You might think you know what carrots and beets are, and if you’re like most folks, you think they’re vegetables. Actually, vegetables aren’t real…….at least not in botany. While the term “fruit” is recognized botanically as anything that contains seeds, “vegetable” is a broad umbrella term for many types of edible plants. Carrots, beets and other vegetables that grow in the ground are actually the true roots of plants. Lettuce and spinach are the leaves, while celery and asparagus are the stems. Greens such as broccoli, artichokes and cauliflower are immature flowers. Cucumbers, squash, eggplant and avocados are classified as fruit. It’s important to eat a variety of vegetables, since each one has varying beneficial nutrients. Dark leafy greens such as spinach and kale are great sources of natural nutrients that help to keep vision sharp, while carrots can help strengthen night vision. Potassium-rich vegetables and fruit, such as potatoes, pumpkin and squash, can help to lower blood pressure, and other fruits and vegetables play an important role in lowering the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. The one piece of advice your mother gave you growing up that’s still true today is, “eat your vegetables.”
