Are Cabbages Goitrogenic?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Vegetables of the Brassica family (i.e., broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, rapeseed) contain glucosinolates, which are

potent goitrogenic substances

. The metabolites of glucosinolates compete with iodine for thyroidal uptake.

Is cabbage bad for thyroid?

So if you do, it’s a good idea to limit your intake of Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, kale, turnips, and bok choy, because research suggests digesting these vegetables

may block the thyroid’s ability to utilize iodine

, which is essential for normal thyroid function.

Is cooked cabbage goitrogenic?

“Cooking cruciferous vegetables

lessens their goitrogenic properties

,” says Rustveld. “It reduces the effect of goitrogens on the thyroid, so they don’t cause any problem” in normal quantities. But you don’t have to overcook your veggies until they’re mushy; normal cooking or steaming should do the trick.

What vegetables are goitrogenic?

Goitrogenic foods: Goitrogenic are foods that can affect thyroid function by inhibiting synthesis of thyroid hormones, resulting in enlargement of the gland (goiter). Goitrogenic foods include

Brussel sprouts, kohlrabi, turnips, rutabaga, radishes, cabbage, kale, and cauliflower

.

How does cabbage cause goiter?

In the developing world, people who live inland or at high elevations are often iodine deficient and can develop goiters when the thyroid enlarges in an effort to obtain more iodine. Iodine deficiency may be made worse by a

diet high in hormone-inhibiting foods

, such as cabbage, broccoli and cauliflower.

What are the side effects of cabbage?

Cabbage is a common gas-producing vegetable. It’s also high in fructans, a type of carb that individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) often have a difficult time digesting ( 33 ). Even with low intakes of cabbage, people with IBS may experience symptoms, such as

bloating, abdominal pain, and diarrhea

( 34 ).

Are almonds bad for thyroid?

It can cause problems for those at risk for low thyroid function. Almonds are a goitrogenic food, meaning, when consumed in large quantities, they

can suppress the function of the thyroid gland by interfering with iodine uptake

, causing an enlargement of the thyroid.

Is Sweet Potato bad for thyroid?

Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of vitamin A, which

supports thyroid hormone

.

Why is broccoli bad for you?

Health risks

In general,

broccoli is safe to eat

, and any side effects are not serious. The most common side effect is gas or bowel irritation, caused by broccoli’s high amounts of fiber. “All cruciferous vegetables can make you gassy,” Jarzabkowski said. “But the health benefits outweigh the discomfort.”

What a thyroid patient should not eat?

  • Soy foods: tofu, tempeh, edamame, etc.
  • Certain vegetables: cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, spinach, etc.
  • Fruits and starchy plants: sweet potatoes, cassava, peaches, strawberries, etc.
  • Nuts and seeds: millet, pine nuts, peanuts, etc.

What vegetables help thyroid?

Cruciferous vegetables, such as

kale, Brussels sprouts, radishes, and cauliflower

. Also known as goitrogenic foods (foods that can help lower thyroid hormone production), they may inhibit your thyroid gland’s ability to process iodine and produce thyroid hormones—potentially easing symptoms of hyperthyroidism.

Are potatoes goitrogenic?

Goitrogenic foods include (1) cruciferous vegetables (i.e., broccoli, kale, and cabbage) that contain thioglucosides, which are metabolized to thiocyanates and inhibit iodine uptake from the thyroid gland, (2) sweet potatoes, cassava, and lima beans, which contain cyanogenic glucosides that may be metabolized into …

What vegetables are not goitrogenic?

There are many highly nutritious vegetables that aren’t goitrogenic, including

celery, parsley, zucchini, carrots and more

. Our bodies need many nutrients and by eating a variety of vegetables you’ll ensure that you don’t overload on one and skip another.

What happens if a goiter is left untreated?

Goiter can cause

cosmetic concerns and affect breathing and swallowing

. Cardiac (heart) problems: Hypothyroidism increases the risk of heart disease, causes irregular heart rate and heart failure.

What is the best medicine for goiter?


Levothyroxine (Levothroid®, Synthroid®)

is a thyroid hormone replacement therapy. It is prescribed if the cause of the goiter is an underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism). Other medications are prescribed if the cause of the goiter is an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism).

Can goiters go away?

Goiters are often harmless and

may go away after a short time without treatment

. People usually do not need treatment unless the goiter is large and causes bothersome symptoms.

Emily Lee
Author
Emily Lee
Emily Lee is a freelance writer and artist based in New York City. She’s an accomplished writer with a deep passion for the arts, and brings a unique perspective to the world of entertainment. Emily has written about art, entertainment, and pop culture.