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Cabbage Soup Diet - Cruciferous Cabbage Can Kill Cancer Cells

Aside from its role in the Cabbage Soup Diet, cabbage also
plays an important part in fighting against Cancer. Cancer is
one of the primary causes of the increasing mortality rate in
the world. It affects everyone – the rich and the poor, the
young and the old, men, women, and children alike.

Although cancer is mainly hereditary, we can still do ways to
avoid it. One of which is consuming cruciferous vegetables, such
as broccoli and cabbage.

Researches and Studies in Cabbages

In the National Cancer Research Conference held recently in
Britain, a study was conducted and presented that green leafy
vegetables such as cabbage and Brussels sprout contain a certain
compound - indole-3-carbinol (I3C) - that can be used to kill
cancer cells, most especially when used in combination with the
chemotherapy drugs. The indole group of sulfur compounds binds
to the chemical carcinogens and stimulates enzymes that will
detoxify those carcinogens. The I3C found in cabbages appear to
have the effects on estrogen metabolism, helping prevent breast
cancer. Such compound is also significant in preventing or
retarding cancer of the prostate.

A study was also conducted by the Netherlands Cohort on Diet
and Cancer. The study revealed that those eating the most
vegetables gained a 25% drop in their colorectal risk. However,
those who consumed the most cruciferous vegetables benefited a
49% lower risk for colorectal cancer.

Cabbages Fight Against Cancer

In Singapore, a study found that in non-smokers, regular
consumption of cruciferous vegetables reduced lung cancer risk
by 30%. Meanwhile, a 69% drop in lung cancer risk was found with
the smokers.

A research which was published in the International Journal of
Cancer has proven that cabbages, along with other cruciferous
vegetables, can also reduce the risk of bladder cancer.

Crucifers' well-known properties in fighting against cancer are
thought to have resulted from their great levels of active
phytochemicals known as glucosinolates. These phytochemicals are
metabolized by our bodies into powerful and rather effective
anti-carcinogens known as isothiocyanates.

Proven Benefits of Cabbages

Studies, both in humans and animals, have consistently shown
that diets that are high in cruciferous vegetables, such as
cabbage, are associated with lower occurrence of a variety of
cancer.

With the 94 studies that have shown the relationship between
Brassica or cruciferous vegetables and cancer, 70% of the
studies revealed that cabbage consumption was more associated
with a lower risk of cancer, especially of the stomach, colon,
and lung.

The protective benefits of cabbage and other cruciferous
vegetables were even more evident in three groups typically at
higher risk for cancer: smokers, men, and older individuals who
aged at least 64. Consuming half of a head of cabbage everyday
or very large amounts of other cruciferous vegetables is what it
would take for you to have the kind of health risk reduction
that you are searching for.

And to get the most benefit and advantage from your cruciferous
vegetables, most especially the cabbages, ensure that you choose
organically grown vegetables because their phytonutrients levels
are primarily higher than those cabbages that are conventionally
grown. Lightly steam your cabbages as this method of cooking
retains the most phytonutrients and maximizes their
availability.

This article is designed for information purposes only. It is
not to substitute for medical advice provided by your physician
or other medical professional. You should not use the
information contained herein for diagnosing or treating a health
problem or disease, or prescribing any medication.