“The Warwick team, whose work is reported in the journal Diabetes, tested the effects of sulforaphane on blood vessel cells damaged by high glucose levels (hyperglycaemia), which are associated with diabetes. 
They recorded a 73% reduction of molecules in the body called Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS).
Hyperglycaemia can cause levels of ROS to increase three-fold and such high levels can damage human cells.
The researchers also found that sulforaphane activated a protein in the body called nrf2, which protects cells and tissues from damage by activating protective antioxidant and detoxifying enzymes.”
Broccoli is a member of the brassica family of vegetables that also includes: spinach, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, collard greens, pak choi and kohlrabi. Brassica vegetables such as broccoli have previously been linked to a lower risk of heart attacks and strokes and have strong anti-cancer benefits.
