How Are the World’s Best Vegetables Determined, According to the US?

To rank fruits and vegetables, researchers at the CDC in the US utilized raw nutritional data, meaning the produce was analyzed in its raw form. This method ensures that any nutrients lost during cooking are not a factor, although it is important to note that cooking methods can affect the nutritional content of many vegetables.

The CDC’s research focused on 17 key nutrients, including fiber, potassium, iron, and vitamins A, C, D, E, and K.

As a result, 47 fruits and vegetables were ranked and scored based on their provision of these nutrients per calorie. The American magazine, First For Women, also filtered out the top 10 vegetables in the world from the CDC’s published list.

The Top 10 Vegetables as Rated by the US

Green leafy vegetables dominate the list of the world’s top 10 vegetables. Spinach tops the list with a perfect nutritional density score of 100. Following closely behind are other green leafy vegetables such as cabbage, rainbow chard, beet greens, and then spinach’s cousin, kale. These vegetables earn their high ranking due to their abundance of essential vitamins and minerals while remaining low in calories.

Here are the top 10 vegetables, including their scores:

+ Spinach (100.00 points)

+ Cabbage (91.99 points)

+ Rainbow Chard (89.27 points)

+ Beet Greens (87.08 points)

+ Kale (86.43 points)

+ Curly Endive (73.36 points)

+ Lettuce (70.73 points)

+ Parsley (65.59 points)

+ Romaine Lettuce (63.48 points)

+ Collard Greens (62.49 points)

This list comprises mostly dark, leafy greens, which are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with essential compounds like fiber, iron, and antioxidants. These nutrients are vital for overall health, from boosting immune function to maintaining strong bones and a healthy cardiovascular system.

As you can see, these vegetables are familiar and affordable for most Vietnamese families. You can easily find them at your local supermarket or traditional market.

Given the exceptional nutritional value of these vegetables, consider incorporating them into your family’s meals. They are versatile and can be prepared in a variety of ways, such as boiling, steaming, stir-frying with garlic, or even eaten raw in some cases. However, remember to purchase fresh, intact vegetables, avoiding any that are bruised or damaged, and always wash them thoroughly under running water before use.

You may also like

The Ultimate Superfood Trio: Vietnam’s National Vegetables Take the US by Storm

In 2023, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a list of the top 41 vegetables and fruits from around the world. This list includes many familiar favorites that are commonly used in Vietnamese cuisine.

Winter’s Sweet Delicacy: This Vegetable is a Tasty and Healthy Treat for Diabetics.

Winter is not just the perfect time to indulge in hearty, warming dishes, but it also presents an opportunity to discover nutrient-rich vegetables. One such vegetable boasts a naturally sweet and refreshing taste, offering an array of remarkable health benefits, especially for those managing diabetes.

5 Foods You Should Never Reheat

The festive season is a time of culinary delights, with an abundance of food gracing our tables. However, it’s important to be mindful of the potential health hazards that come with reheating certain dishes. The following five festive favorites should be enjoyed in moderation and with caution, as excessive reheating can lead to a host of health issues.

The Ultimate Superfood: A Leafy Green Delight for All Ages.

Spinach is a nutrient-dense superfood, packed with an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that benefit not only your hair but your overall health, too. This humble vegetable is a powerhouse of nutrition, offering a natural way to nourish and strengthen your hair from root to tip.

“Super Veggies: Nature’s Secret to Anti-Aging and Vitamin Boost”

Diễm Trang, the stunning first runner-up of Miss Vietnam 2014, found herself struggling with body image issues post-pregnancy, despite her acclaimed beauty and perfection. Her secret to shedding the pounds was not just rigorous exercise but also an unconventional diet that included a humble vegetable – water spinach, or as the locals call it, “rau chân vịt.”