SULPHOROPHANE

Sulphorophane

How Sulforaphane Works in the Body

Sulforaphane (SFN) is a compound found in broccoli, broccoli sprouts, kale, Brussels sprouts, and cabbage. When you chew or lightly cook these vegetables, sulforaphane is released. Its main job is to activate Nrf2, sometimes called the “master switch” for your body’s defense systems. When Nrf2 is turned on, it signals cells to:

1. Produce antioxidants like glutathione

2. Turn on detox enzymes (Phase II enzymes, including UGTs)

3. Reduce inflammation and protect cells from damage

In simple terms, sulforaphane helps your cells stay strong, clear out toxins, and manage stress better.

Liver and Bilirubin SupporT

Sulforaphane One of the main reasons sulforaphane might be useful for people with Gilbert’s Syndrome is its effect on UGT1A1, the enzyme that processes bilirubin in the liver. Lab studies show:

• Sulforaphane alone can increase UGT1A1 activity by about 3.7×

• When combined with apigenin (found in parsley, celery, and chamomile), this effect can rise up to 12×

This suggests that sulforaphane could support natural bilirubin clearance, although these results are from lab studies, so the effect in humans is still theoretical.

Sulforaphane also boosts glutathione, the master antioxidant. Glutathione supports UGT enzymes and other detox pathways, helping the liver process bilirubin, hormones, and environmental toxins more efficiently.

Antioxidant and Cellular Protection

Brain, Mood, and Inflammation

Sulforaphane might help reduce neuroinflammation, support mood, and improve mental clarity. Some people notice better focus and energy when consuming cruciferous vegetables regularly, likely due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects of sulforaphane.

By activating Nrf2 and increasing glutathione, sulforaphane protects your cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to aging, inflammation, and chronic disease. It also helps recycle other antioxidants, like vitamins C and E, making your body’s defense systems stronger overall.

Hormone and Estrogen Balance

Sulforaphane may support healthy hormone metabolism, particularly estrogen. By enhancing Phase II detox enzymes, it can help clear excess estrogen and related metabolites. This may support a healthier estrogen-to-progesterone balance and could be especially helpful if liver detox pathways are slower.

Who Might Benefit

Sulforaphane may be particularly useful for people with Gilbert’s Syndrome, supporting UGT1A1 activity and bilirubin processing. It can also benefit anyone looking to support liver detox, boost antioxidants, manage hormone balance, or reduce inflammation. People who don’t eat many cruciferous vegetables may get the most benefit from adding sulforaphane-rich foods or supplements.