Broccoli and other cruciferous vegetables may have the potential to protect people against respiratory inflammation that causes asthma, according to new research.
A study published in the journal Clinical Immunology suggests a chemical in broccoli called sulforaphane helps boost antioxidant enzymes that protect against free radicals.
Free radicals are produced from several types of pollution and may lead to inflammation that causes respiratory problems including asthma.
“We found a two to three-fold increase in antioxidant enzymes in the nasal airway cells of study participants who had eaten a preparation of broccoli sprouts,” explained lead investigator Dr. Marc Riedl.
However, he added that more research needs to be carried out before scientists can recommend a specific dosage of broccoli or sulforaphane. The researchers say broccoli sprouts are the richest natural source of sulforaphane.
Broccoli has also been linked to a number of other health benefits, including helping to prevent certain types of cancer and protect the heart.
For example, last year scientists at the University of Warwick in the UK found sulforaphane helped protect the hearts blood vessels, potentially leading to a lower risk of heart attack and stroke.