8 Vegetables You Should Eat Raw

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1. Arugula

In Italy, raw arugula is often added to pizza after baking so that it doesn’t wilt, and coarsely chopped arugula is often added to pasta. In her book The Oxford Companion to Italian Food, Gillian Reilly notes that arugula is a part of “many unpretentious recipes in which it is added, chopped, to sauces and cooked dishes.”

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2. Bok Choy

Bok choy, a type of Chinese cabbage, was ranked second for nutrient density out of 41 “powerhouse” fruits and vegetables by the U.S. Center for Disease Control. Bok choy is delicious raw: Just chop it up and add to your favorite salad or simply toss with a light dressing.

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3. Broccoli

In addition to its potent anti-cancer properties, broccoli is high in vitamin C: A half-cup serving provides 52 mg, almost all of the recommended dietary allowance for an adult (60 mg). Broccoli is also an excellent source of indole-3-carbinol, a chemical that boosts DNA repair in cells and may inhibit the growth of cancer cells. Of all the cruciferous vegetables, broccoli has the highest level of carotenoids, which may reduce the risk of renal cancer and lung cancer.

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4. Brussels Sprouts

Like other crucifers, Brussels sprouts contain potential anti-cancer properties, and they also have high levels of vitamins C and K and B vitamins like folic acid and vitamin B6. People taking anticoagulants should talk to their doctor before eating Brussels sprouts, as vitamin K has a blood-clotting factor. While they are most often cooked, they are great raw as well: Just chop and toss with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper for a simple salad or side dish.

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