Blocking iodine uptake (iodine is essential for hormone production)
Disrupting the synthesis of thyroid hormones
Potentially worsening hypothyroidism or enlarging an existing goiter
What to Do:
✅ Limit raw cabbage — goitrogens are more active in raw form.
✅ Cook it thoroughly — steaming, boiling, or fermenting reduces goitrogen levels significantly.
✅ Ensure adequate iodine intake — from iodized salt, seafood, or dairy.
❌ Avoid large amounts if you have untreated or poorly managed thyroid disease.
💡 Note: Moderate cooked cabbage is usually fine for most — but talk to your doctor if you’re on thyroid medication.
❌ 2. People With Digestive Sensitivities (IBS, SIBO, or Bloating Issues)
Why:
Cabbage contains raffinose, a complex sugar (oligosaccharide) that humans can’t fully digest. When it reaches the large intestine, gut bacteria ferment it — producing gas, bloating, cramps, and discomfort.
This makes cabbage a common trigger for those with:
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth (SIBO)
FODMAP sensitivity
What to Do:
✅ Try small portions of well-cooked cabbage
✅ Fermented cabbage (like sauerkraut) may be better tolerated — but not always
❌ Limit raw cabbage in salads or slaws if it causes symptoms
✅ Consider a low-FODMAP diet under guidance if digestive issues persist
❌ 3. People Prone to Allergies or Histamine Reactions
Why:
Though rare, some people are allergic to cabbage. Symptoms may include:
Skin rash or hives
Itching or swelling (especially around mouth)
Sneezing, watery eyes, runny nose
In severe cases: difficulty breathing (anaphylaxis)
Additionally, cabbage naturally contains histamines and may also release histamine in sensitive individuals, triggering allergy-like symptoms even without a true allergy.
What to Do:
❌ Avoid cabbage if you’ve had a known reaction
✅ Keep an antihistamine on hand if mild sensitivities occur
🔁 Talk to an allergist for testing if symptoms are unclear
🚨 Note: “Eye bleeding” is not a typical symptom of cabbage intolerance — this may be a mistranslation or exaggeration. Watery or irritated eyes? Yes. Bleeding? No — seek medical help immediately if that occurs.
❌ 4. People With Kidney Problems or Prone to Kidney Stones
Why:
Cabbage contains oxalates (oxalic acid), which bind with calcium in the body and can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate kidney stones — the most common type.
While cabbage is moderate in oxalates (not as high as spinach or rhubarb), those with:
A history of kidney stones
Chronic kidney disease (CKD)
Hyperoxaluria (excess oxalate in urine)
…should monitor their intake of high- and moderate-oxalate foods.
What to Do:
