excess water.
Rinse the seeds with filtered water 3 times per day.
Repeat: Rinse with water, drain them, rotate the jar to stick the seeds on the sides, and lay upside down to dry.
Research
Let's look at some of the many research that's been conducted to allow us to reach these conclusions.
SULFORAPHANE
That's the name of the phytonutrient in broccoli sprouts that we're reaaaally chasing.
Broccoli sprouts are the most concentrated form of natural sulforaphane we can eat.
That's why we grow them. And eat them. As often as we can.
Sulforaphane is Beyond Powerful
The crazy thing about sulforaphane is how incredibly potent and how powerful of an effect it actually has on the body.
Research indicates that sulforaphane is beneficial in maaany, many ways in the body, including:
Antitumor formation
Anti-inflammatory
Protects our DNA
Aids digestion
Supports heart health and reduces risk of cardiovascular disease
Reduces blood sugar, improving affects of type 2 diabetes
Protects the brain against damage
Slow tumor growth
Neutralize toxins with high antioxidant levels
Improve symptoms of autism
