What are Broccoli Sprouts?

Broccoli is a form of cabbage, native to Asia Minor and the eastern Mediterranean region. Cultivated in Italy in ancient Roman times, broccoli was introduced to Great Britain around 1720, and brought to the Americas during colonial times. Broccoli sprouts are three to five-day old broccoli plants, known for their many health benefits and consumed by health-conscious individuals since the 1970s.

Benefits of Broccoli Sprouts

It wasn't until 1992 that they gained mainstream popularity, when scientists discovered that broccoli sprouts produce sulforaphane, an important disease-fighting molecule. Broccoli sprouts contain at least 20 times more sulforaphane than full-grown plants. They have very high levels of nutrients and enzymes, as well as antioxidants, minerals, and other nutrients, and have been shown to produce some amazing health benefits:

• Increase energy levels
• Help the body detox
• Strengthen the immune system