Vegetables are parts of plants that are consumed by
humans or other animals as food. The original meaning is still commonly
used and is applied to plants collectively to refer to all edible plant
matter, including the flowers, fruits, stems, leaves, roots, and seeds.
Vegetables can be eaten either raw or cooked and play
an important role in human nutrition, being mostly low in fat and
carbohydrates, but high in vitamins, minerals and dietary fiber. Many
nutritionists encourage people to consume plenty of fruit and
vegetables, five or more portions a day often being recommended.
Important are the antioxidant vitamins A, C, and E.
When vegetables are included in the diet, there is found to be a
reduction in the incidence of cancer, stroke, cardiovascular disease,
and other chronic ailments.
