Broccoli may help arthritis sufferers

By
AFP
|
Broccoli may help arthritis sufferers
LONDON: It is known that this ‘super food’ has major properties to improve human health and some studies even have suggested that it can reduce the risk of cancer.

New research in the UK is now inferring that the power green can also be beneficial for joints due to its high content of ‘sulforaphane’.

According to the scientists at the University of East Anglia, UK, this chemical blocks the enzymes that cause joint destruction in osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease which gradually destroys the cartilage in the joints, particularly in the hands, feet, spine, hips and knees of older people and is the most common type of arthritis.

“We all know broccoli is good for you but this is the first time it has been linked to a osteoarthritis”, said Professor Ian Clark from the research team.

The new project being launched by the team will include around 30 patients that will be fed with broccoli ahead of join replacement operations.

After their surgery is done, patients will be examined to see if the sulforaphane has successfully entered their joints. If those test turn to be positive, larger clinical trials including more patients will be performed.

“The results could mean we prevent many, many more needing to go for surgery because progress of the disease will either be slowed down or completely halted. It really is a breakthrough project,” added Professor Clark.

It is reported that people who suffer from arthritis currently can only choose between short-term pain relief or joint replacement.