Cesanelli · 2026 · Nutrients
A crossover trial comparing broccoli powder with post-exercise recovery
How did broccoli powder intake change recovery from muscle soreness and strength loss after exercise?
Human · double-blind randomized placebo crossover trial
Key findings
Post-exercise recovery measures
In a 15-person placebo crossover trial, time-by-supplement interactions were not significant for any outcome, including muscle soreness, strength, CK, and range of motion.
Detailed results
Intake durations in the abstract and Methods were checked together.
The abstract describes two weeks of intake before exercise, while Methods specifies six days before exercise, three hours before exercise on the day, and four days after. This page follows the detailed Methods schedule.
The manufacturer-confirmed glucoraphanin content of 10 g powder was 320 μg. Actual sulforaphane yield and internal exposure were not measured.
Study design
Participants alternated between two conditions and performed eccentric elbow-flexor exercise. Soreness, strength, CK, and ultrasound measures were assessed before and immediately after exercise, and again at 48 and 96 hours.
- Participants
- 15 participants
The same people experienced powder and placebo conditions - Intake and observation
- Broccoli powder 10 g/day in hot water
GLR 320 μg/dose (as stated in paper)
Seven days before and four days after exercise (Methods) - Measures
- Muscle soreness · strength · CK · range of motion · muscle and tendon structure
Study context
A placebo-controlled trial consuming broccoli powder mixed with hot water. Recovery in muscle soreness, strength, and injury markers was assessed.
Original paper and sources
Short-Term Effects of Broccoli-Derived Glucoraphanin on Recovery from Eccentric Muscle Damage: A Double-Blind Randomized Crossover Study.
- Journal
- Nutrients · 2026 · 18(4): 710
- First published
- 2026-02-23