1. Spinach
This leafy green tops the chart as one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables.
Spinach also boasts antioxidants, which may help reduce your risk of disease. One study found that dark leafy greens like spinach are high in beta carotene and lutein, two antioxidants that are associated with a decreased risk of cancer.
2. Carrots
They also contain beta carotene, an antioxidant that provides their vibrant orange color and may help prevent cancer. Your body converts this compound into vitamin A (5Trusted Source).
In fact, one study in more than 57,000 people associated eating at least 2–4 carrots per week with a 17% lower risk of colorectal cancer in the long run (6Trusted Source).
3. Broccoli
Broccoli is rich in a sulfur-containing plant compound called glucosinolate, as well as its byproduct sulforaphane (8). Researchers in animal and test-tube studies have extensively explored sulforaphane’s ability to protect against cancer (9Trusted Source). This cruciferous veggie may help prevent other types of chronic disease as well.