Off The Record

4 Types of People Who Should Avoid Eating Cabbage, According to Health Experts

Published on May 5, 2025

Cabbage is often celebrated as a nutritional powerhouse — packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and powerful antioxidants like sulforaphane.

It’s low in calories, supports digestive health, and has even been linked to reduced inflammation and a lower risk of chronic diseases. Whether raw in coleslaw, fermented into sauerkraut, or sautéed into stir-fries, cabbage is a staple in diets around the world.

However, despite its many benefits, cabbage isn’t ideal for everyone.

As with many foods, what’s healthy for one person might cause complications for another — especially when underlying health conditions are involved.

While cabbage may boost immunity and aid detoxification, it can also interfere with medications, worsen certain medical symptoms, and trigger digestive issues in sensitive individuals.

That’s why nutritionists and healthcare professionals caution that some people should consume cabbage sparingly — or avoid it altogether.

Here are four groups of people who should think twice before loading up on this leafy cruciferous veggie.

1. People with Hypothyroidism

Cabbage contains goitrogens — naturally occurring substances that can interfere with thyroid hormone production by inhibiting iodine uptake.

For individuals with hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), consuming large amounts of raw cabbage may exacerbate their condition. Cooking cabbage significantly reduces its goitrogenic effects, but people with thyroid issues are still advised to monitor their intake and consult with a healthcare provider.

2. Individuals Taking Blood Thinners

Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin K, which plays a key role in blood clotting.

While that’s typically a good thing, it can be problematic for people taking anticoagulant medications such as warfarin (Coumadin).

High vitamin K intake can reduce the effectiveness of these medications, potentially increasing the risk of blood clots or stroke. Health professionals often recommend that these individuals maintain consistent — and not excessive — vitamin K levels to ensure their medication works properly.

3. People with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)

Cabbage is high in fermentable carbohydrates known as FODMAPs — short-chain sugars that are poorly absorbed in the gut.

For people with IBS or sensitive digestive systems, eating cabbage can lead to bloating, gas, cramping, and diarrhea. While some may tolerate cooked cabbage better than raw, many nutritionists recommend avoiding it during IBS flare-ups or eliminating it altogether as part of a low-FODMAP diet plan.

4. Those with a History of Kidney Stones

Cabbage contains moderate levels of oxalates, compounds that can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in susceptible individuals — particularly calcium oxalate stones.

While cabbage isn’t as oxalate-dense as spinach or beets, regular consumption in large amounts could potentially raise the risk in people prone to stone formation. Those with a history of kidney stones should speak with a dietitian before adding cruciferous vegetables like cabbage into their regular meal rotation.

Conclusion

Cabbage has long been hailed as a superfood, but like many things in nutrition, context matters. For most people, it’s a healthy addition to meals. But if you fall into one of the four categories above, it’s worth paying closer attention.

Always consult a doctor or registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet — especially if you’re managing chronic health conditions or taking prescription medications.