US researchers have discovered that the humble broccoli could help to protect you from respiratory inflammation. In fact, cruciferous vegetables contain a compound called sulforaphane, which appears to have a very beneficial effect on inflammation.

Inflammation underscores and exacerbates a number of common chronic conditions, from asthma to allergies and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Reducing inflammation is a key aspect of treatment for all of these diseases.

Of all of the cruciferous choices, broccoli sprouts are the richest source of sulforaphane. Dr Marc Riedl, the principal investigator on the research team, said, “This is one of the first studies showing that broccoli sprouts … offered potent biologic effects in stimulating an antioxidant response.” Riedl also pointed out that broccoli sprouts are not exotic food, but are easily obtained.

The research team from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) compared the results of eating varying amounts of either broccoli sprouts or alfalfa sprouts for just three days. A total of 65 volunteers participated. While broccoli sprouts do contain sulforaphane, alfalfa sprouts do not.

The study had some remarkable results. The maximum “dose” of broccoli sprouts stimulated an increase of over 100% in the enzyme GSTP1, which operates in the body as an antioxidant. GSTP1 is Glutathione S-transferase pi, one of a family of enzymes that play an important role in detoxification. The maximum broccoli sprout protocol also stimulated an almost 200% increase in another key enzyme, NQO1. NQO1′s enzymatic activity prevents formation of certain free radicals in the body. All this was seen after only three days on the maximum broccoli sprout protocol.

This is great news for individuals who suffer with allergic rhinitis – especially as we start into spring and the tree pollen season. Allergic rhinitis is the medical term for that annoying runny nose that accompanies most cases of environmental allergies. Inflamed nasal membranes are the culprit behind this symptom. Seems that a daily dose of broccoli sprouts could help to reduce the need for other kinds of treatments, like decongestants.

Source: UPI.com and reporting from BeAllergyWise