Cruciferous vegetables' protective effects against diabetes and cancer
9:24 AM EST, November 17, 2023
Consuming a higher amount of cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, has long since been associated with a reduced risk of diabetes and cancer. Recent research findings offer further insight into this area.
Significance of Sulphuric Compounds
We have known for a while that the anti-diabetes and anti-cancer properties of broccoli can be attributed to its sulphuric compounds, such as glucosinolates and isothiocyanates. These compounds exhibit a wide range of bioactive activities, including antioxidant activity.
New Research on Polysulphides
Very few past studies have explored the content of polysulphides in broccoli sprouts and their significance. In a recent research undertaking, Assistant Professor Shingo Kasamatsu and Professor Hideshi Ihary—both from the Graduate School of Science at Osaka Metropolitan University—examined the number of polysulphides in broccoli sprouts during their germination and growth.
According to the researchers, the total content of polysulphides in broccoli sprouts increased significantly during germination, with a 20-fold increase in multiple sulfides recorded on the fifth day of germination. They also discovered several unidentified polysulphides with an indeterminate molecular structure. This indicates that the abundance of polysulphides may contribute further to the known health benefits of broccoli sprouts.
Dr. Kasamatsu opined, "Further research of these unidentified polysulphides may lead to the discovery of new preventive and therapeutic techniques, including the development of new drugs that could be helpful in cases of neurodegenerative diseases, strokes, tumors, inflammatory conditions, and other diseases linked with oxidative stress." The research was published in the Redox Biology journal.
Why Keep Eating Broccoli?
A single cup of raw broccoli provides 77% of the daily vitamin K needs and 90% of the daily vitamin C requirement, along with substantial quantities of folic acid, manganese, potassium, and sulforaphane.
Furthermore, broccoli contains high levels of plant sterols, compounds that help reduce the body's absorption of LDL (bad) cholesterol, thus lowering its levels. For those who prioritize heart health, this further emphasizes the benefits of including broccoli in their diet.
Consuming broccoli can also positively impact our joints, bones, and immune system.
