Evidence supporting the use of: Sulforaphane
For the health condition: Autism

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Sulforaphane, a compound derived from cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, has been investigated as a potential adjunctive therapy for autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The interest in sulforaphane for autism stems from its role as an activator of the Nrf2 pathway, which regulates antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. Several small clinical trials, most notably a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in 2014 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences (PNAS), have suggested that sulforaphane supplementation may lead to improvements in certain behavioral symptoms of ASD in adolescents and young adults. In the 2014 study, 26 young males with moderate to severe ASD received sulforaphane daily for 18 weeks. The treatment group showed statistically significant improvements in behavior, social interaction, and verbal communication compared to placebo. Follow-up studies and open-label extensions have reported similar, though generally modest, benefits. However, the evidence base remains limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and a lack of larger, multi-center trials. Mechanistic studies propose that sulforaphane’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may mitigate some cellular dysfunctions associated with ASD. While these findings are promising, they are preliminary, and sulforaphane is not considered a standard or approved treatment for autism. Larger, well-controlled studies are needed to confirm efficacy and safety. As of now, the evidence supporting sulforaphane’s use in ASD is limited but based on scientific research rather than tradition.

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