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Bodacious Broccoli
Bad news for George H.W. Bush and other confirmed broccoli haters: new research published on May 28, 2002 by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences shows this green vegetable can go a long way in preventing peptic ulcers and perhaps stomach cancer-the second most common cancer worldwide.

According to researchers at Johns Hopkins University, broccoli is more effective than modern antibiotics against H. pylori, the bacteria that cause ulcers. They attribute this effect to a key compound in broccoli called glucoraphanin, which the body uses in the production of disease-fighting enzymes.

This vegetable has been shown to protect against cancers of the colon, esophagus, larynx, lung, prostate, oral cavity, pharynx and stomach. These scientists also found that broccoli sprouts pack an even greater protective punch because they contain about 20 times more glucoraphanin.

Broccoli is also high in vitamins A, C, E and selenium, and is loaded with phytochemicals. Buying tip: always buy green broccoli to ensure freshness-never when it is yellow.

Notable Quote
"Orthodox medicine is of course truly lifesaving, but we must also recognize the gifts of other health-care traditions in offering all possible expertise, knowledge and skills to everyone."
-Prince Charles, May 21, 2002, on the future integration of alternative therapies into Britain's health-care system

LowVitamin C Poses Health Risks
Here are yet two more reasons to peel an orange. Two new studies confirm that vitamin C helps keep the heart and lungs healthy.

Scientists involved with the UK section of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition found that low blood levels of vitamin C may result in a higher risk of heart attack and stroke in men and women, and some cancers in men.

Another group of British researchers from the University of Nottingham discovered that people who consume high levels of vitamin C and magnesium tend to have healthier lungs. This study also showed for the first time that a high vitamin C intake is correlated with less decline in lung function over time.

Good food sources of vitamin C include cabbage, bell peppers, broccoli, sprouts, parsley and rosehip tea. For a more complete list of foods plus tips on buying vitamin C supplements, check out Graham Butler's article " 'C' for Yourself," p. 51.