Dangers of broccoli that you probably didn't know about
Who should not eat broccoli (photo: Freepik)
Broccoli is deservedly considered one of the healthiest vegetables in the world due to its rich composition of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. However, even this superfood has its drawbacks, which can have a negative impact on health if consumed improperly or in excessive amounts.
Who can be harmed by broccoli
People with thyroid problems
Broccoli contains substances known as goitrogens. They can affect the production of thyroid hormones, especially if the body is deficient in iodine. Therefore, people with hypothyroidism should limit their consumption of raw broccoli.
In case of digestive problems
A large amount of fiber in broccoli can cause bloating, flatulence, and stomach discomfort, especially in people with a sensitive digestive tract.
Risk of allergic reactions
In some people, broccoli can cause allergic reactions due to the presence of specific proteins that cause itching, swelling, or irritation.
Incompatibility with certain drugs
Broccoli is rich in vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting. Therefore, people who take blood thinners should be careful when consuming this vegetable.
How to avoid harm from broccoli
- Heat treatment (steaming or cooking) reduces the content of goitrogens, so people with thyroid problems should consume broccoli in boiled form.
- Moderation is the key to safety. The optimal portion of broccoli for an adult is 200-300 grams per day.
- It is important to wash the vegetables thoroughly before consumption to avoid pesticide residues or contamination.
Broccoli remains one of the healthiest vegetables, but its consumption should be moderate and take into account individual characteristics of the body. As with any product, it is important to strike a balance to avoid unpleasant health consequences.
Sources: Healthline and WebMD health sites, MedicalNewsToday.
This material is for informational purposes only and should not be used for medical diagnosis or self-treatment. Our goal is to provide readers with accurate information about symptoms, causes, and methods of detecting diseases. RBС-Ukraine is not responsible for any diagnoses that readers may make based on materials from the resource. We do not recommend self-treatment and advise consulting a doctor in case of any health concerns.
