Broccoli Juice: The New Performance Booster for Olympic Athletes

At the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Games, a novel trend has emerged among Olympic athletes: the consumption of concentrated broccoli juice. This beverage, produced by the Swedish company Nomio, has gained traction particularly among European endurance athletes, such as those competing in cross-country skiing. The drink is marketed as a performance enhancer due to its high levels of isothiocyanates (ITCs), compounds believed to lower blood lactate levels. This reduction is significant as it alleviates the burning sensation in muscles during intense physical exertion, enabling athletes to train harder and longer with less discomfort.

Nomio's broccoli shots contain the equivalent of over six pounds of broccoli sprouts compressed into a 60-milliliter serving. The company claims that this concentration of ITCs provides athletes with a substantial edge in performance. The drink is not designed for casual consumption; it is taken in a manner similar to a shot of whiskey, as its taste has been described as reminiscent of "some combination of wood and Dijon mustard." To improve palatability, Nomio incorporates sugar and lemon juice, although the flavor remains challenging for many.

Emil Sjölander, one of the founders of Nomio, highlighted the unique taste of their product, acknowledging that it may not appeal to everyone. He stated, “It tastes oddly like some combination of wood and Dijon mustard.” This candid admission reflects the challenges faced by the company in marketing a product that, while potentially beneficial, is not traditionally appealing.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding broccoli juice, some nutritionists and sports experts express skepticism about its efficacy. Critics argue that while ITCs may offer some benefits, the overall impact on athletic performance remains unproven. They caution athletes against relying solely on supplements, advocating for a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrients.

As the 2026 Winter Olympics approach, the popularity of broccoli juice among athletes may prompt further research into its effects on performance. The ongoing interest in innovative sports supplements suggests that this trend could influence dietary practices not only among elite athletes but also among fitness enthusiasts worldwide.

• “some combination of wood and Dijon mustard.” — Emil Sjölander, Co-founder of Nomio

• “As a result, the beverage helps alleviate the "burning" sensation felt in muscles during intense exercise, allowing athletes to push themselves harder and longer with less pain.” — The Wall Street Journal

In summary, the rise of broccoli juice as a performance supplement at the 2026 Winter Olympics illustrates the ongoing quest for nutritional innovations in sports. While it presents an intriguing option for athletes, the debate over its effectiveness and taste continues.