Mounting Evidence Pegs Broccoli as One of Nature’s Most Health-Promoting Foods, Tackling Hypertension, Cancer, and More
Posted on: September 24, 2012
By Dr. Mercola
Mounting scientific studies have demonstrated that broccoli is one of nature’s most valuable health-promoting foods. Science has proven time after time that Mother Nature is the best physician, and food is the best medicine.
A recent study, published in the American Journal of Hypertension,1 adds to the mounting scientific evidence about broccoli’s noteworthy health benefits. A compound in broccoli, glucosinolate, produces a metabolite called sulforaphane that can significantly improve your blood pressure and kidney function, according to this latest animal study.
Sulforaphane is an organic sulfur compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, horseradish and arugula – but it’s highest in broccoli sprouts.
Sulforaphane has been shown to have antidiabetic and antimicrobial properties, and also kills cancer stem cells, which slows tumor growth. Researchers believe eliminating cancer stem cells is key to controlling cancer.
This is something current chemotherapies cannot do, but food can! This latest research confirms broccoli’s benefits go beyond cancer prevention.
In this 2012 study, hypertensive rats with impaired kidney function were given sulforaphane. The natural compound improved the rats’ kidney function and lowered their blood pressure by normalizing a process called DNA methylation.
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