Where there’s air pollution, think about broccoli

Where there’s air pollution, think about broccoli


With global concerns about air pollution growing, the latest research on broccoli might have even the pickiest eaters rethinking their aversions to the vegetable.

Johns Hopkins University researchers have released study data about residents of a rural part of China known to have severe air pollution. Findings from the study show that participants who drank a beverage containing broccoli sprout powder expelled two dangerous pollutants at much higher levels than normal.

The 12-week study measured excretion of the pollutants, benzene and acrolein (uh-kroh-lee-in), in urine. Both chemicals are known to be dangerous. Benzene can cause cancer in animals and people. Acrolein affects lung health. Throughout the study, people who drank broccoli powder expelled more of these substances than people who didn’t consume the green stuff.

A third chemical also was included in the study, but researchers did not see any difference between the two groups’ excretion of it.

The scientists say the broccoli sprouts work by increasing the body’s levels of a substance responsible for ramping up production of pollutant-clearing enzymes.

This probably isn’t the first you’ve heard of broccoli’s healthful powers. Experts have long touted broccoli and other related vegetables as foods that can help prevent cancer. It also packs a fibrous punch that benefits digestive health and helps fight inflammation, a major player in many diseases.

The research on broccoli sprouts as a potential remedy for pollution exposure paves the way for more studies on the leafy green wonder. Perhaps one day we’ll all be sipping broccoli sprout smoothies.

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