Daily portions of broccoli, white cabbage and cauliflower can prevent a variety of disorders, ranging from arthritis and ending with heart disease. Scientists from the University of Pennsylvania explained how useful this kind of food.
The study showed that the preventive effect is achieved due to the positive effects of these products on the health of the gastrointestinal system. When laboratory mice were kept on a diet with these vegetables, they were much better able to cope with various digestive disorders. Scientists explain this by the fact that cruciferous vegetables contain substances that improve bowel health and its protective functions.
Thus, it is possible to reduce the risk of leakage from the intestine, because of which the body is exposed to toxins and pathogens. It is these intestinal leakages that provoke various inflammatory processes, leading to diseases such as arthritis or cardiovascular diseases. Researchers believe that the cruciferous vegetables contain a component that is split into other substances in the stomach. Subsequently, these substances combine together and activate the aryl-hydrocarbon receptor of the intestine, which is important for maintaining the health and barrier functions of this organ.
A powerful barrier to the digestive system protects the body from toxins and pathogens while allowing better digestion of nutrients. By translating the results of the study to human health, its authors suggested that to achieve a similar effect, people should consume three and a half cups of broccoli daily. And although this seems to be a significant amount, in reality it is achievable, especially if you distribute cruciferous vegetables between breakfast, lunch or dinner.