Take a quiz to learn more about vegetables and find out if your family gets optimum nutrition.
Only one in every 10 Americans eats the recommended two to three cups of vegetables a day. Children especially need a healthy serving, as vegetables help strengthen bones and teeth, improve eyesight and boost cognition. “Obesity and diabetes are on the rise, so make sure you and your kids are getting enough vegetables to fuel your bodies and fight disease,” says Abby Rowe, RD, LDN, a clinical dietitian at Carolinas HealthCare System Lincoln. She encourages filling half of your plate with colorful vegetables at meal times, and to “keep fresh veggie sticks and hummus ready for a healthy snack on the run!” How much do you know about vegetables? Take the quiz below to find out. It’s fun for kids too! TAKE QUIZPlus, check out these Holiday Vegetable Super Stars: Carrots – Carrots are a good source of beta-carotene, fiber and antioxidants. They help reduce cholesterol and signs of premature aging as well as improve eyesight (thanks to vitamins A and K). Carrots may even help to ward off certain cancers. Tomatoes – Tomatoes are an excellent source of vitamins C, K, A, E and B6. They include vital nutrients such as biotin, copper, potassium, manganese, niacin and folate. These nutrients help smooth skin, fight diabetes, increase digestion and stimulate blood circulation. Broccoli – Dark green vegetables such as broccoli are an excellent source of vitamins K, C, B1 and A. Because it’s very high in dietary fiber, broccoli improves digestion and acts as a detoxifying agent for the entire body. Steam it to take advantage of its incredible cholesterol-lowering benefits. Leafy Greens – Leafy greens, like kale or spinach, are high in fiber and rich in folic acid, vitamin C, potassium and magnesium as well as phytonutrients like lutein and beta-carotene. One of the best detox foods for your body, leafy greens contain a variety of antioxidants that help protect you from various diseases, especially those of the stomach and colon. Do you wish you had a community to inspire you and support the choices you make to improve your family’s nutrition habits? Now you do. Join the conversation, or start your own, using #TasteOfHealth
