Rubbing Your Body with Broccoli Might Be the New Sunscreen (Researchers Are Testing it Out, at Least)

by Beth Shapouri



photo: Chris Gentile
photo: Chris Gentile

We've known for years that eating broccoli is good for you, but a new study put together by researchers at the University of Arizona and Johns Hopkins University is testing out if rubbing it on your skin may reduce the risk of skin cancer.

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Why they think it might work? Broccoli contains a compound called sulforaphane, which prohibits cancer-causing pathways and activates chemoprotective genes for a one-two cancer-preventing punch. To see if it could work topically, the researchers will test a broccoli solution on skin to see if the compound can effectively block simulated sunlight. If it does, this could mean we might someday be spreading broccoli cream all over ourselves before we head outdoors. But in the meantime, still wear the regular-old SPF stuff. And, yes, eat your broccoli. It'll make your mom happy.

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You can read more about the study at newswise.com and sciencedaily.com.

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