The Amazing Health Benefits of Cabbage
Summary
Cabbage is a cruciferous vegetable with well-known anti-cancer properties, but Dr. Berg highlights its lesser-known ability to heal the intestinal lining. Its natural glutamine content makes it a powerful remedy for a wide range of digestive conditions. Regular consumption is recommended, especially for those dealing with serious gut issues.
Key Takeaways
- Cabbage belongs to the cruciferous vegetable family and has anti-cancer properties
- Contains a natural chemical glutamine, which supports repair of the intestinal barrier
- Effective for conditions including ulcers, leaky gut, irritable bowel syndrome, diverticulitis, gastritis, and acid reflux
- Best consumed as coleslaw, raw salad, or fresh juice
- If cooking, steam lightly to preserve beneficial compounds — avoid overcooking
- People with serious digestive issues should aim to include cabbage every single day
- Most people tolerate cabbage well with minimal bloating
Details
Gut-Healing Properties
The primary active compound highlighted is glutamine, an amino acid naturally present in cabbage that supports the integrity of the intestinal wall. This makes cabbage particularly useful for conditions where the gut lining is compromised or inflamed, including:
- Leaky gut syndrome — where the intestinal barrier becomes permeable
- Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
- Ulcers and gastritis
- Diverticulitis
- Acid reflux
Recommended Preparation Methods
Dr. Berg outlines several ways to consume cabbage, ranked by effectiveness for retaining nutrients:
- Raw in coleslaw or salad — preferred method to maximize nutrient retention
- Freshly juiced — a concentrated way to get the beneficial compounds
- Lightly steamed — acceptable, but avoid overcooking as heat degrades the active properties
- Blended — mentioned as a possible option, though not a personal recommendation
Dosage & Frequency
- For general health, incorporating cabbage regularly into meals is sufficient
- For serious or chronic digestive issues, daily consumption is strongly recommended
- No specific gram amount is given, but the emphasis is on consistent daily intake
Tolerability
Unlike some other cruciferous vegetables, cabbage is noted to be well-tolerated by most people, with little to no bloating reported — making it a practical option even for those with sensitive digestive systems.