Broccoli Extract for Alcoholism
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests whether broccoli extract can reduce inflammation and gut issues caused by alcohol consumption and poor diet. Broccoli extract may improve gut health and lower inflammation due to its rich antioxidant properties. Participants will take either broccoli extract tablets or placebo tablets for 28 days. The trial seeks older adults who consume at least 8 alcoholic drinks a week and struggle to maintain a healthy diet. As an unphased trial, it offers a unique opportunity to contribute to research that could enhance dietary health solutions.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications, but you cannot participate if you have used chronic anti-inflammatory drugs or antibiotics in the last 7 days.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that broccoli sprout extract, rich in sulforaphane, offers safety and health benefits. Sulforaphane helps reduce inflammation and acts as an antioxidant. Studies have found that broccoli sprout supplements can improve liver health and protect against liver damage, particularly in individuals with slightly elevated liver enzyme levels.
In mice, broccoli sprout extract protected against alcohol-induced liver damage, suggesting potential benefits for humans. A study on broccoli sprouts' safety found them generally well-tolerated, with most people experiencing no major side effects.
Overall, evidence supports that broccoli sprout extract is safe and may reduce inflammation and protect the liver, especially in those with poor diets and alcohol use.12345Why do researchers think this study treatment might be promising?
Most treatments for alcoholism involve medications like naltrexone, acamprosate, or disulfiram, which work by altering brain chemistry or causing unpleasant reactions to alcohol. However, broccoli extract is unique because it harnesses sulforaphane, a compound found naturally in broccoli, which may help protect the brain and reduce cravings by boosting the body’s antioxidant defenses. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it offers a natural alternative with potentially fewer side effects and a novel mechanism of action that targets oxidative stress linked to alcohol use disorder.
What evidence suggests that broccoli extract supplementation might be an effective treatment for alcoholism?
Research shows that broccoli sprout extract, rich in sulforaphane, might improve liver health. One study found that sulforaphane supplements improved liver function in adults with slightly elevated liver enzyme levels. Additionally, animal studies suggest that broccoli sprout extract can protect the liver from alcohol-induced damage. This trial will test sulforaphane tablets, taken by participants in the experimental group, to evaluate potential benefits. The extract may also reduce inflammation and improve gut health by balancing gut bacteria. Overall, these findings suggest that broccoli sprout extract could benefit people with alcohol-related health issues.12367
Who Is on the Research Team?
Aline Zaparte, PhD
Principal Investigator
Postdoctoral Fellow
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 50 who have a poor diet (HEI score below 51) and consume at least 8 alcoholic drinks per week, with an AUDIT-C score greater than 8. It's not suitable for those who don't meet these specific alcohol and dietary criteria.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either sulforaphane or placebo tablets, taking 2 tablets a day with a meal for 28 days
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Broccoli Extract Supplementation
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center in New Orleans
Lead Sponsor
National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK)
Collaborator