Health Benefits of Vegetables

People who eat fruit and vegetables as part of an overall healthy diet generally have a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Vegetables are important sources of many nutrients, including potassium, fiber, folate (folic acid) and vitamins A, E and C.

Potassium may help to maintain healthy blood pressure. Dietary fiber from vegetables helps reduce blood cholesterol levels and may lower risk of heart disease.

Folate (folic acid) helps the body form red blood cells. Women of childbearing age who may become pregnant and those in the first trimester of pregnancy need adequate folate to reduce the risk of neural tube defects and spina bifida during fetal development.

Eating vegetables provides health benefits

The nutrients in vegetables are vital for health and maintenance of your body.

Eating a diet rich in vegetables may reduce risk for stroke, other cardiovascular diseases and type-2 diabetes.

Eating a diet rich in vegetables as part of an overall healthy diet may also protect against certain cancers.

The high levels of potassium in vegetables may reduce the risk of developing kidney stones and help to decrease bone loss.

One and one-half to two and one-half cups of vegetables are recommended each day