Cabbage is a nutritious vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making it very good for health.
However, many people are unaware that some individuals may experience serious health problems if they consume it incorrectly.
Uncontrolled cabbage consumption can worsen acid reflux, increase the risk of kidney stone recurrence, hinder iodine absorption in people with hypothyroidism, or reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant medications.
4 GROUPS OF PEOPLE WHO SHOULD LIMIT OR BE CAUTIOUS WHEN EATING CABBAGE
1. People taking anticoagulant medication (Warfarin)
– Cabbage is rich in vitamin K – a substance that increases blood clotting, which can reduce the effectiveness of Warfarin if consumed in large quantities or irregularly.
– Recommendation: It’s not necessary to completely avoid cabbage, but a consistent amount should be consumed each week so that the doctor can adjust the medication dosage accordingly.
2. People with a history of calcium-oxalate kidney stones
– Cabbage contains oxalates – compounds that can combine with calcium in urine and form stones.
– Recommendation:
Avoid eating it too often, and drink plenty of water to dilute the oxalate concentration.
3. People with hypothyroidism or undergoing treatment for hypothyroidism
– Cabbage, belonging to the Brassicaceae family, contains goitrogens – substances that can inhibit iodine absorption if eaten in excess or raw.
– Recommendation:
Cook thoroughly; do not eat raw.
Avoid eating large amounts daily and do not eat it close to the time you take levothyroxine medication.
4. People with bloating and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
– Cabbage is a food high in FODMAPs, which ferments easily in the intestines, producing a lot of gas → causing:
Bloating, abdominal pain, excessive flatulence
Worsening IBS symptoms
– Recommendation: Limit or eat in small amounts, preferably cooked thoroughly, avoid eating raw or pickled cabbage.
SO HOW MUCH CABBAGE IS ENOUGH?
Healthy people:
– Eating cabbage 3-4 times/week is reasonable
– Prioritize boiling, steaming, or lightly stir-frying to reduce gas production and aid digestion
– You can eat it with ginger and garlic to help combat bloating
– Avoid eating too much raw cabbage, especially in the evening or on an empty stomach