Eating broccoli sprouts on a daily basis could help stem the rise of bacteria linked to stomach ulcers and even stomach cancer, according to new research.

A study of 50 people in Japan has revealed that eating 2.5oz of broccoli sprouts each day for two months could offer some protection from the bacteria H. pylori, which is linked to stomach complaints and even cancer.

The study by Cancer Prevention Research saw a team of scientists give half the group a daily portion of broccoli sprouts, which contain anti-cancer compound sulforaphane, and the rest alfalfa sprouts, which do not contain sulforaphane.

Of the group who ate broccoli sprouts, levels of a marker of H. pylori in human stools called HpSA was cut by more than 40 per cent. There was no change in those who ate alfalfa sprouts.

But in the people who ate broccoli sprouts, HpSA levels had returned to pre-treatment levels eight weeks after the end of the study, which the researchers say suggests that although the sprouts can dampen down the bacteria, they cannot eliminate it.

Dr Jed Fahey of Johns Hopkins University in the US, who led the study, said: “The fact that the levels of infection and inflammation were reduced suggests the likelihood of getting gastritis and ulcers and cancer is probably reduced.”