Health experts have been promoting broccoli as a superfood citing several benefits, ranging from protecting the heart to reducing cancer risks.
Known to be a powerhouse of antioxidants and a rich source of vitamins and minerals, here are some health benefits of broccoli:
- Reduces inflammation
- May reduce cancer risks
- May help in regulating blood sugar level
- Good for eye health
- Supports hormonal balance
- Reduces risk of cardiovascular diseases
- Supports immune system
- May help in weight loss
A new study conducted by Penn State University gives you more reasons to include this nutrient-packed vegetable in your diet. Eating broccoli may help promote gut health and reduce diseases, the study published in the journal Laboratory Investigation reveals.
Researchers tried to understand the mechanism that happens inside the small intestine of mice when the vegetable is consumed. Researchers found that certain molecules in broccoli, called aryl hydrocarbon receptor ligands, that bind to a receptor within mice’s small intestine help to protect the lining and prevent the development of disease.
The scientists analyzed the gut health of mice that were fed a diet containing 15% broccoli, which would be equivalent to about 3.5 cups per day for humans. They then compared it to the control group that was given a typical lab diet that did not have broccoli.
“The gut health of the mice that were not fed broccoli was compromised in a variety of ways that are known to be associated with disease,” Gary Perdew, a lead researcher of the study, said. “Our research suggests that broccoli and likely other foods can be used as natural sources of AHR ligands and that diets rich in these ligands contribute to the resilience of the small intestine.”
“Our research is helping to uncover the mechanisms for how broccoli and other foods benefit health in mice and likely humans, as well. It provides strong evidence that cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts should be part of a normal…
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