Despite being relatively inexpensive and easy to prepare, cabbage is packed with vitamin C, fiber, and vitamin K, making it a staple in many cuisines around the world.
This highly nutritious vegetable—often overlooked—comes in a variety of shapes and colors, including red, purple, white, and green.
Cabbage is also rich in vitamin B6 and folate, both of which are essential for numerous vital functions in the body, including energy metabolism and the proper functioning of the nervous system.
Furthermore, it is high in fiber and contains powerful antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which may help protect against heart disease, certain cancers, and vision loss.
On top of that, cabbage may help reduce chronic inflammation, improve digestion, and support healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
However, despite its many health benefits, some individuals should be cautious about including cabbage in their diet.
1. People with Thyroid Conditions
Cabbage, like other cruciferous vegetables, contains goitrogens—compounds that can interfere with thyroid function, especially when consumed in large quantities. Goitrogens may inhibit the thyroid’s ability to absorb iodine, which can disrupt hormone production and overall thyroid health.
If you have a thyroid condition, particularly goiter (an enlargement of the thyroid gland), it’s best to limit or carefully monitor your intake of cabbage.
2. People with Digestive Sensitivities
Cabbage contains raffinose, a complex carbohydrate that the human body cannot fully digest. When it reaches the intestines, it ferments and produces gas, leading to bloating, flatulence, and abdominal discomfort.
If you have irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or are sensitive to high-fiber foods, cabbage might aggravate your symptoms.
3. People Prone to Allergies or Eye Irritation
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