The #1 Healthiest Vegetable of Them All Is A Big Surprise
The Healthiest Vegetable of Them All Is A Big Surprise
Let’s face it: veggies aren’t exactly ice cream or chicken nuggets.
For most of us, the veggie struggle is real. We’ve been force-fed them since the days of strained peas, and they still don’t quite hit the spot like a double cheeseburger.
But they’re packed with the good stuff, so we have to find a way to sneak them into our diets.
According to the CDC, the veggie MVP isn’t broccoli or spinach. Nope. It’s watercress, a type of lettuce that’s so nutrient-packed it blows the competition out of the water. And no, it doesn’t mean you have to munch on watercress alone forever – balance is key!
So, what makes watercress the healthiest vegetable?
It’s nutrient-dense, which means it’s loaded with vitamins and minerals for very few calories. However, don’t rely only on this leafy green because it doesn’t have much fiber. Mix things up!
Here’s a quick rundown of the top 10 most nutrient-dense veggies:
- Watercress – The champ!
- Chinese cabbage – A crunchy alternative.
- Chard – Earthy and delicious.
- Beet greens – Don’t throw away those tops!
- Spinach – Finally, one you’ve heard of.
- Chicory – A bit bitter, but full of goodness.
- Leaf lettuce – Think beyond iceberg.
- Parsley – A sprinkle of this herb can do wonders, but don’t go overboard.
- Romaine lettuce – A salad classic.
- Collard greens – Southern comfort, packed with nutrition.
Not a fan of these? Don’t worry! Arugula, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are also strong contenders. On the flip side, the least nutrient-dense veggies are celery, iceberg lettuce, and cucumbers, which are mostly just water.
Bottom line? The more variety of veggies you eat, the better. So, even if they don’t taste like ice cream, your body will thank you.
