Protect yourself: How broccoli can shield your liver from cancer

by: | May 10, 2023
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broccoli-shields-your-liver(NaturalHealth365)  Broccoli and other members of the Brassica family contain sulforaphane, a compound that has been found to possess several anti-cancer properties.  This compound has the ability to induce cell death in cancer cells and prevent the growth of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow.

Sulforaphane also aids in detoxifying the liver by boosting the activity of enzymes that eliminate toxins from the body. A recent study has confirmed that sulforaphane can protect against liver cancer, adding to the list of benefits associated with cruciferous vegetables.

Is your diet putting you at risk for liver disease and cancer?

In addition to protection against liver cancer, consuming broccoli regularly can also assist in blocking the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) that cause the liver to malfunction.  In some cases, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease can also contribute to hepatocellular carcinoma – which has a very high mortality rate.

Unfortunately, the typical American diet is too high in (toxic) saturated fats, processed foods, and added sugars.  Both toxic fats and excessive amounts of sugar are converted to body fat, but they’re also stored in the liver.  Sadly, the standard American diet (SAD) results in excess body fat – which is directly linked to nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

Liver disease can lead to cirrhosis of the liver as well as liver cancer.  Without treatment, it can progress and become very serious.  Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease often does not have symptoms or signs; however, it can be accompanied by pain in the upper right abdomen, fatigue, and weight loss.

Obesity linked with liver cancer, especially for men

Obesity is a known contributor and risk factor for liver cancer, especially in men.  In fact, liver cancer risk for a man can be as much as five times higher if his weight is in the obesity range.

Broccoli’s cancer-fighting compound, sulforaphane, is acquired most effectively when the broccoli is eaten raw or lightly steamed.  Other research has also pointed to brassica vegetables’ ability to block fat accumulation in the liver.  Broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts are all brassica vegetables, and they all seem to have a protective effect against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease.

How broccoli helps restore liver balance and promotes overall health?

Broccoli consumption can help restore liver balance and health by reducing the amount of fat accumulation in the liver while increasing its lipid output.  This helps to bring the liver back into balance and improves overall health.

Here are some tips on how to include broccoli in your diet and take advantage of its many health benefits:

  1. Add it to your salad:  Broccoli makes a great addition to any salad, whether it’s raw or lightly steamed.  Mix it with your favorite greens, add some nuts or seeds for crunch, and top with a healthy dressing.
  2. Roast it:  Roasting broccoli brings out its natural sweetness and can be a delicious and easy side dish.  Toss it with a little extra virgin olive oil, sea salt, and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender and slightly crispy.
  3. Steam it:  Steaming broccoli is a great way to preserve its nutrients and can be a quick and easy way to add it to your meal.  Steam until just tender and serve with a little grass-fed butter or lemon.
  4. Add it to your stir-fry:  Broccoli is a common ingredient in stir-fries and can add a healthy and flavorful element to your meal.  Cut it into small pieces and add to your favorite stir-fry recipe.

Remember, eating at least three servings of organic broccoli per week is recommended for optimal health benefits, but consuming it even more frequently can further enhance its benefits for the liver and overall health.

To learn more about how to lower your risk of cancer, own the Stop Cancer Docu-Class, presented by Jonathan Landsman and featuring many of the finest integrative cancer specialist in the world.

Sources for this article include:

NIH.gov
MedicalNewsToday.com
MedicalXpress.com
Aicr.org

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