7 of the Healthiest Vegetables to Grow in Your Garden

Back in our grandparent’s or great grandparents’ days, it was natural to grow fields of vegetables. It meant survival with enough food to last through the cold months. But with our western culture, a deluge of farmer’s markets and apartment living individuals, gardens fell by the wayside for decades. Today, that is all changing. More and more people are converting their backyards and some front yards into nutrient-dense gardens, growing foods that are some of the healthiest vegetables on the planet. I’ve also seen container gardens in porches, on fences, and even old bathtubs.

Plus, gardening has become a sanative hobby. Spending time outside, digging in the earth, and designing a functional garden is rewarding and can improve our cognition and mental health.

Kale

Kale is one of the most nutrient-rich foods we can grow. It’s loaded with antioxidants, high in fiber and vitamin C, vitamin K, calcium, and many other nutrients. It helps keep our bodies inflammation free, promotes bone health, protects cardiovascular health, supports eye health, and is low in calories. Eat lots!

Tomatoes

Tomatoes have an abundance of health benefits. Rich in the antioxidant lycopene, it naturally protects our cells from free radical damage. They are a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and folate.

Potatoes

Potatoes are loaded with potassium, fiber, vitamin C, vitamin b, antioxidants, lysine, along with a high concentration of macro and trace minerals. They are antiviral, antifungal, naturally gluten-free and the main staple for many families. Potatoes have gotten a bad rap over the years and have been blamed for illness and obesity. Truth is, they are good for us.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are not only delicious, they are packed with an abundance of nutrition. They are rich in vitamins B5, C, E & D, riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, carotenoids, minerals like iron and manganese. Sweet potatoes contain anti-inflammatory properties and are high in potassium.

Bell Peppers

Bell Peppers come in a variety of colors and flavors. They contain an extraordinary level of vitamin C which helps absorb iron. They’re packed with vitamin A and beta carotene. They are also a great source of vitamin B6, fiber, potassium, folate, and lycopene.

Cauliflower

Cauliflower has a nutrition profile that is impressive. They are high in vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, B-complex, omega 3, and a variety of minerals. They’re anti-inflammatory, antiaging, and contain potent anti-cancer compounds like sulforaphane.

Garlic

Garlic is not only a delicious spice, but it’s also recognized for its potent medicinal properties. It boasts supreme antibiotics, anti-viral, antifungal, and anti-cancer properties. Garlic is enriched in numerous vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, B6, folate, iron, calcium, potassium, manganese, magnesium, zinc, and much more.