Lee Swanson Research Update

Study Shows Broccoli May Reverse Heart Damage

August 2008

A United Kingdom study has found consuming broccoli and its active compound sulforaphane can reverse damage caused to the heart blood vessels of diabetics.

Researchers from the University of Warwick concluded the compound could function as a “dietary activator,” and thereby “prevent biochemical dysfunction and related functional responses of endothelial cells induced by hyperglycemia (elevated blood sugar levels).”

Endothelial cells are those that form a thin layer on the interior of blood vessels. Their dysfunction is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among diabetics and has been linked to problems such as kidney disease.

Lead researcher Professor Paul Thornalley and his colleagues found the compound sulforaphane provoked production of a protein called nrf2 that was beneficial to blood vessel health, even those damaged by hyperglycemia.

Thornalley’s team observed a 73% reduction of Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS), which are commonly known as free radicals. ROS levels have been known to increase by as much as 300% in diabetics.

“Our study suggests that compounds such as sulforaphane from broccoli may help counter processes linked to the development of vascular disease in diabetes,” Thornalley said. “In the future, it will be important to test if eating a diet rich in brassica vegetables has health benefits for diabetic patients. We expect that it will.”

A free-radical-reducing, antioxidant effect was observed among the incubated human endothelial cells kept in low and high glucose concentrations. Activation of nrf2 was assessed by nuclear translocation. The presence of sulforaphane doubled the activation of nrf2.

The study adds to a small but growing body of evidence demonstrating the potential for brassica vegetables such as broccoli, Brussels sprouts, suedes, turnips and cabbages to benefit diabetic conditions.

Diabetes published online ahead of print.

New to Natural Health?
Tools
Customer Service