Raw potatoes are a recipe for trouble. Starchy, bitter, and laden with solanine—a natural toxin—they can cause stomach upset and, in extreme cases, toxicity. Green patches and sprouts are red flags for high solanine levels.
Also known as aubergines, eggplants are stunning on the outside but problematic when uncooked. Packed with solanine, raw eggplants can lead to nausea and headaches.
Rhubarb’s stalks may be pie-worthy, but the leaves are a toxic no-go. Loaded with oxalic acid, they’re downright dangerous. Even the stalks benefit from cooking to tame their tartness. Bake, boil, or stew rhubarb to enjoy its tangy essence safely.
While spinach is packed with nutrients, eating it raw may reduce calcium absorption due to high oxalate levels. This can contribute to kidney stones in some cases.
Raw kidney beans are a health hazard. They contain lectins, which can trigger severe nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Even a small amount can be harmful.
Brussels sprouts might be polarizing, but raw, they’re tough on digestion and contain goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid function. Roasting or steaming these mini cabbages enhances their nutty, sweet flavor.
Social interactions in cats are governed by an intricate neural framework that dictates their behavior in groups. Unlike solitary creatures, domestic cats have a social structure that is both complex and adaptable.