Can Eating Broccoli Actually Help Combat Mesothelioma?

Do you remember being told to eat all of your vegetables? Mesothelioma researchers believe that there are great anti-cancer benefits that are associated with eating broccoli and certain other vegetables.

Recently, researchers from Korea’s Soonchunhyang University have discovered that compounds found in cruciferous vegetables are beneficial for combating pleural mesothelioma.

What Is a Cruciferous Vegetable?

Researchers frequently study the benefits that cruciferous vegetables have in a cancer patient’s diet. These types of vegetables are known to be rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Some examples of cruciferous vegetables are:

• Kale
• Collard Greens
• Radishes
• Brussels Sprouts
• Broccoli
• Cauliflower

Cruciferous vegetables contain a natural sulforaphane component called glucosinolates.This component is responsible for giving these types of vegetables their bitter flavor and smell. Many studies in a lab setting have revealed that these compounds may help in cancer prevention.

Some anti-cancer effects these compounds have:

• Protect cells from DNA damage
• Cause cell death
• Have anti-inflammatory effects
• Inhibit tumor formation

Many researchers believe that eating a diet high in cruciferous vegetables may lower the risk a person has for developing certain types of cancers.

Can Cruciferous Vegetables Help Fight Mesothelioma?

Researchers Yoon-Jin and Sang-Han Lee have discovered that cruciferous vegetables may have great anti-cancer benefits for mesothelioma patients.

In a lab, Yoon-Jin and Sang-Han Lee studied the effects that sulforaphane and cisplatin have on pleural mesothelioma cells. They discovered that sulforaphane enhances the effects that cisplatin has on mesothelioma cells. Sulforaphane is a component that is found in cruciferous vegetables. Cisplatin is a platinum-based chemotherapy drug that is part of standard mesothelioma treatment.

What Does This Mean for a Mesothelioma Patient?

As a mesothelioma patient, not only do you have to prepare yourself mentally, but you have to prepare yourself physically. While you are seeking treatment, you may find yourself losing energy and becoming exhausted. You may even find yourself losing your appetite.

Even though eating cruciferous vegetables may have great anticancer effects, they are not the only important food group. Eating a well-balanced diet that includes a good variety of vegetables, fruits, proteins, fats, and carbs will keep you strong.

A well-balanced diet has many benefits:

• Reduces your risk for infection
• Reduces your time for recovery
• Boosts your energy
• Reduces your treatment side effects

Speaking with your doctor or your dietician are the best options when it comes to making significant changes in your diet. In many circumstances, there won’t be too many changes or any strict guidelines implemented on your diet.

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