4 Types of People Who Should Avoid Eating Cabbage – When This Superfood Isn’t So Super

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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: