Daijiworld Media Network- Gothenburg
Gothenburg, Feb 27: Researchers from the University of Gothenburg, Sweden, have discovered that sulforaphane, a natural compound found in broccoli sprouts, could play a role in reducing blood sugar levels in individuals with prediabetes.
The study, published in Nature Microbiology, found that sulforaphane's effects were more pronounced in people with specific metabolic traits and gut bacteria composition. While these findings indicate potential for personalised diabetes treatment, experts emphasize that a balanced diet and regular exercise remain key factors in managing prediabetes.
Prediabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are higher than normal but not high enough for a type 2 diabetes diagnosis. Prior research in 2017 indicated that high doses of sulforaphane significantly lowered blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
In this latest study, 89 individuals aged 35 to 75, who had elevated fasting blood sugar along with overweight or obesity, participated in a 12-week clinical trial. They were randomly assigned either sulforaphane supplements or a placebo, with neither the researchers nor the participants aware of the group assignments.
At the end of the study, 74 participants successfully completed the trial. Researchers found that those who consumed sulforaphane experienced a greater reduction in fasting blood sugar levels compared to those in the placebo group.
The study noted that the effect of sulforaphane was most pronounced in participants with:
• Mild age-related diabetes
• Lower BMI (within the study context)
• Lower insulin resistance
• Less prevalence of fatty liver disease
• Lower insulin secretion
Dr Rosengren, one of the lead researchers, stated,
“We also found that a subgroup of people with mild obesity and well-preserved insulin secretion showed even greater benefits. Additionally, individuals with higher levels of a specific gut bacteria, which converts inactive sulforaphane into its active form, had an enhanced response.”
The third phase of the study focused on gut microbiota and its role in blood sugar regulation. Researchers identified a specific bacterium that interacts with sulforaphane, enhancing its blood sugar-lowering effect.
Findings revealed that:
• On average, those who took sulforaphane had a 0.2 millimoles per litre drop in fasting blood sugar levels.
• In individuals with mild obesity, low insulin resistance, and reduced insulin secretion, the drop was 0.4 millimoles per litre.
• The most significant reduction, 0.7 millimoles per litre, was observed in participants who also had the specific gut bacteria.
Experts caution that while these findings are promising, lifestyle modifications remain the primary strategy for managing prediabetes.
“Prediabetes affects 5-10% of the adult population, and many individuals remain unaware of their condition,” said Dr Rosengren. “People with a family history of type 2 diabetes, unhealthy eating habits, lack of exercise, and high BMI are at higher risk.”
Haley Bishoff, RDN, LD, a plant-based dietitian and owner of Rutsu Nutrition, noted:
“Sulforaphane is a potent plant compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli. It is well-known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and cancer-fighting properties. The research suggests potential benefits of broccoli sprout extract in lowering blood sugar levels, but the greatest effects were observed in individuals with low insulin resistance and healthy gut microbiota.”
While sulforaphane presents exciting possibilities for precision treatment of prediabetes, experts stress that nutritious eating, regular physical activity, and weight management remain the foundation for long-term blood sugar control.