Some green leafy vegetables like cabbage or broccoli have long been proven to be good for the stomach. But the effect of these vegetables on the body was not explained in detail until now.
A group of British scientists say that when these vegetables are digested in the stomach, anti-cancer chemicals are released from them. Francis Crick Institute researchers say that some vegetables like cabbage, broccoli or kale can prevent bowel or colon cancer.
Studies in laboratory mice have shown how the vegetable forms a protective coating on the stomach and intestines. Like the skin, the lining of the intestines is constantly changing. A new coat is formed every four to five days. However, if this process is obstructed, it can lead to intestinal inflammation and even cancer.
New research shows that chemicals secreted from certain cruciferous vegetables, such as cabbage or broccoli, help unblock this lining process. Researchers have found that when these vegetables are chewed, they produce a chemical called indole-three-carbinol.
However, researcher Dr. Gitta Stockinger said, 'It is necessary to ensure that these vegetables are not overcooked, so that they do not melt too much.'
Indole-three is slightly altered by exposure to stomach acid. Then in the gut it can change the behavior of the stem cells. These stem cells help build the lining of the intestine, controlling intestinal inflammation. Studies have shown that indole-three-carbinol-rich vegetables prevent stomach cancer in mice.
Dr. Stockinger says, "We even saw that when tumors were forming in the stomach of mice, these vegetables stopped the growth of those tumors."
Dr. Stockinger himself is now eating less meat and more vegetables. He said, "We are given various suggestions about food, sometimes they create confusion. If I am asked to eat something without reason, I will not accept it."
Professor Tim Kay of the British charity Cancer Research UK said, "What was found in this study is that these vegetables not only contain more fiber, but the chemicals that come out of them can prevent cancer"
