Cabbage Extract
Also known as: Cabbage extract, Brassica oleracea extract, Cruciferous vegetable extract, Glucoraphanin, Erucin, Sulforaphane
Overview
Cabbage extract, derived from *Brassica oleracea*, is a plant-based dietary supplement rich in glucosinolates, particularly glucoraphanin, which converts to sulforaphane. It also contains vitamins C and K, and fiber. It is primarily used for its potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cardiovascular health benefits. Research suggests it may improve glycemic control, reduce blood pressure, and support detoxification processes. Cabbage extract is available in various forms, including powders and capsules, and is sourced directly from cabbage and related cruciferous vegetables. The quality of evidence supporting its benefits is generally good, with numerous animal and human studies, including systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials.
Benefits
Cabbage extract, particularly its sulforaphane content, offers several evidence-based benefits. It supports cardiovascular health by reducing total and LDL cholesterol levels, as demonstrated in rodent models. Human studies show improvements in glycemic control, with a 12-week RCT indicating that broccoli sprout extract (150 μmol sulforaphane/day) can reduce HbA1c levels in obese patients with type 2 diabetes. Additionally, fermented cabbage extract exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, reducing symptoms of atopic dermatitis in mice. Sulforaphane has also been shown to lower blood pressure and prevent hypertension-associated vascular remodeling in rats. Furthermore, cabbage extracts can restore antioxidant and phase II enzyme levels, particularly in animal models fed a high-fat diet. These benefits are most pronounced in individuals with type 2 diabetes or those at risk of cardiovascular disease.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for cabbage extract revolves around its bioactive compounds, especially sulforaphane. Sulforaphane activates the Nrf2 pathway, a key regulator of cellular defense against oxidative stress. This activation enhances the expression of antioxidant and phase II detoxification enzymes, leading to increased antioxidant activity and reduced oxidative stress. Sulforaphane interacts with the cardiovascular system by reducing blood pressure and improving endothelial function. It also affects glucose metabolism by improving insulin sensitivity. Molecularly, sulforaphane targets the Nrf2 pathway and may influence inflammatory pathways by reducing cytokine levels.
Side effects
Cabbage extract is generally considered safe when consumed in moderate amounts. Common side effects are rare, but some individuals may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or gas, especially with high doses or in those with sensitive stomachs. No significant rare side effects have been documented in peer-reviewed literature. Drug interactions are limited, but caution should be exercised when using cabbage extract with medications metabolized by the same pathways as sulforaphane. Individuals with thyroid issues should be cautious due to the potential goitrogenic effects of cruciferous vegetables. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult healthcare providers before using cabbage extract supplements. It is important to start with lower doses to assess tolerance and monitor for any adverse reactions.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of sulforaphane from cabbage extract is around 150 μmol/day, as demonstrated in studies improving glycemic control. Optimal dosages range from 150 μmol to 225 μmol sulforaphane per day, based on human studies showing improvements in cardiovascular and metabolic health. There is no established maximum safe dose, but high doses above 500 μmol/day are not commonly studied. No specific timing recommendations are available, but it is generally advised to take supplements with meals to enhance bioavailability. Broccoli sprout powder or extract forms are commonly used due to their high sulforaphane content. The presence of myrosinase is crucial for the conversion of glucoraphanin to sulforaphane; raw or lightly cooked cabbage may provide better bioavailability.
FAQs
Is cabbage extract safe to take?
Cabbage extract is generally safe, but individuals with thyroid issues or those taking certain medications should consult healthcare providers before use.
When is the best time to take cabbage extract?
There is no specific timing recommendation, but taking it with meals may help improve absorption of the active compounds.
What kind of results can I expect from taking cabbage extract?
Improvements in glycemic control, cholesterol levels, and blood pressure can be expected over several weeks to months with consistent use.
Is cabbage extract a substitute for medical treatment?
No, cabbage extract is not a substitute for medical treatment but can be used as a complementary dietary supplement to support overall health.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2021.767975/full – This review discusses the potential therapeutic effects of sulforaphane and glucosinolates, particularly in the context of type 2 diabetes. It highlights that sulforaphane can improve fasting glucose and HbA1c levels, suggesting its role in managing glycemic control. The review also touches on cardiovascular benefits and antioxidant properties.
- https://www.mdpi.com/1422-0067/25/2/775 – This study investigates the anti-inflammatory effects of fermented cabbage extract containing nitric oxide metabolites in mice with atopic dermatitis. The findings indicate that the extract reduces symptoms of atopic dermatitis, suggesting its potential as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, the results are based on an animal model and may not directly translate to humans.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33976376/ – This study focuses on the cardiovascular benefits of sulforaphane, using a systematic review and meta-analysis of rodent models. The analysis reveals significant decreases in total serum cholesterol and LDL cholesterol with sulforaphane administration. While promising, the results are limited to animal models and require further validation in human studies.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-cabbage – This article provides a general overview of the nutritional benefits of cabbage, highlighting its high vitamin and mineral content. It discusses the potential health benefits of cabbage, including its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it does not delve into specific research studies or clinical trials.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35766462/ – This research explores the impact of sulforaphane on blood pressure and vascular remodeling in rats. The study demonstrates that sulforaphane administration resulted in reduced blood pressure and prevented hypertension-associated vascular remodeling. These findings suggest a potential role for sulforaphane in managing hypertension, but further research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.
