Now,a super broccoli that protects heart,prevents cancers

Research has shown that glucoraphanin can help protect against heart disease and cancers which include those of the bowel and prostate. The nutrient is converted in the gut into a compound,sulphoraphane.

That apparently reduces inflammation which can cause heart attacks,stops uncontrolled cell division associated with early stage cancer and boosts disease-fighting anti-oxidants,say the scientists.

The super broccoli raises sulphoraphane levels to two to four times that of normal broccoli,say the scientists who developed it by breeding — and not by genetic engineering.

“Our research has given new insights into the role of such vegetables for health and can lead to potentially more nutritious varieties of our familiar vegetables,” Prof Richard Mithen,who led the team,said.

Britain’s Science Minister David Willetts said: “This excellent work has led to a highly commercial product grown and sold in the UK,giving a real boost to agriculture,our health and the economy.”

The vegetable has gone on sale in Britain at Marks & Spencer and costs less than two pounds a pack.