with broccoli), or is otherwise unable to digest them properly, they may not do you any good regardless of
what nutrients they contain.
Broccoli’s Anti-Cancer Properties
Small quantities of fresh broccoli sprouts contain as much cancer protection as larger amounts of the
mature vegetable sold in food markets, according to researchers at Johns Hopkins University. You would
have to eat about two pounds of mature broccoli a week in order to reduce, say, your risk of colon cancer,
by about 50 percent. Although this is certainly possible, just 5 grams (0.17 ounces) of broccoli sprouts
contain concentrations of the compound glucoraphanin equal to that found in 150 grams (5.2 ounces) of
mature broccoli. The active compound is a precursor to sulforaphane, proven in animal studies to boost
cell enzymes that protect against molecular damage from cancer-causing chemicals.
Like other cruciferous vegetables, broccoli speeds up removal of estrogen from the body, helping
suppress breast cancer. It has also anti-viral, anti-ulcer activity. In addition, broccoli is a super source of
chromium that helps regulate insulin and blood sugar.
Note for the Vata type: You may still benefit somewhat from broccoli and other cruciferous
vegetables if you cook them with a good amount of oil or butter.
Cabbage—The Romans’ Cancer Cure
Cabbage was revered in ancient Rome as a cancer cure. Today, we know its cancer-curing effects are
from its numerous anti-cancer and antioxidant compounds. Cabbage speeds up estrogen metabolism,
which is thought to help block breast cancer and suppress growth of polyps, a prelude to colon cancer.
According to research, eating cabbage more than once a week cut men's colon cancer odds by as much as
66 percent.
As little as two daily tablespoons of cooked cabbage protected subjects against stomach cancer.
Cabbage also contains powerful anti-ulcer compounds; its juice has shown to help heal ulcers in humans.
It even has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties. Red cabbage has twice the fiber as white cabbage. It is
known for its balancing effects on blood cholesterol. Cauliflower and Brussels sprouts have similar
benefits.
Bok choy, which is brimming with minerals, has been found to lower high blood pressure by 30 points
or more. No need for expensive prescription drugs that ruin your liver, kidneys and digestive systems.
Cauliflower Helps With Breast Cancer
Cauliflower is a cruciferous family member that contains many of the same cancer-fighting, hormone-
regulating compounds as its cousins, broccoli and cabbage. Cauliflower is one of the least popular
vegetables, but this doesn’t make it less important. Researchers have found it helps women to break down
estrogen and produce estrogen-byproducts in a safe way, slashing breast cancer risk by 40 percent. It also
helps ward off colon cancers.