Side Effects of Cauliflower
Cauliflower, like broccoli, kale and cabbage, is part of the cruciferous family of vegetables. Cauliflower features a compact head of white flower buds surrounded by heavy green leaves.
Cauliflower, like broccoli, kale and cabbage, is part of the cruciferous family of vegetables. Cauliflower features a compact head of white flower buds surrounded by heavy green leaves. Cruciferous vegetables contain compounds that may lower the risks of some cancers; however, cauliflower also comes with some unfortunate side effects.
Allergic Response
Although the incidence may be rare, some people may suffer an adverse reaction to eating cauliflower. Cauliflower may prompt an allergic response characterized by symptoms such as severe itching, facial and hand swelling and breathing difficulties. If you develop allergy symptoms after eating cauliflower, seek medical attention.
Gout
Cauliflower contains purines. Purines are naturally occurring substances found in various foods and vegetables such as offal meats, sardines, pilchards, beef, spinach, kale, aubergine and cabbage. Purines are broken down in the body to form uric acid. An excess of purines triggers a gout attack in sensitive individuals, and may form kidney stones. If you suffer from gout -- a condition caused by deposits of uric acid in your tissues -- avoid purine-rich foods such as cauliflower to avoid aggravating your condition,
Gas and Bloating
Cauliflower contains non-digestible carbohydrates that cause gas and bloating in the digestive system. Sulphur-rich cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower leads to a smellier variety of gas, according to the BBC guide.
Health Benefits
Cauliflower is a rich source of sulphur-containing glucosinolates that help lower the risk of some cancers such as colorectal cancer and lung cancer, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. Cauliflower contains vitamin C and folate and acts as an antioxidant, scavenging harmful free-radicals in the body.