The number of people suffering from diabetics is increasing at a rapid rate. Diabetes is not a deadly disease itself but it increases vulnerability to other diseases. Diabetes increases the chances of heart disease by 5 percent. The recent research by a team from the University of Warwick has brought good news for diabetics living in fear of heart disease.

Researchers have found that regular consumption of broccoli can save diabetics from risk of heart disease. The study showed that the compound sulforaphane, found in broccoli helps in production of enzymes that protect the blood vessels.

The team led by Professor Paul Thornalley and colleagues studied the effects of sulforaphane on blood vessel cells damaged by high glucose levels known as hyperglycaemia. The study showed that a protein is activated by sulforaphane which protects cells and tissue from damage. Researchers added that broccoli also helps in reduction of cell damaging molecules.

The study showed that addition of this compound reverses the increase in molecules in the body called reactive oxygen species (ROS) by 73 per cent. Hyperglycaemia leads to threefold increase in ROS levels which leads to destruction of cells.

Researchers added this research was conducted in lab. They added that the further research would be done on the positive effects of broccoli on diabetes. Researchers added that the present research can offer a ray of hope to diabetics.

Dr Iain Frame, director of research at Diabetes UK complimented the researchers. He added that this research should motivate people to make broccoli a regular part of their meals. Many studies have proved merits of broccoli against cancer, cataracts and stomach ulcers.