A team of British researchers is breeding a type of "super broccoli" containing over three times the normal levels of an anti-cancer compound naturally found in the vegetable.
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable rich source of sulphoraphane, a compound shown to display potent anticarcinogenic properties. it's thought that people consuming super broccoli could benefit from a greater intake of these anticarcinogens. As well, the researchers report that significant numbers of people lack a specific gene that helps retain sulphorophane in the body. Such people could potentially retain the same amount of the compound from super broccoli as those who don't lack the gene get from the traditional vegetable.
Eating larger portions may also have additional benefits, since broccoli is also a rich source of other vitamins and minerals. And haven't our moms told us all along to eat our broccoli?
It was noted that the study was quite small, however, so more research is needed. In otherwords, don't expect to see super broccoli in your supermarket any time soon.
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