What sulfur-containing compounds found in kale are converted into active isothiocyanates for detoxification support?
Answer
Glucosinolates
As a member of the cruciferous family, kale supports the body's inherent ability to process and eliminate environmental toxins through specific chemical pathways within the liver, known as phase I and phase II detoxification. The dietary components responsible for initiating this support are sulfur-containing compounds called glucosinolates. When metabolized within the body, these glucosinolates yield biologically active compounds, primarily isothiocyanates. Research has focused extensively on these isothiocyanates due to their potential beneficial role in aiding these critical liver pathways necessary for neutralizing and clearing toxins.
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