Sulforaphane: Functions and Benefits of the Antioxidant in Broccoli
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O sulforaphane is a powerful antioxidant, which brings several health benefits and is present in many foods. This nutrient promotes anti-inflammatory action and is especially linked to skin health.
In fact, when we eat certain foods, such as broccoli and cauliflower, we ingest glucosinolates In the body, the glucosinolates are transformed into other nutrients, usually antioxidants, such as sulforaphane.
Benefits of sulforaphane
Detoxifying action
The human body naturally gets rid of toxins that can harm it. However, there are compounds that can help this process and one of them is sulforaphane. Basically, a study done by Chinese scientists has shown that by consuming foods like broccoli, which contains this antioxidant, there is an activation of enzymes that help the body to eliminate toxins through urine .
See_also: Bupropion and naltrexone: Obesity drug approved in BrazilThis benefits the health of the whole body (including strengthening immunity), but especially the heart, because these toxins, if not eliminated, remain in the bloodstream and can damage the arteries, the blood vessels, and reach the organ.
Read also: 7 anti-inflammatory foods you should always have on hand
See_also: Galactosemia: What it is, symptoms and what to eatHealthy skin
Most skin problems are due to inflammation, usually caused by toxins - which can come from outside (e.g. air pollution) or inside the body. Therefore, consuming sulforaphane helps prevent acne, the appearance of wrinkles and expression lines (due to the action of free radicals).more serious, such as skin cancer.
Read more: Foods that help prevent acne
Prevents chronic diseases
It is called apoptosis, the natural death of cells in the body. This is a natural process. However, excessive apoptosis can cause neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Therefore, sulforaphane prevents this process from occurring in excess.
Read also: Foods that help prevent prostate cancer
Foods rich in sulforaphane
- Broccoli;
- Cauliflower;
- Spinach;
- Cabbage;
- Arugula;
- Brussels sprouts;
- Cabbage;
- Watercress;
- Mustard leaf;
- Turnip;
- Radish.
Read also: Glutathione: What it is, functions and sources of the antioxidant
