Nutritionists are quick to applaud the benefits of cruciferous vegetables as a complementary medicine. For several years now, it has been claimed that sulforaphane, a compound found in crucifers such as cauliflower and broccoli can help prevent cancer. Studies conducted over the last decade have supported these claims and provide a valuable indication that sulforaphane directly alters our genes to make them more resistant to the development of cancer. This news is boosted even further by a recent study suggesting that sulforaphane can actually treat leukaemia; one of the most aggressive and deadly cancers to affect children.
The study in question took place at the Baylor College of Medicine, Texas. Scientists used leukemic cells derived from human sufferers and treated them with sulforaphane within a laboratory setting. It was seen that the sulforaphane penetrated the white blood cells and interacted with the proteins responsible for cancer growth. Results of the study showed that this interaction stalled the proteins in their progress, though it remains undetermined which kinds of proteins responded.
The news has been received with great excitement by the medical establishment, who are badly in need of alternative methods of treating children afflicted by acute lymphoblastic leukaemia. Some children suffering from this condition do not respond to treatment, and this has left a serious need to find other methods. The fact that a concentrated form of sulforaphane shows promise in this area is incredibly encouraging, and leads many to hope that this knowledge can be further built upon.
The compound used in these studies was a highly concentrated and purified form of sulforaphane, so it should not be thought that broccoli and cauliflower could provide a solution in themselves. This being the case, it is not unthinkable that the regular inclusion of these in your diet, along with a more concentrated sulforaphane-based supplement could one day become a potent shield against leukaemia.
The optimism that this study has brought about is great news in the fight against cancer. Furthermore, it reminds all of us that diet is more than just simple fuel. Food is something that should be mindfully approached, since every morsel of nutrition can be a force for our wellness. As much as processed foods can be the cause of illness, natural and nutritious foods can be our defence. The value of food as nature’s own complementary medicine is the first thing to acknowledge when planning your dietary wellbeing.
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