It seems that researchers may have found another reason for you to eat your broccoli besides, “your mother says so”. A research team out of The University of East Anglia has discovered that Broccoli, as well as other cruciferous vegetables like cabbage and brussel sprouts, contain a substance called Sulforaphane, which they believe may hold the secret to joint health and natural Osteoarthritis treatment.
Osteoarthritis, not to be confused with Rheumatoid Arthritis, is a joint disease characterized by degeneration of cartilage cells from chronic inflammation and years of wear and tear. Researchers have been searching for a way to stop cartilage cells from slowly dying off and causing joint disease. It is theorized that Sulforaphane possesses protective qualities by altering the mechanisms of cartilage cell death. The recent study published in Arthritis and Rheumatism examined the effects of Sulforaphane on altering cell signaling mechanisms, as well as its effects on cartilage cells in pig and mice. As it would turn out, this new study illustrated that Sulforaphane inhibited the specific protein enzymes that cause cartilage degeneration, and decreased the overall amount of inflammation in the joint.
The combination of these promising results in cellular and animal studies illustrate the protective potential of Sulforaphane in Osteoarthritis prevention and treatment, and has led to preliminary clinical trials in humans. Although we do not have documented evidence of success in humans just yet, researchers are hopeful that Broccoli’s super power may be just what the doctor ordered for joint health. Keep following the Orthohealing Center blog for more health tips and up to date research! And don’t forget to follow us on Twitter (@Orthohealingctr) and Facebook !!
