Longevity
Sulforaphane — timing, dose & interactions
Compound from broccoli sprouts that switches on Nrf2, the cell's antioxidant-defense program. How much you absorb depends on the product: glucoraphanin taken with active myrosinase enzyme yields several times more sulforaphane than glucoraphanin alone.
Also known as: Broccoli sprout extract, Glucoraphanin
Timing
When to take it
Take with a meal, at the dose on the label.
Interactions
Sulforaphane with other supplements
No documented supplement interactions in our dataset.
Safety
Medications & health conditions
Broccoli-sprout compounds and the thyroid. Cruciferous compounds have long been suspected of affecting the thyroid, but in a 12-week randomized trial a sulforaphane-rich broccoli sprout drink did not change thyroid hormones or thyroid antibodies. Longer-term data are limited, so mention it if your thyroid is being monitored.
Antioxidants may interfere with cancer treatment. Some chemotherapy and radiation work partly through oxidative damage; high-dose antioxidants could reduce their effect. Discuss every supplement with your oncology team.
Sulforaphane supplements: no safety data in pregnancy. Sulforaphane supplements has not been studied for safety in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Avoid unless your clinician recommends it.
Buying guide
What to look for on the label
Sulforaphane
- Broccoli seed or sprout extract with active myrosinase
- Labels that state sulforaphane yield, not just glucoraphanin
FAQ
Common questions
When is the best time to take Sulforaphane?
Breakfast / Lunch. Take with a meal, at the dose on the label.
Should Sulforaphane be taken with food?
Yes. Taking it with a meal reduces stomach upset.
Sources