The damaging effects of strokes could soon be reduced with a pill which releases a chemical commonly found in broccoli. British researchers have proved that a molecule called sulforaphane, which occurs naturally in the vegetable, turns on a protective enzyme in the brain.

Scientists at King’s College London found this ‘scavenger’ enzyme then removes dangerous free radical cells that damage and kill other cells in a process known as oxidative stress, which has been linked to diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer’s.

British researchers have proved that a molecule found in broccoli called sulforaphane turns on a protective enzyme in the brain. And in what is being hailed as a major breakthrough, the discovery that the humble broccoli chemical can minimise the damage caused by strokes may pave the way for thousands at risk to take a simple pill every day.