Preventing Stomach Cancer Through Diet

dietThere is a tiny bacteria that makes its home in many of our stomachs despite the strong stomach acid that we produce. It is known as Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori), and it is known to cause ulcers, gastritis, and even stomach cancer.

Now it turns out eating your vegetables may reduce the number of H. pylori that call your stomach home.

A pilot study showed that people who ate broccoli sprouts seemed to have fewer of the bacteria.

Broccoli sprouts contain sulforaphane. In antibiotic form, sulforaphane is given to patients who have H. pylori infections.

It appears to trigger cells to produce enzymes that help prevent inflammation, and reduce damage from oxygen free radicals. The broccoli sprouts have higher levels of sulforaphane than the mature heads of broccoli.

In the study, participants ate 2.5 ounces of broccoli sprouts daily. The benefits appeared to end about 8 weeks after regular consumption of the broccoli sprouts ended.

While no one is suggesting that vegetables can take the place of medication when it is needed, this pilot study is just one more indication that eating a healthy diet may be the best way to ensure your overall health and well being.