In recent medical literature, we can identify some studies that highlight some antibacterial activity - against Helicobacter Pylori - by some commonly used foods, such as broccoli and wasabi .
Both are rich in isothiocyanates, sulfur compounds which are attributed not only to this antimicrobial activity, but also to the anticancer, antihypertensive, cardioprotective, cholesterol-lowering, hypoglycemic and antioxidant
A recent study has investigated the inhibitory mechanism of sulforaphane and other isothiocyanates against urease produced by Helicobacter pylori : this enzyme is fundamental for the survival of the bacterium inside the stomach, as it synthesizes the ammonia necessary to neutralize the gastric acids. However, ammonia itself has an irritating effect on the mucous membrane of the stomach and is therefore linked to the appearance of gastritis.
The authors of the study point out that the antibiotic activity against Helicobacter pylori could be attributed to the synergy of various substances, which act with different mechanisms of action. For example, some isothiocyanates with strong anti-urease activity lack bactericidal activity, and vice versa.
Biochem Biophys Res Commun. 2013 May 24; 435 (1): 1-7. doi: 10.1016 / j.bbrc.2013.03.126. Epub 2013 Apr 11.Urease from Helicobacter pylori is inactivated by sulforaphane and other isothiocyanates.
Fahey JW1, Stephenson KK, Wade KL, Talalay P.
