We have seen before how the cruciferous vegetable family is packed with vitamins and minerals for overall health. As part of the family, broccoli may be one of the most potent of all. Research shows that broccoli slows aging and increases life span.
One of broccoli’s most researched benefits is its anti-cancer properties.
Researchers from the University of Copenhagen discovered that selenium, a nutrient found in broccoli slows down the immune system over-activity caused by these cancers. Thus, broccoli and may be able to fight cancer.
The research team is hoping that this may improve cancer treatment in the long term. The study was published in the Journal of Biological Chemistry.
Broccoli slows down aging
An enzyme in broccoli has potential anti-aging benefits. The enzyme is called nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN), which helps produce nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD), which is a compound involved in mitochondrial health and energy metabolism.
A recent study confirmed the anti-aging benefits of this enzyme:
“When they gave normal aging mice infusions of NMN, they made more of that energy-fueling compound and some of the biological problems associated with aging went away.
The NMN-treated animals did not gain as much weight, they were able to convert food into energy more efficiently, their blood sugar was better — even their eyesight improved.
The mice receiving NMN were also able to prevent some of the genetic changes associated with aging.”
Broccoli increases lifespan
The nutrients in broccoli also benefit overall health, which can increase lifespan.
Broccoli is an excellent source of phytonutrients called kaempferol and isothiocyanates, which help reduce inflammation. Chronic inflammation is considered a major risk factor for serious disease including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis.
It also has shown promise in the area of heart health. Broccoli is a good source of lutein, which may prevent arteries from thickening, therefore helping prevent stroke and cardiovascular disease. The vitamin B6 and folate content in broccoli helps reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Note: None of the information in our website is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any illness or disease. The content on our website is for educational purposes only.
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REFERENCES:
1. “Selenium Compounds Boost Immune System to Fight against Cancer.” University of Copenhagen. University of Copenhagen, 24 Nov. 2014. Web. 16 Nov. 2016.
2. “The Selenium Metabolite Methylselenol Regulates the Expression of Ligands That Trigger Immune Activation through the Lymphocyte Receptor NKG2D*.” The Journal of Biological Chemistry. The Journal of Biological Chemistry, 25 Sept. 2014. Web. 16 Nov. 2016.
3. “The Many Benefits of Broccoli.” Mercola.com. Mercola.com, n.d. Web. 16 Nov. 2016.
4. “This Compound in Broccoli Can Slow Aging; Being Tested in Humans.” Time. Time, n.d. Web. 16 Nov. 2016.
