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Nutritional Information Of Vegetables

Friday, February 24, 2012

We all know that eating vegetables are healthy. However, most of us do not pay any attention to the nutritional information of these vegetables. The US Department of Agriculture recommends that people should be looking to consume 9 to 13 servings of vegetables and fruits every day in order to get the required amount of nutrients. Vegetables are the perfect food choice for people looking to lose weight, as they are low in calories and also keep the digestive system working optimally.

Some of the important nutrients present in vegetables include the following:

Vegetables are rich in vitamins that are extremely important for several body functions. Vitamin A present in vegetables helps to improve vision, boosts the immune system and encourage growth of bones. This vitamin is present in cantaloupes, sweet potatoes and carrots. Vitamin C, present in Brussels sprouts, bell peppers and broccoli, aids in healing of wounds and prevents common ailments, such as coughs and colds.

Antioxidants are compounds present in several vegetables. These antioxidants help to kill free radicals, which are responsible for several diseases, including cancer, and premature aging. Kale, alfalfa sprouts and Brussels sprouts contain the maximum amount of antioxidants, with kale containing the highest.

Vegetables are low in calories compared to any other foods. One cup of celery contains just 16 calories, as per the Nutrient Data Laboratory of the US Department of Agriculture. One cup of green beans contains 38 calories; while one cup of broccoli, chopped, contains 31 calories. The Harvard School of Public Health recommends that people consume vegetables at each meal to ensure that all nutrients are included.

Many people complain of constipation and bloating. This can be overcome by eating vegetables at all meals, as vegetables contain fiber and water. Vegetables are considered as low density foods that provide all the nutrients without the addition of calories. Hence, they help people feel full while aiding in weight loss. One cut of chopped bell pepper contains 2.5 g of fiber and 93 percent water. Other healthy and low density vegetable is Romaine lettuce, which contain 1 g of fiber and 93 percent of water in each serving.

If you do not eat vegetables regularly, now is the time to change your eating habits. Make sure that you consume lots of vegetables during lunch and dinner, as it will reduce the chances of suffering from a stroke or getting diagnosed with a heart ailment. The vegetables will also help lower elevated blood pressure and protect your body from malignancies.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6720343

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