Our collective awareness of neurodiversity— the differences in the way our brains work— is expanding in real time. Experts have established that variations in brain development are normal and widespread. But that doesn’t mean that certain variations in brain development, like Autism, dyslexia, and ADHD, are without significant challenges, especially in a world designed for the narrow profile of a ‘neurotypical’ mind.
As we get better at recognizing and celebrating diverse minds, we’re also improving our understanding of the biological forces behind many of these cognitive differences. Inflammation, the microbiome, and detoxification in particular have demonstrated strong influence on brain function. Thanks to a combination of clinical research and anecdotal evidence from those who have experienced its benefits in these areas, sulforaphane is positioned to support cognitive function in a big way.
SULFORAPHANE IMPROVES SYMPTOMS OF AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER
Sulforaphane benefits a range of variations in brain development, including Autism and ADHD, with its ability to lower inflammation, normalize gut function and flora, and support detoxification pathways— three key areas of influence on cognitive health. Studies on the impact of sulforaphane on Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) now offer compelling evidence of its ability to improve hallmark ASD symptoms like repetitive movements, hyperactivity, irritability, and communication difficulties. One placebo-controlled clinical trial found that 64% of participants with ASD showed symptoms that were “much or very much improved” at the end of a 30-week sulforaphane treatment. Another study documented a substantial improvement in ASD-related behaviors that reversed when sulforaphane was discontinued. Yet another study linked sulforaphane-induced changes in the gut microbiota to improvements in ASD symptoms. In general, sulforaphane supplementation in those with ASD has been linked to a reduction in irritability and hyperactivity, and an improvement in social interaction and communication skills.
NEURODIVERSITY IN BROC SHOT’S STORY
Broc Shot co-founder Gracia Walker and her 10-year-old son share a diagnosis of Auditory Processing Disorder, which creates challenges in understanding and interpreting sounds, including spoken words. “A big part of my desire to bring Broc Shot and sulforaphane to others was that it helped me, and it is helping my son present as much more neurotypical, enabling him to be in a general education classroom and to be really thriving today.”
Walker shares that supplementing with sulforaphane is helping her son to be more receptive to other beneficial therapies. “Many of the experts and teachers and support personnel working with him saw that the supplements that he was taking seemed to help him better access the therapies he was receiving. Those things all worked together.” In her daily life, sulforaphane helps Walker increase her focus and attention without the need for excessive caffeine, and over time it has helped her minimize and stop using Adderall.
Through her own extensive research, Walker understood that supplementing with the sulforaphane in Broc Shot impacted the three key areas that are central to supporting cognitive function in herself and her son— inflammation, gut health, and detoxification. “The sulforaphane in Broc Shot is constantly working to nurture the microbiome and to help to protect the gut lining to make that space as healthy as possible. I appreciate that sulforaphane is in defense mode of the gut microbiome all the time.” As a parent, she values that Broc Shot's sulforaphane is natural and doesn't use solvents and additives found in other supplements. “No one needs all of the additives that are used in many supplements, and those of us with neurodiversity and more pronounced sensitivities to chemicals need natural alternatives,” she shares. As research continues, Broc Shot— a top source of active sulforaphane— holds the potential to benefit cognitive function across a range of diverse minds and ages. “The promise that sulforaphane shows to support our cognitive health from our earlier years all the way until our highest level of age would allow us to potentially live stronger cognitive lives,” Walker says.
The better we understand biological influences on brain function, the better we can support neurodiversity. “So many of us have different chemistries and different ways of interacting with our environments,” says Walker. “I love thinking of myself as someone who is perfect just as I am, yet the world was built in a certain way that wasn't exactly made for me. I’m thrilled that our children are growing up in times that celebrate diversity more— especially different types of minds.”