Broccoli is a superfood and a chemoprevention for lung cancer. It is loaded with vitamins, minerals and chemicals that fight free-radical damage to cells. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more people die from lung cancer each year than from any other type of cancer. You may be able to reduce your risk of lung cancer by eating broccoli, but talk to your doctor first about broccoli consumption. Too much of this vegetable could actually increase your risk of lung cancer.
Causes of Lung Cancer
Smoke is the leading cause of lung cancer. Those who smoke run a 10 to 20 times higher risk of getting or dying of lung cancer than those who do not smoke. Anyone can be a victim of cancer, but the incident of cancer increases as you age. Cancer stems from the oxidation of cells, which is the natural aging process of the body. This is why we need antioxidants to prevent the premature oxidation of cells. Broccoli can provide the antioxidants you need to prevent premature aging of the lung cells, and reduce your risk of getting lung cancer.
Broccoli as Chemoprevention
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable. Cruciferous foods belong to the cabbage family. Other than broccoli and cabbage, cruciferous foods include cauliflower, radish, turnips and watercress. A wealth of research shows that cruciferous vegetables may reduce the risk of different types of cancers. As a cruciferous vegetable, broccoli plays a role in the prevention of lung cancer. In fact, a study conducted at Roswell Park Cancer Institute in 2008 suggests that cruciferous vegetables reduced the risk of lung cancer in smokers by 20 to 55 percent, depending on the cruciferous vegetable eaten.
Increased Cancer Risk
Ironically, if you are a heavy smoker, you may increase your risk of lung cancer if you consume too much beta-carotene. Broccoli contains beta-carotene, a nutrient that plays a significant role in bone, eye and reproductive health. According to the National Cancer Institute, high intakes of beta-carotene can increase the prevalence of lung cancer in those who are at high risk for lung cancer. This includes those who breathe second-hand smoke or those who have worked in a smoke-pollutant industry.
Warnings
If you are currently treated for a medical condition, always talk to your health care provider before making dietary changes. Additionally, never start a new vitamin or supplement without knowing the risks or side effects. Some foods and supplements may cause drug interactions. If you are on a prescribed medication or take over-the-counter medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about what you are eating or supplements you are taking to find out if there are any drug interactions.
