Broccoli-Sprout Extract Shows Promise for Easing Autism Symptoms

In a small placebo-controlled trial, sulforaphane supplements eased autism symptoms in nearly half of those treated  Results of a small clinical trial suggest that a supplement derived from broccoli sprouts can ease the core symptoms of autism in some people with the disorder. The chemical – sulforaphane – is best known from studies suggesting that it helps prevent certain cancers. The report appears online in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. The study involved 40 boys and young men, ages 13 to 27, with moderate to severe autism. Of these, 29 were randomly selected to receive the supplement (50 to 150 µmol depending on weight). The others received a look-alike placebo, or “dummy” capsule. Neither the researchers nor the participants and their families knew who received the actual treatment until after the trial concluded. Before starting the trial, the participants’ parents and physicians filled out three standard behavioral assessments that measure sen
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