Yet another reason why eating your veggies, particularly broccoli, is so good for you. Research has identified a compound in broccoli that can block a defective gene that is related to the growth of cancer tumors. In other words one of the benefits of broccoli is it can effectively slow cancer growth.
Earlier work has shown the cancer fighting potential in this crunchy, leafy green as well as its veggie cousins cauliflower and watercress. Experts have known for some time that these foods appear to bring down the risk of some cancers, and that compounds in the veggies can even kill some cancer cells, but how it all worked remained a mystery. Until now.
A new study has identified compounds known as isothiocyanates (ITCs) in the cruciferous vegetable family including broccoli, that appear to block what's known as mutant p53 genes that are related to cancer growth. This gene is a tumor suppressor and seems to play a big part in helping cells stay healthy and safe from cancer, but when should this gene become damaged (or mutates) it can't provide this protection.
Mutations to the p53 gene are implicated in almost half of all cancers in humans.
The effects of ITCs on gene p53 were studied for different human cancer cells in the lab. Researchers found that ITCs were able to remove the damaged versions of the p53 gene, while bypassing the healthy genes. Cells with mutated p53 genes are also able to resist many chemical cancer treatments. The potential for new medications based on these findings are intriguing.
Science knows that isothiocyanates help to prevent cancer in three ways...
1. They don't let carcinogens get activated.
2. They counter the poisonous effects of carcinogens that have been activated.
3. They speed the removal of carcinogens from the body.
Broccoli does have an especially large amount of isothiocyanates as well as other valuable nutrients like fiber, vitamin C, calcium and other carotenoids. It's one of the most commonly eaten members of the cruciferous family, and is being widely studied. This veggie, like most, is at its best when prepared on the day it is purchased, eaten raw or cooked; it's delicious and good for you too.
Members of the cruciferous (also known as the cabbage) family add a whole lot of crunch and flavor to all kinds of foods, things like coleslaw, veggie stir-fry, soups, stews and salads. If the taste is too bitter, consider preparing your veggies differently, such as slow cooking or adding lemon or vinegar to the mix.
Beyond eating lots of these veggies, you can help protect yourself from cancer by making healthy lifestyle choices. Exercise regularly. Don't smoke or drink alcohol to excess. Protect yourself in the sun. Learn all you can about carcinogens in the environment and do what you can to limit your own exposure. And most important of all, be sure to have all the exams and screening tests your doctor recommends, as these can, and do, save lives.
If future studies confirm the findings on isothiocyanates and cancer this very well might pave the way for new treatments to slow cancer growth.
View the original article here
No comments:
Post a Comment