Who should not drink cabbage juice?
Cabbage juice has become a popular health drink in recent years due to its potential benefits. However, it may not be suitable for everyone. Here is an in-depth look at who should avoid drinking cabbage juice.
People with Kidney Problems
Cabbage is high in vitamin K, which helps with blood clotting. For people with kidney disease or those on blood thinners, too much vitamin K can be problematic. The high vitamin K content in cabbage juice can reduce the effectiveness of blood-thinning medications like warfarin. It may also further compromise kidney function in those with kidney disease.
People Prone to Kidney Stones
Cabbage contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in those prone to the condition. While small amounts of oxalates from vegetables like cabbage are not a problem for most people, if you have a history of kidney stones, it’s best to avoid drinking high-oxalate cabbage juice.
People with Thyroid Problems
Cabbage contains goitrogens, substances that can interfere with thyroid function by blocking iodine uptake. This can exacerbate hypothyroidism or cause thyroid swelling in sensitive individuals. People with thyroid issues should minimize consumption of raw cabbage juice to avoid potential thyroid disruption.
People Taking Certain Medications
Cabbage juice can interact with certain medications, either reducing their effectiveness or increasing side effects. People taking blood thinners, lithium, antibiotics like ciprofloxacin, and hypertension drugs should avoid cabbage juice unless approved by their doctor.
Pregnant Women
The high vitamin K content of cabbage makes it unsuitable for pregnant women, especially in the last trimester. High vitamin K intake shortly before delivery can cause neonatal bleeding in the newborn due to vitamin K deficiency. Pregnant women should only drink cabbage juice under medical supervision.
People with Digestive Issues
Cabbage juice can aggravate certain digestive conditions like ulcers, IBS, and inflammatory bowel disease. This is due to the high fiber content acting as an intestinal irritant. People with digestive issues should start with a small amount of diluted cabbage juice to assess tolerance.
People Prone to Anemia
Cabbage contains acids that can inhibit iron absorption and exacerbate anemia. People with a history of anemia or iron deficiency should avoid drinking cabbage juice regularly, as the impaired iron absorption can worsen their condition.
People with Gout
Cabbage belongs to the brassica family of vegetables, which are high in purines. For those susceptible to gout, increased purine intake can raise uric acid levels and trigger gout attacks and flare-ups. People with gout should avoid drinking cabbage juice.
People with Hypothyroidism
As mentioned earlier, cabbage contains goitrogens which can disrupt thyroid function by blocking iodine uptake. Those with hypothyroidism could see their condition worsen with regular consumption of raw cabbage juice. Cooked cabbage is better tolerated.
People Taking Antidepressants
Cabbage contains high levels of tyramine, which can cause dangerous interactions with MAO inhibitor antidepressants. This can lead to a hypertensive crisis. All people taking MAO inhibitors should avoid drinking cabbage juice.
People with Bleeding Disorders
Due to its vitamin K content, cabbage juice can slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding episodes in those with bleeding disorders like hemophilia. They should avoid consuming vitamin K-rich cabbage juice.
People with Diabetes
Cabbage is a starchy vegetable containing carbohydrates which can impact blood sugar levels. People with diabetes need to be mindful of portion size and monitor blood sugar closely when trying cabbage juice to prevent spikes.
People with Sulfa Allergies
Cabbage contains low levels of sulfa, a sulfur-based compound. People with severe sulfa allergies could react to cabbage juice with symptoms like rash, stomach upset, and breathing difficulties in rare cases.
People on Blood Thinners
As mentioned earlier, the vitamin K content of cabbage can interfere with the effects of blood thinners like warfarin and increase clotting time. People on anticoagulant therapy should avoid drinking cabbage juice.
People with Gallbladder Issues
The high fiber content of cabbage juice can exacerbate gallbladder problems like gallstones and inflammation. People with gallbladder conditions should start with a small amount of diluted cabbage juice to check for tolerability.
People Prone to Gas and Bloating
For some people, raw cabbage juice can cause excessive gas, bloating, and abdominal discomfort due to cabbage’s fiber content. Those prone to gas should start with a small portion of cabbage juice and discontinue use if side effects develop.
People with an Upcoming Surgery
It’s best to stop drinking cabbage juice at least 2 weeks before any scheduled surgery because of its vitamin K content, which can interfere with blood clotting during and after surgery.
Conclusion
Cabbage juice may not be suitable for everyone due to potential risks for certain populations. People with kidney issues, thyroid conditions, gout, gallbladder problems, bleeding disorders, and upcoming surgery should avoid drinking cabbage juice. It’s also best for pregnant women, people on certain medications, and those with digestive issues to exercise caution with cabbage juice and seek medical advice before trying it.
Cabbage Juice Nutrition Facts
Here is an overview of the nutrition facts of cabbage juice in a 1 cup (240 ml) serving:
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 36 |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Carbohydrates | 8 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Vitamin C | 53% DV |
| Vitamin K | 287% DV |
| Folate | 12% DV |
| Calcium | 6% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
| Potassium | 12% DV |
DV = Daily Value. Percentages based on a 2000 calorie diet.
As you can see, cabbage juice is very low in calories and fat. It provides a good amount of vitamin C, vitamin K, and also some fiber, folate, calcium, iron and potassium.
Potential Benefits of Cabbage Juice
Here is an overview of some of the potential health benefits associated with drinking cabbage juice:
- Rich in antioxidants – Contains compounds like anthocyanins and flavonoids with antioxidant properties to help reduce oxidative stress.
- Anti-inflammatory – The antioxidant and sulfur compounds in cabbage can help lower inflammation in the body.
- Supports digestion – The fiber, vitamins, minerals, and enzymes in cabbage juice promote better digestion and gut health.
- May boost immunity – The vitamin C content helps support immune function and prevent viral illnesses.
- Supplies probiotics – Fermented cabbage juice contains beneficial probiotics that improve gut bacteria.
- Aids detoxification – Sulfur compounds help support liver detoxification of wastes and toxins.
- Rich in vitamin K – The high vitamin K content aids blood clotting and bone health.
Despite these benefits, keep in mind raw cabbage juice may not be suitable for the groups mentioned earlier due to potential risks. More research is also needed to substantiate many of these benefit claims.
How to Make Cabbage Juice
Here is a simple recipe for how to make basic cabbage juice at home:
Ingredients:
- 1 small head green cabbage
- 2 carrots, peeled
- 1 apple, cored
- 1 inch ginger, peeled
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Water as needed
Instructions:
- Chop the cabbage, carrots, apple and ginger into chunks that will fit through your juicer feed tube.
- Run the ingredients through your juicer one at a time in the order listed above.
- Stir in the lemon juice and dilute with a small amount of water if desired.
- Drink immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For improved digestion, drink your cabbage juice slowly. You can also dilute it with more water or mix it into smoothies if you don’t enjoy the taste straight.
Side Effects of Cabbage Juice
Drinking cabbage juice, especially in excess, can cause some unwanted effects in sensitive individuals. Here are some of the possible side effects:
- Gas and bloating
- Intestinal discomfort
- Diarrhea
- Nausea
- Reduced appetite
- Goiter risk
- Blood clotting interactions
- Kidney stones
- Gout flares
- Hypothyroidism
- Anemia
To help avoid side effects, start with a small amount of diluted cabbage juice and avoid drinking more than 1 cup per day. Discontinue use if any concerning symptoms develop.
The Bottom Line
Cabbage juice provides nutrients like vitamin C and K but may not be suitable for everyone. Those with kidney issues, bleeding disorders, thyroid conditions, upcoming surgery and other health concerns should avoid drinking cabbage juice due to risks. For most people, enjoying cabbage juice in moderation should not pose any major health risks. But as with any new food, it’s wise to show caution and seek medical guidance if you have any concerns.
