Lower Blood Pressure and Fight Cancer with Broccoli

Back in 2004, researchers conducting an animal study linked glucoraphanin, a compound present in broccoli sprouts, to reduced blood pressure risk, cardiovascular disease, and stroke. The broccoli sprouts were found to increase tissue antioxidant defense mechanisms, lower inflammatory response, and improve cardiovascular health.

This was especially interesting since most research on broccoli has been in connection with anti-cancer properties, which is actually what I want to share today.

More potent broccoli

Scientists have discovered how broccoli compounds are used by the body. The University of Illinois scientists evaluated how sulforaphane, another broccoli compound, is absorbed by intestinal bacteria in rats and transferred to the blood stream. This discovery has lead scientists to question the possibility of enhancing the activity of colon bacteria to increase broccoli’s potential to prevent cancer.

Do you think we should tamper with broccoli?

The thought of tampering with nature always concerns me. I tend to prefer leaving the foods I consume in the form nature intended. However, there may be benefits to make modifications at times. However, I remain skeptical. What do you think?

How much broccoli

To reap the cancer fighting benefits, it’s recommended you consume 3 to 5 half cup broccoli servings each week. If researchers are able to improve the body’s sulforaphane absorption you may have to eat less broccoli to see the benefits.

This is a great example of how minor diet changes can have a significant impact on your health. Three to five half-cup servings of broccoli each week is not all that much.

All the best,
Lisa Nelson RD
7 Natural Ways to Lower Blood Pressure
http://lowerbloodpressurewithlisa.com