CYP1A2 is responsible for metabolizing chemicals that are both foreign to the body and not expected to be present in high concentrations.
These xenobiotic chemicals, include elevated sugar levels in the blood, estrogen dominance, toxins as well as polyunsaturated fatty acids – when metabolized by CYP1A2, lowers blood pressure, reduces inflammation and prevents the growth of various tumor cells.
Consuming cruciferous plants activates CYP1A2 enzyme activity. This activity expels excess estrogen from the body. Estrogen levels are directly proportional to the inverse of testosterone (in men) and progesterone (in women). Meaning the more estrogen the less testosterone and progesterone.
Although testosterone and progesterone are secreted by the testes and the ovaries. Most estrogen is converted from testosterone and progesterone; or ingested. The body produces very little estrogen, especially in men.
Hormone balance is very important, not just for reproductive functions and weight control, but, for disease prevention. Hormone imbalance increases the risk of developing cancer.
Brassica, Lepidium and Nasturtium Officinale are various genus of crucifers that stimulate the CYP1A2 enzyme much like insulin to lower blood sugar. Type 2 diabetes can be regulated and eradicated with a balanced regimen of crucifers.
In contrast, the crucifers are paired with Apiaceae plants that act as CYP1A2 inhibitors. These include celery, parsley and cilantro. Unlike pharmaceuticals that force your body to absorb high doses to induce imbalance – whole foods, especially raw juice, allow your body to detect which nutrients to absorb to achieve balance. Here’s a study outlining the effects of both types of vegetables.