This family of vegetables includes cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale and mustard greens. These vegetables are called cruciferous because their flowers resemble a cross. These vegetables can help lower the risk of colon, stomach and lung cancer. About one-third of the people in the United States are overweight. Using vegetables in main dishes and snacks can help you lose weight.
Vegetables are high in fiber.
Fiber is the part of plants that cannot be digested or absorbed by the body. A high-fiber diet may protect against colon cancer. All vegetables are sources of fiber. It is best to get fiber from food, rather than taking pills or other supplements. Too much fiber can make it harder for your body to absorb many nutrients, such as iron.