Broccoli sprout compound may help lower blood sugar in prediabetes, study finds

A groundbreaking study from the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, published in Nature Microbiology, has found that sulforaphane, a natural compound found in broccoli sprouts, may help reduce blood sugar levels in people with prediabetes.

The findings suggest that sulforaphane’s effects are more pronounced in individuals with certain metabolic profiles and gut bacteria, opening the door for personalized treatments. While experts emphasize that diet and exercise remain key to managing prediabetes, this research offers new hope for targeted interventions.

How Sulforaphane Impacts Blood Sugar in Prediabetes

The study involved 89 adults with elevated fasting blood sugar levels, a critical marker of prediabetes. Participants, aged 35 to 75, were either overweight or obese. Over 12 weeks, they received either a sulforaphane supplement or a placebo in a randomized, double-blind trial.

Key findings include:

✔️ Participants who took sulforaphane experienced a greater reduction in fasting blood sugar than those who took a placebo.
✔️ The most significant improvement was observed in individuals with mild obesity, lower insulin resistance, and well-preserved insulin secretion.
✔️ A subgroup with a specific gut bacterium that activates sulforaphane saw the greatest blood sugar reduction, up to 0.7 mmol/L lower than the placebo group.

According to Dr. Anders Rosengren, senior researcher at the University of Gothenburg:

"Sulforaphane interferes with the liver’s excessive glucose production, helping to maintain lower fasting blood sugar levels. This effect was even stronger in individuals with certain gut microbes that convert sulforaphane into its active form."

Gut Microbiome’s Role in Sulforaphane Effectiveness

One of the most compelling aspects of the study was the role of gut bacteria. Researchers found that individuals with a high abundance of a specific gut microbe experienced a significantly greater benefit from sulforaphane.

Key takeaway:

A healthy gut microbiome may enhance the effectiveness of sulforaphane in blood sugar regulation, reinforcing the importance of gut health in metabolic conditions.

Sulforaphane as a Functional Food – Can You Get Enough from Broccoli?

While broccoli is rich in sulforaphane, consuming enough whole broccoli to match the study’s doses would require eating several kilograms per day—an unrealistic approach. Instead, researchers suggest using broccoli sprout extracts as a functional food supplement.

However, Dr. Rosengren warns that sulforaphane content varies widely in commercial products, so quality and concentration are crucial for effectiveness.

Why Lifestyle Changes Still Matter

Experts stress that while sulforaphane shows promise, lifestyle modifications remain essential. Haley Bishoff, RDN, LD, a plant-based dietitian, advises:

“A healthy gut microbiome is key to blood sugar regulation. Prioritizing a diet rich in prebiotic fiber, fermented foods, and whole foods can support overall metabolic health.”

What This Means for the Future of Prediabetes Treatment

While this study underscores sulforaphane’s potential, experts believe more research is needed to determine who benefits the most and how to optimize its use.

✔️ Personalized nutrition and precision medicine may play a significant role in the future of diabetes prevention.
✔️ Supporting gut health with a balanced diet may enhance natural blood sugar regulation.
✔️ Broccoli sprout extracts could be a promising supplement, but quality control is essential.

As research evolves, sulforaphane may soon be part of a broader strategy for prediabetes management, alongside diet, exercise, and gut health support.