Sulforaphane is a type of isothiocyanate that has blood sugar-reducing properties. This plant chemical is produced through an enzyme reaction when broccoli is chopped or chewed (5).
Test-tube, animal, and a few human studies he shown that sulforaphane-rich broccoli extract has potent antidiabetic effects, helping enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar and oxidative stress markers (6, 7).
Broccoli sprouts are concentrated sources of glucosinolates such as glucoraphanin. Research suggests that these compounds help promote insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes when supplemented as a powder or extract (8, 9).
Additionally, eating cruciferous vegetables may reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, but more research is needed (10, 11).
The best way to enhance the ailability of sulforaphane is to enjoy broccoli and sprouts raw or lightly steamed or add active sources of myrosinase, such as mustard seed powder, to cooked broccoli (12).