
What is a cruciferous vegetable?
“Cruciferous” is a scientific name used to describe plants that belong to the cabbage family. Examples of cruciferous vegetables include cabbage, cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and kale. It turns out that cruciferous vegetables contain the compound, sulforaphane, which suppresses the growth of breast cancer cells.The Gut of your Immunity
Sometime ago, researchers discovered that our first line of immune defense lies in our intestines thanks to gut flora. Still, further research has shown that there are other soldiers in our gut protecting us from infection and disease. These soldiers are white blood cells called lymphocytes and they lie between the cells that make up the lining of the intestines. However, these lymphocytes are only activated when their special receptors are turned on by sulforaphane.Sulforaphane and you
Even though you may have never heard of sulforaphane, you should know that this invaluable compound is responsible for activating over 200 genes. These genes specialize in producing antioxidant enzymes like glutathione. This master antioxidant rids the body of free radicals and reduces inflammation mainly by recycling other antioxidants. Additionally, sulforaphane attacks cancer cells head on by triggering several other enzymes throughout the body. Therefore, cruciferous vegetables are very effective in fighting or preventing cancer of the breast, bladder, colon, liver, lung, ovaries, and prostate.Broccoli—the best of the bunch

- Eat broccoli sprouts instead of the mature vegetable
- If possible, eat broccoli sprouts that are no more than three days old
- Avoid overcooking broccoli by steaming it for only two to four minutes
- Consider consuming raw broccoli in salads or wraps