University Archives

Broccoli and amaranth have both been previously studied separately for their respective health benefits.

However, there is limited research on the combined health effects and potential benefits for the community, especially in lowering glucose levels among individuals with diabetes.

The purpose of this study is to investigate how myrosinase activity is affected when amaranth is added to broccoli, along with probiotics, to mimic the naturally occurring gut microbiome. This study aims to determine whether this combination should be recommended for the diabetic community's diet, potentially serving as a food aid in lowering blood glucose levels.

Broccoli is rich in sulforaphane. When chewed and digested, the enzyme called myrosinase converts broccoli glucosinolates into sulforaphane. Sulforaphane is an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancerogenic.

Amaranth, on the other hand, contains squalene, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory effects. Amaranth may reduce oxidative stress and improve insulin resistance, making it a promising dietary component.

Furthermore, this study explores the myrosinase activity in a broccoli-amaranth mixture with Lactobacillus-Bifidobacterium strains by spectrophotometry.