The incident rate of liver cancer has more than tripled since 1980. This year alone, an estimated 39,230 new cases of liver cancer will be diagnosed. (1)
A 2014 study reported that American adults are eating better and improving food choices and diet quality based upon nutrition education and advice. (2)
Studies shows that broccoli consumption three to five times per week can lower risk of breast cancer, prostate cancer and colon cancer!
Several studies have shown the correlation between broccoli consumption and cancer. Scientists have found that eating broccoli three to five times per week can lower the risk of breast, prostate and colon cancer. (3)
A new University of Illinois study investigated whether this correlation exists for liver cancer. Researchers found that it does indeed protect against liver cancer as well as help prevent the development of fatty liver or nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. (3)
New research finds that broccoli consumption also protects against liver cancer and fatty liver disease!
Researchers felt that this study was important due to the increased obesity rates that increase risk of liver cancer. A diet high in saturated fats and processed sugars can increase body fat which can lead to cirrhosis of the liver and liver cancer. (3)
Prior research has revealed that broccoli contains bioactive compounds that stop the accumulation of fat in the liver. Researchers were interested in investigating the impact of broccoli on the formation and progression of cancerous tumors in the liver. (3)
Western diet increases the number and size of cancer nodules in the liver, while increased broccoli consumption decreased the number of nodules.
The study found that the standard Western diet increased the number and size of cancer nodules in the liver. When broccoli was added to the diet, the number of nodules decreased. The researchers were also examining for liver health. Researchers found that broccoli did not impact weight loss but did it did bring the fat in the liver under control and ultimately made the liver healthier. (3)
The study recommends eating broccoli freshly chopped or lightly steamed in order to get most benefit. (3)
Sources included:
(1) http://www.cancer.org/cancer/livercancer/detailedguide/liver-cancer-what-is-key-statistics
(2) http://www.usda.gov/wps/portal/usda/usdahome?contentidonly=true&contentid=2014/01/0008.xml
(3) http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/03/160303133607.htm
