Broccoli for Stomach Ailments
May 23rd, 2009
Consuming two to three ounces of broccoli sprouts or broccoli per day may protect against the onset of stomach cancer and ulcers, according to a new Japanese study.
Diets that include daily amounts of broccoli have previously been proven to reduce the risk of cancer of the lung, bladder, skin, and esophagus. Although a small study, findings indicate broccoli or broccoli sprouts can prevent cancer.
Sulforaphane, the chemical in broccoli, produces a protective effect against Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium which contributes to gastric cancer and stomach ailments. Sulforaphane, a natural antibiotic, can lower levels of H. pylori. The Japanese study appears in the April issue of Cancer Prevention Research.
The H. pylori bacterium is contagious, spreading through person-to-person contact. In the United States, an estimated 30 percent of individuals are infected.
Higher rates of H. pylori occur in the Japanese population due to economic conditions and overcrowding. In Japan, an estimated 90 percent of individuals are infected with the bacterium.
The Japan-based study included 48 infected individuals. Half ate alfalfa sprouts daily, which do not contain sulforaphane, while the other half ate 70 grams of broccoli sprouts per day. Following an eight week time span, tests indicated no reduction in H. pylori infection among those who ate alfalfa sprouts. Those individuals who consumed daily amounts of broccoli sprouts had significantly lower levels of the bacterium infection.
Study findings indicate that levels of H. pylori, a carcinogen and infectious agent, can be reduced by including daily amounts of broccoli or broccoli sprouts in the diet. Broccoli can reduce the chances of getting stomach cancer and ulcers.
While high levels of sulforaphane are produced in broccoli sprouts, the mature broccoli plant also contains significant levels of the natural antibiotic. Sulforaphane produces an enzyme in the liver that combats the cancer-causing bacterium. Sulforaphane also causes additional cells to actively reduce cancer-causing agents.
As little as two to three ounces of broccoli per day added to the diet can produce a protective effect against the harmful bacterium.
For information about nutrition for health and wellness call Dr. Richard Browne, Acupuncture Physician, at (305) 595-9500..
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