Sulforaphane, a compound found in cruciferous vegetables like broccoli, has been investigated as a potential treatment for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) based on its effects on cellular processes such as oxidative stress, inflammation, and synaptic function. The interest in sulforaphane for autism originated from observations that fever can temporarily improve behavioral symptoms in some individuals with ASD; sulforaphane activates similar heat shock responses in the body.

The most notable scientific evidence comes from a 2014 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study conducted at Massachusetts General Hospital and published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. In this study, 44 young men with moderate to severe ASD received either sulforaphane (from broccoli sprout extract) or placebo for 18 weeks. The sulforaphane group showed significant improvements in social interaction, abnormal behavior, and verbal communication compared to placebo, as measured by standardized behavioral rating scales. However, the study had a relatively small sample size and short duration.

Subsequent smaller studies and reviews have reported similar findings but also point out limitations, such as variability in dosing, participant characteristics, and outcome measures. While the initial results are promising, larger and longer-term trials are needed to confirm efficacy and safety. Thus, there is early but incomplete scientific validation for the use of sulforaphane in supporting or treating autism symptoms.