We all know the best things to eat for our health is vegetables. There are so many different types of vegetables all with their own benefits. Vegetables can be broken down into two main categories, these are starchy and non starchy vegetables. Both of these categories have pros and cons so it is a good idea to get a mix of both. We are going to be focusing on non starchy vegetables so lets first look at what that means.
Non Starchy vegetables
What Are Non Starchy Vegetables?
Non starchy vegetables as the name suggests are vegetables that have a low starch content. Starch is a complex carbohydrate so non starchy vegetables contain lower amounts of carbohydrates. We do need carbohydrates in our diet and starchy vegetables are a healthy way to get carbohydrates but sometimes we need to limit our carbohydrate intake to keep it at healthy levels.
Non starchy vegetables are a great way to fill up, get your nutrients, and keep your carbohydrate intake down. They also tend to be lower in calories which means you can eat a higher quantity for fewer calories. Non starchy vegetables have a higher water content than starchy vegetables which means eating non starchy vegetables also provide hydration. So which vegetables are classed as non starchy? Keep reading for a list of 5 non starchy vegetables and their benefits.
List of Non Starchy Vegetables
- Broccoli
- Mushrooms
- Cucumber
- Artichokes
- Cauliflower
5 Non-Starchy Vegetables and Their Benefits
Broccoli
Broccoli is an amazing vegetable that is absolutely packed full of vitamins and minerals. Vitamin K increases bone density, sulforaphane helps to fight cancer, carotenoids improve eye health while also being a great source of protein and fiber. Broccoli also contains folic acid which can aid in a healthy pregnancy.
Mushrooms
There is a wide range of mushrooms all with varying minerals but the main benefit is the vitamin D content. Vitamin D is important for a lot of us as its a vitamin we make in the sun and many of us spend a lot of our time indoors. Vitamin D is important for bone and muscle health and can also affect mood and energy levels.
Cucumber
This vegetable has a 97% water content which is great to help you reach your hydration needs. They are also a great vegetable for weight loss due to their low-calorie count (just 16 calories per cup).
Artichokes
Artichokes are an unusual vegetable but have some amazing benefits. With 17 different vitamins and minerals they are truly a health powerhouse. They can even help lower bad cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure.
Cauliflower
Cauliflower has seen a glow up in recent years from cauliflower wings to cauliflower pizza and for good reason. Cauliflower contains cancer-fighting phytonutrients and antioxidants whilst being high in fiber. Choline present in cauliflower has been shown to help with memory, sleep, and learning.
I’m sure all of these amazing benefits have convinced you to eat more non starchy vegetables. They are an incredible, easy and tasty way of getting a variety of nutrients into your diet.
Non Starchy Vegetables | Image
