In recent years, I have experimented with a potent plant compound proven to be an effective therapeutic agent in a variety of health contexts: sulforaphane. Found in cruciferous vegetables–especially broccoli sprouts–sulforaphane is a potent activator of the NRF2 pathway, which “regulates the expression of cytoprotective proteins that protect against oxidative stress due to injury and inflammation” (source).
Of note for sulforaphane is her discussion with the world’s foremost sulforaphane researcher, Dr. Jed Fahey, who has pioneered sulforaphane research at Johns Hopkins for several decades.
I’m not sure whether I’m proud or embarrassed to admit: I’ve listened to this podcast (below) too many times to count.
Sulforaphane may be a powerful part of a coronavirus prevention regime–or, potentially, a coronavirus treatment plan. Obviously, the compound has not been tested specifically for the virus, and I am not a doctor. However, I believe the evidence for taking sulforaphane as part of a healthy regime is compelling.
For prevention, sulforaphane may help boost an aging immune system, clear damaged lungs, and induce powerful detoxification pathways.
As a potential treatment, sulforaphane has shown promise in inhibiting interleukin 6, the pro-inflammatory cytokine responsible for the dreaded cytokine storm of coronavirus.
Perhaps the best way to consume sulforaphane is by eating broccoli sprouts. A good alternative is a quality supplement with pure sulforaphane, like Prostaphane, which is only available in France.
Rhonda Patrick takes this supplement.
Another option is a supplement that supplies glucoraphanin, a precursor to sulforaphane. Glucoraphanin is converted into sulforaphane in the body in the presence of an enzyme, myrosinase (which can be found in mustard seeds). Fahey recommends Avmacol, which I’ve taken to great (anecdotal) success. I consider this supplement a core part of my family’s health regime, and I encourage all my loved ones to take it–especially now.
The podcast linked below mentions the positive effects of supplementation lasting several days. I took one capsule every two or three days.
More on sulforaphane. And Rhonda Patrick’s podcast with Jed Fahey…