Sprouting Broccoli Seeds...But Why?

What on earth is Sulforaphane?

Recently on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, guest Dr. Rhonda Patrick discussed an amazing Isothiocyanate compound called Sulforaphane. Listen here.

Why should I care?

According to the latest research in human and animal trials, Sulforaphane has been shown to:

-Slow cancer growth. PubMed Study
-Lower DNA damage by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation.
-Activate the NRF2 Pathway, which is involved in everything from excreting carcinogens to fighting inflammation to protecting your skin from UVA damage. PubMed Study
-Reduce heart disease biomarkers in Type II Diabetics for oxidized LDL, triglycerides, and antherogenic index. PubMed Study
-Aid in the treatment of depression. PubMed Study

Ok you got me, but how expensive are these supplements?

The goods news is the most concentrated and bioavailable form is found in something you can easily and inexpensively grow at home. Broccoli sprouts contain between 10-100x the amount of Glucoraphanin, the precursor to Sulforaphane, than related mature plants.  

How hard are they to grow?

Truly it's extremely easy. Begin by purchasing seeds from an online retailer, such as Seedsnow.com, or a local health foods store. Add one or two tablespoons of seeds to a large mason jar and top with a screen or a sprouting lid found HERE. After a quick rinse, soak the seeds overnight, with the water level an inch or two above the seeds. Drain the water the next morning and for a few days following, rinse twice a day keeping the jar out of direct sunlight. Make sure to allow the rinse water to completely drain from the jar.  I like to store the jar inverted in my kitchen drying rack. After 4-5 days, place sprouts in a bowl of water, allowing the remaining seeds to float to the top. Strain then dry, using paper towels or a salad spinner. That's it!

BONUS!

Love this instructional video.

Dr. Rhonda Patrick explaining how to boost the broccoli sprout sulforaphane content by 3.5 times.