Researchers quickly zeroed in on sulforaphane, a natural compound found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cauliflower, and cabbage. This compound seemed so useful because it diminished glucose production in liver cells; when administered to diabetic rats, the compound altered their gene expression.
By now, it should be common knowledge that vegetables, especially ones like broccoli, that are eaten on a regular basis, are not only good to keep weight off and fight illnesses, but also are healthy for our entire body. Perdew and his team identified broccoli as especially important due to its health benefits on our gut and intestinal systems. Although, we do not think about our internal organs very often, protecting them can prevent a majority of harmful diseases and cancers, such as colon cancer.