Cabbage

🥬 What Is Cabbage?
Cabbage is a leafy vegetable from the Brassica family, which also includes broccoli, kale, and cauliflower. It is naturally rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, B vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Cabbage is commonly enjoyed raw, cooked, or fermented in dishes like coleslaw, stir-fries, soups, and sauerkraut.

🤔 Why Might a Sensitivity to Cabbage Occur?
A sensitivity to cabbage may occur due to several natural components found in this vegetable:

• FODMAPs: Cabbage contains fermentable carbohydrates that may create digestive discomfort, especially for individuals who are sensitive to FODMAPs.

• Glucosinolates: These naturally occurring sulfur compounds may be more noticeable in certain individuals.

• Higher Fiber Content: Because cabbage is fiber-dense, some may feel more discomfort if their digestion is already sensitive.

• Cross-reactivity: If someone notices sensitivities to other cruciferous vegetables, they may notice similar responses with cabbage.

🛠️ What Can I Do About It?

• Avoid cabbage for 8 weeks to give your system time to settle.

• Check dishes like coleslaw, stir-fries, soups, or kimchi, which may contain cabbage.

• After 8 weeks, reintroduce small amounts and observe your response before retesting.

💊 Supportive General Supplements

• Digestive enzymes – May support the breakdown of fermentable carbohydrates.

• Probiotics – May support gut balance and reduce fermentation-related discomfort.

• Activated charcoal – Sometimes used for general support with bloating.

• Curcumin – Often used for overall digestive comfort and soothing.

🌟 Why Might a Sensitivity to Cabbage Occur but Not to Other Cruciferous Vegetables?

• Different FODMAP composition: Cabbage contains certain fermentable fibers that may differ from those in broccoli, kale, or cauliflower.

• Sulfur variation: The natural sulfur compounds in cabbage may differ in concentration compared to other cruciferous vegetables.

• Texture and fiber structure: Cabbage tends to be denser and more fibrous, especially when raw.

• Preparation methods: Cabbage is often eaten raw, while many other cruciferous vegetables are typically cooked, which may alter the way their components are tolerated.

🍽️ Popular Dishes That Contain Cabbage

• Coleslaw

• Cabbage stir-fries

• Sauerkraut

• Cabbage rolls

🍽️ Alternatives (if tolerated)

• Spinach

• Zucchini

• Broccoli (if tolerated)

• Swiss chard