Vegetables such as broccoli and cabbage contain compounds that could help reverse or prevent cancers and other aging related diseases, according to research published from the University of Alabama, in the Journal of Clinical Epigenetics.
This is a part of the ‘epigenetics diet’ (the heritable changes in phenotype or gene expression caused by mechanisms other than changes in the underlying DNA sequence) which is a new lifestyle concept. Studies worldwide, including this recent research at the University of Alabama, have identified specific food compounds which inhibit epigenetic effects.
Some of the foods which should be incorporated into the diet include soybeans, cauliflower, broccoli, brussels sprouts, cabbage, green tea, fava beans, kale, grapes and the spice turmeric.
In terms of receiving enough of each compound, and achieving the ‘epigenetics diet’, this can be reached by drinking approximately three cups of green tea, enough to ensure the compound polyphenol is achieved in sufficient quantities to reduce the risk of breast cancer. Similarly, a recommended daily portion of brussels sprouts can contain enough sulforaphane which has been positively linked to reducing the risk of developing many cancers.
According to Trygve Tollefsbol, co-author and biology professor at the UAB College of Arts and Sciences "Our review article has drawn everything together from global studies, and the common theme is that compounds in the epigenetics diet foods can, at the very least, help us lead healthier lives and help our bodies prevent potentially debilitating diseases like breast cancer and Alzheimer's."
