Cabbage compound may 'protect against radiation'

Conclusion This early stage rodent study suggests that DIM might be useful in protecting against the effects of radiation, whether exposure occurs accidentally or during medical treatment. However, the experiment was performed in rats and mice and it is uncertain whether similar effects could be achieved in humans. It would be ethically impossible to irradiate humans so the effects of DIM could be tested, although research could be undertaken in patients undergoing radiotherapy for cancer. Far more research is required before DIM could be considered an effective agent against the effects of radiation. If you have been recommended a course of radiotherapy, bear in mind that while the side effects can be unpleasant, in most cases they will pass once the treatment comes to an end. Thanks to advances in techniques and safety, long-term side effects are now rare.   Analysis by Bazian. Edited by NHS Choices. Follow Behind the Headlines on Twitter. Links To The Headlines Could cabbage protect against the effects of radiation? Compound in vegetable could help prevent sickness. Mail Online, October 14 2013 Links To Science Fan S, Meng Q, Xu J, et al. DIM (3,3′-diindolylmethane) confers protection against ionizing radiation by a unique mechanism. PNAS. Published online October 14 2013
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Food/diet Medical practice Source Type: news