Broccoli fights breast cancer

According to a new study from researchers at the University of Michigan Comprehensive Cancer Center, a compound derived from broccoli could help prevent or treat breast cancer by targeting cancer stem cells( the small number of cells that fuel a tumor’s growth). The study tested sulforaphane, a component of broccoli and broccoli sprouts and found sulforaphane targeted and killed the cancer stem cells and prevented new tumors from growing.

“Sulforaphane has been studied previously for its effects on cancer, but this study shows that its benefit is in inhibiting the breast cancer stem cells. This new insight suggests the potential of sulforaphane or broccoli extract to prevent or treat cancer by targeting the critical cancer stem cells,” says study author Duxin Sun, Ph.D., associate professor of pharmaceutical sciences at the U-M College of Pharmacy and a researcher with the U-M Comprehensive Cancer Center.

Now I am not the world’s biggest fan of broccoli on my plate, but reading this latest research has given me added reason to eat this cruciferous vegetable. I try to incorporate it into quiches, salads and soups as much as possible. Even better, raw broccoli sprouts sprinkled on salads, soups and sandwiches are a great addition to any diet.

Results of the study appear in the May 1 issue of Clinical Cancer Research.