Vegetable

Vegetables play an important role in human nutrition. Most are low in fat and calories but are bulky and filling. They supply dietary fiber and are important sources of essential vitamins, minerals, and trace elements.

Vegetables provide nutrients vital for health and maintenance of your body, such as vitamins A and C, fiber, folate, and potassium. For a list of the health benefits associated with vegetables, see Nutrients and Health Benefits on the Vegetable page.

Vegetable is a broad term that refers to a group of plants that you can eat. You may be able to eat the whole plant or just parts, such as the leaves, stalk, and seeds. In general, vegetables are low in calories but high in nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, and fiber.