How Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants Protect Against Cancer
The fact that broccoli is one of the most potent cancer fighting foods in existence has been thoroughly documented on the pages of the Alternative Cancer Treatment Blog. While there has been an abundance of research that proved the many ways in which broccoli can help to ward off cancer (and it without doubt should remain the top weapon for all who are seriously interested in preventing or treating cancer naturally), other vegetables and plants of the same botanical family – Cruciferous and Brassica – are proving to be very effective additions when consumed along with cancer slaying broccoli.
Ward Off Various Cancers with Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants, Photo: kthread, Flickr
Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants
The following are some of the more popular Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants widely available for purchase in farmer markets but can also be grown in backyard gardens without much gardening experience or expensive tools:
- arugula
- bok choy
- Brussels sprouts
- cabbages
- cauliflower
- collards
- horseradish
- kale
- kohlrabi
- mizuna
- mustard greens
- radish
- rapini
- rutabaga
- turnip
- watercress
Isothiocyanates in Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants
According to the recent study by Georgetown University, consumption of broccoli and/or related Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants can supply bodies with Isothiocyanates, substances found capable of halting the mutation process of gene known as p53. Isothiocyanates, which can be found in broccoli and other veggies of the same botanical family act as protectors of gene p53 and p53 is a gene that defends cells against cancer by keeping them healthy and preventing them from becoming abnormal or cancerous. In other words, gene p53 is a tumor suppressant which when defective, could fail to prevent healthy cells from mutating and becoming cancerous. But as the findings by Georgetown University suggest, p53 can be protected by consumption of Isothiocyanates rich veggies, such as broccoli or other Cruciferous Vegetables or Brassica Plants which could greatly assist in prevention and/or treatment of wide range of cancers.
Watercress and Cancer
In another recent study conducted by British scientists and researchers, the effect of watercress consumption on changes to DNA in both smokers and non smokers was assessed. The scientists found that watercress protected both groups from DNA mutations, but the benefits were more apparent among the subjects who smoked. In conclusion it was stated that smoking cessation is definitely an important cancer preventing step, however inclusion of veggies such as watercress in diet of smokers can greatly assist in strategies aimed at reduction of the risks of various cancers.
Watercress - Found to Prevent Cancers Caused by Tobacco Smoking, Photo: HealthAliciousNess
Variety for Broader Protection Against Cancer
Glucosinolates are sulfur-containing compounds which give Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants their distinctive aromas. Various glucosinolates are well known for their varying cancer fighting abilities which brings us to the conclusion of the article on the cancer preventing benefits of Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants – broccoli is a cancer fighting powerhouse, but by including a variety of veggies of the same family to your menu, you will be able to gain protection against a wider range of cancers.
Broccoli can prevent the spread of cancer cells, but watercress is very rich in a compound that can fight cell damage caused by tobacco. Other brassica plants appear to have the ability to ward off hormone related cancers, such as breast cancer or prostate cancer. A group of cruciferous veggies appears to be especially effective against cancers triggered by chemicals. All in all, to reap the maximum cancer fighting benefits of Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants, it’s best to eat a variety, instead of focusing on just one.
Granted, aside from their cancer fighting properties, Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants are also rich in fiber, vitamin C, potassium, folate, lutein, beta carotene and various other cartenoids which vary from one veggie to another. The type of fiber found in brassica veggies is known for its prebiotic effect, which helps to stimulate the growth of intestinal bacteria (good bacteria). People with healthy bacteria culture in their gut are more resilient to diseases (have stronger immunity), have cleaner, more radiant complexion and feel more energetic. These bacteria may also help to reduce bloating which is often associated with consumption of certain veggies known for excessive gas production.
So go ahead and add a variety of Cruciferous Vegetables and Brassica Plants to your diet. The benefits of eating these go far beyond their proven cancer fighting properties. You’ll enjoy a fuller, healthier life and the best thing is – these veggies are inexpensive to buy and easy to grow for those of you who enjoy gardening.