Brassicaceae vegetables positions as a possible natural complement to antibiotic therapy, offering new avenues for improving the management of H. pylori infections and reducing inflammation in those affected.
Learned for their bioactive compounds and documented potential to decrease oxidative stress and inflammation, Brassicaceae vegetables (such as broccoli, kale, cabbage, and cauliflower, also called cruciferous vegetables) could serve as valuable adjuncts to antibiotic treatment for Helicobacter pylori (Hp) infections, a systematic review published in ‘Frontiers in Medicine’ illustrated.
Hp infection, a major global health concern, is connected to chronic gastritis, peptic ulcers and even stomach cancer. While antibiotics are the main treatment for Hp infections, resistance and side effects may be mitigated by incorporating diets rich in cruciferous vegetables. Sara Properzi et al. sought to explore the potential of including cruciferous vegetables to enhance treatment efficacy and reduce side effects in Hp-infected individuals.
A systematic literature review following PRISMA guidelines evaluated the influence of Brassicaceae-rich diets on curbing Hp infection, based on studies from PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE and Cochrane Library, excluding animal studies and unrelated research. Cruciferous vegetables might help control Hp colonization, although eradicating the pathogen remains difficult. In particular, compounds like sulforaphane, found in broccoli and related vegetables, appear to exert anti-inflammatory effects and may improve outcomes when used alongside conventional antibiotic therapy.
While some studies have shown mixed results, with broccoli’s efficacy in Hp treatment being questioned, there is strong evidence suggesting that the intake of Brassicaceae plus antibiotic therapy may enhance the cure rates. Furthermore, broccoli extract supplements showed promise in reducing Hp-induced gastric mucosal damage. They seem to be safe and mitigate antibiotic side effects, with no significant adverse events reported when paired with probiotics or sulforaphane derivatives.
Of note, individual responses to these treatments can vary, underscoring the need for further research to establish the most effective methods for utilizing Brassicaceae compounds. The review concluded that well-designed trials are needed to fully comprehend the therapeutic potential of these vegetables in treating Hp-related conditions.
Frontiers in Medicine
Can a diet rich in Brassicaceae help control Helicobacter pylori infection? A systematic review
Sara Properzi et al.
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