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A dietitian reveals the top 10 high-fiber vegetables that enhance digestive health, lower the risk of diseases, and assist in weight loss—all while promoting your overall well-being without the added calories.
Fiber might not be the first nutrient you think of when considering the best options for staying healthy. Nevertheless, fiber is a crucial component for digestive health and various aspects of overall well-being. Research indicates that fiber aids in regulating bowel movements, lowering cholesterol, and can assist in weight management by enhancing feelings of fullness and prolonging satiety.
Though many associate fiber with grains and cereals, vegetables can often be an even better source of this essential nutrient, as noted by the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Adding a range of high-fiber vegetables to your diet can improve gut health, decrease chronic disease risk, and promote weight loss. Studies consistently demonstrate that a fiber-heavy diet can reduce your chances of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Moreover, vegetables offer a great way to boost your fiber intake without the surplus of calories.
Broccoli
Nutrition (per ½-cup):
Calories: 15
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 15 mg
Carbs: 3 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 1 g)
Protein: 1 g
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse that offers plenty of health benefits, thanks to its high fiber content and rich array of vitamins and minerals. In addition to being fiber-packed, broccoli is a great source of vitamin C, which research says helps support immune health and promotes collagen production for better skin health. Mohr tells us, “Broccoli contains compounds like sulforaphane, which may have anti-cancer properties, making it a great addition to any healthy diet.”
Broccoli can be steamed, roasted, or added to soups and salads for a fiber-boosting meal.
Carrots
Nutrition (per 7″ carrot):
Calories: 30
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 60 mg
Carbs: 7 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 5 g)
Protein: 1 g
Carrots are an excellent source of soluble and insoluble fiber, which makes them fantastic for supporting digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels. Mohr explains that carrots are also rich in beta-carotene, which converts into vitamin A in the body. According to the NIH, vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision and skin. “Carrots help with digestion and blood sugar stability, making them a great vegetable for those looking to improve their gut health and manage weight,” says Mohr.
Carrots are also versatile, whether eaten raw as a snack, roasted, or added to soups, stews, and salads.
Brussels Sprouts
Nutrition (per 2/3-cup):
Calories: 35
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 15 mg
Carbs: 7 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 2 g)
Protein: 3 g
Brussels sprouts, often called mini cabbages, are packed with fiber and antioxidants. One of their main compounds, kaempferol, has been shown to help reduce inflammation, which is crucial for overall health and disease prevention. “Brussels sprouts are an excellent source of vitamin K, which is crucial for bone health, heart health, and proper blood clotting,” explains Mohr.
Brussels sprouts make for an excellent addition to meals, either roasted, steamed, or sautéed, helping to boost digestion and provide a healthy dose of fiber.
Spinach
Nutrition (per 2/3-cup):
Calories: 35
Fat: 0.5 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 341 mg
Carbs: 5 g (Fiber: 4 g, Sugar: 0 g)
Protein: 4 g
Spinach is touted for its iron content, but it also packs a fiber punch. Mohr explains that spinach provides magnesium, which supports muscle function and nerve health, in addition to lutein, an antioxidant that research says can support eye health. “Spinach is a great way to add fiber while also reaping the benefits of vitamins and minerals essential for overall well-being,” says Mohr.
To get more spinach in your life, add it to smoothies, salads, omelets, or sautée it as a side dish.
Artichokes
Nutrition (per 60 g serving):
Calories: 45
Fat: 4 g (Saturated Fat: 1 g)
Sodium: 180 mg
Carbs: 2 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 1 g)
Protein: 1 g
Mohr explains, “Artichokes are rich in antioxidants and prebiotics, which feed healthy gut bacteria and promote digestion.” Additionally, a 2023 study in Antioxidants found that artichokes can support liver health since they contain compounds like cynarin that help detoxify your body. Artichokes can be enjoyed steamed, roasted, or added to salads or blended into sauces.
Cauliflower
Nutrition (per 3/4-cup serving):
Calories: 15
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 15 mg
Carbs: 3 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 1 g)
Protein: 1 g
Cauliflower is a low-calorie vegetable that offers about 3 grams of fiber per cup. “Cauliflower is rich in glucosinolates, which may help detoxify the body and protect against cancer,” says Mohr. “It also contains choline, a nutrient that supports brain function.”
Cauliflower is highly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from roasted florets to mashed cauliflower as a substitute for higher-carb mashed potatoes.
Sweet Potatoes
Nutrition (per 100 g serving):
Calories: 80
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 18 mg
Carbs: 19 g (Fiber: 2 g, Sugar: 11 g)
Protein: 1 g
These root vegetables are an excellent source of fiber, with around 4 grams of fiber in a medium-sized sweet potato. Sweet potatoes are also a rich source of beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A that offers a host of benefits as noted above. Mohr says, “Sweet potatoes are packed with potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure, making them a great choice for heart health.” The versatility of sweet potatoes allows them to be baked, mashed, or added to stews.
Beets
Nutrition (per 1/2-cup serving):
Calories: 40
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 250 mg
Carbs: 19 g (Fiber: 1 g, Sugar: 6 g)
Protein: 1 g
Beets are high in nitrates, naturally occurring compounds made up of nitrogen and oxygen that studies show can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure. “Beets contain betalains, pigments with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that support overall health,” Mohr explains.
Beets can be roasted, pickled, or added to salads, offering a nutritious and fiber-packed option for boosting cardiovascular and digestive health.
Kale
Nutrition (per 100 g serving):
Calories: 49
Fat: 1 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 38 mg
Carbs: 9 g (Fiber: 4 g, Sugar: 2 g)
Protein: 4 g
“Kale is filled with vitamins A, C, and K, which support immunity, skin health, and bone health,” says Mohr. “Additionally, it contains powerful antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol, which help reduce inflammation in the body.” Whether used in salads, smoothies, or baked into crispy kale chips, kale is a fiber-packed way to support your immune system and overall health.
Eggplant
Nutrition (per 100 g serving):
Calories: 45
Fat: 0 g (Saturated Fat: 0 g)
Sodium: 1 mg
Carbs: 11 g (Fiber: 3 g, Sugar: 4 g)
Protein: 1 g
Eggplant is rich in antioxidants like nasunin, which research says can help protect brain cells, support healthy aging, and combat oxidative stress. Mohr explains, “Eggplant is also high in manganese, a mineral important for bone health, and its high water content aids hydration and satiety.” Eggplant has a unique texture, allowing it to be grilled, roasted, or used in stews and curries.
