Website and Blog for the Sam McMahon Trust

We have heard some rumblings about Sulforaphane for a while now. It is a phytochemical which is found in cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower and kale. The richest source is found in broccoli sprouts. Over the past few years Sulforaphane has been used as an antioxidant and is thought to reduce the risk of certain cancers.

Although Sulforaphane has not been approved to treat, cure or prevent any disease we think that it’s a supplement that is worth some consideration. However this post does not represent a qualified medical opinion and you should always consult with your own doctors before embarking on a course of treatment.

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has reminded everyone at risk of annual influenza this winter to ‘Get the Vaccine, not the Flu!’ The national Annual Flu Vaccination campaign is targeting the usual three key at-risk groups for seasonal influenza -  everyone aged over 65, health care staff and carers, and younger people with long-term illnesses such as asthma, heart problems etc. People who suffer from Friedreich’s Ataxia fall into the third category.  For older people and those who have a chronic illness, flu can cause severe illness and can even be life threatening.

People with either a Medical Card or GP Visit Card will not be charged to visit the doctor for the flu vaccine.  General practitioners may charge a consultation fee to administer the vaccine to patients without a medical card.

For more information people should contact their local GP or the HSE.