Vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Fiber helps us feel full and is important for a healthy digestive tract! Vitamins and minerals are the shining stars of vegetables and fruits. Without them, our body wouldn't be able to do a lot of the things it needs. Including, fighting infection, preventing disease, clear eyesight— the list goes on and on. Vegetables can even reduce the risk of chronic illnesses like cardiovascular disease.
These foods are incredibly powerful in our diet, yet 90% of Americans aren't eating enough vegetables. Most adults will need to eat at least 2 cup equivalents per day, that's equal to 4 cups of lettuce or 2 large bell peppers.
To find out how much vegetables you need, check the MyPlate website.
Updated by: H.K. Soto