Broccoli cuts stomach cancer risk

Monday April 6, 2009 (foodconsumer.org) -- George H. W. Bush’s opinion of broccoli notwithstanding, there can be no argument over the healthful benefits of this crunchy, cruciferous wonder-plant. Now scientists are saying that not only are mature broccoli heads good for us, but the sprouts, it has been discovered, may help in the reduction of the H. Pylori bacteria that cause stomach ulcers, gastritis and even stomach cancer.

A small study was conducted in Japan (where there is a high concentration of H. Pylori infections) wherein 50 people were given either 2.5 ounces of broccoli or alfalfa sprouts daily for two months straight. The broccoli sprouts kicked it: those who ate them had a 40% reduction in the colonization of the bacteria. Those who consumed alfalfa sprouts showed no improvement.

Researchers at this point are careful not to say that sprouts actually cure H. Pylori; the broccoli sprout group’s pre-study levels of the bacteria returned after they stopped eating the sprouts for two months. In no case were the bacteria completely eradicated.

However, Jed W. Fahey, M.S., Sc.D. (an author of the paper regarding the study), a nutritional biochemist, is quoted in Science Daily as saying, “The highlight of the study is that we identified a food that, if eaten regularly, might potentially have an effect on the cause of a lot of gastric problems and perhaps even ultimately help prevent stomach cancer.”

Back in 2002, it was discovered that sulforophane is a powerful antibiotic against H. Pylori; Fahey says that the sprouts have a higher concentration of sulforaphane than do the mature heads of the plant, hence the study results.

In tandem with the research on adults in Japan, the report also states that mice given broccoli sprout smoothies increased by fourfold the activity of two enzymes that protect cells against oxidative stress. Certainly the research is promising; the H. Pylori bacteria, which are also thought to be a key factor in some stomach cancers, may be prevented by the sprouts.

This is good news, as this bacterium (prevalent in most cases of gastro-intestinal problems) is tough as nails; it manages to thrive amongst stomach acids that rival the strength of car batteries. From helping prevent the onset of H. Pylori to assuaging its attempts to colonize rampantly, even former President Bush would have to declare this plant the “mother of all sprouts.”

(By Rachel Stockton, and edited by Heather Kelley)