When it comes to eating healthy, most people think that raw veggies are better than the cooked ones. However, this is not always the case. In fact, cooked veggies can be just as nutritious, if not more so, than raw veggies. Here’s why.

Cooking Makes Nutrients More Bioavailable

When vegetables are cooked, their cell walls break down, making it easier for your body to absorb the nutrients. For example, when you cook carrots, you increase the amount of beta-carotene and other carotenoids that your body can absorb.

Similarly, cooking spinach makes it easier for your body to absorb calcium, iron, and other nutrients.

Cooking Can Make Veggies More Digestible

Some vegetables, such as broccoli, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts, are difficult to digest when raw. This is because they contain complex sugars and fiber that can be hard on your digestive system.

However, when you cook these vegetables, the heat breaks down the complex sugars and fiber, making them easier to digest.

Cooking Can Improve Flavor

Let’s face it, some raw vegetables just don’t taste that good. However, when you cook them, you can add seasoning and spices, making them much more flavorful.

For example, roasted beets with a little bit of balsamic vinegar and rosemary is a delicious and healthy side dish.

Cooking Can Reduce Toxins

Some vegetables, such as spinach, contain small amounts of oxalic acid, which can interfere with the absorption of calcium and other minerals.

However, when you cook spinach, the heat breaks down the oxalic acid, making it easier for your body to absorb the nutrients.

Cooking Can Kill Bacteria

Raw vegetables can sometimes harbor harmful bacteria, such as E. coli and Salmonella. However, when you cook vegetables, the heat kills the bacteria, making them safe to eat.

This is especially important if you have a weakened immune system or if you are pregnant.

Raw Veggies Can Be Hard on Your Digestive System

While raw veggies can be healthy, they can also be tough on your digestive system. This is because raw veggies contain a lot of fiber, which can be difficult for some people to digest.

If you have digestive issues, such as bloating or gas, you may find that cooked veggies are easier on your stomach.

Cooked Veggies Are More Versatile

When you cook veggies, you can prepare them in a variety of ways, such as roasted, grilled, sautéed, or steamed. This makes it easier to incorporate them into your diet, and it also makes meal preparation more interesting and fun.

Cooking Can Help You Eat More Veggies

Let’s face it, most people don’t eat enough vegetables. However, when you cook veggies and make them taste good, you are more likely to eat them on a regular basis.

This can help you meet your daily vegetable intake goals and improve your overall health.

Cooked Veggies Are Just as Nutritious as Raw Veggies

Contrary to popular belief, cooked veggies are just as nutritious, if not more so, than raw veggies. In fact, cooking can improve the bioavailability of nutrients and make them easier to digest.

So, the next time you are debating whether to eat your veggies raw or cooked, remember that both are healthy options.

Conclusion

Cooked veggies are a healthy and delicious way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. Not only do they taste great, but they are also easy to digest and can be prepared in a variety of ways.

So, the next time you are planning your meals, don’t be afraid to cook your veggies.