Absent from most American kitchens, this cruciferous vegetable is a major player in European and Asian diets.

Why it's healthy: One cup of chopped cabbage has just 22 calories, and it's loaded with valuable nutrients. At the top of the list is sulforaphane, a chemical that increases your body's production of enzymes that disarm cell damaging free radicals and reduce your risk of cancer. In fact, Stanford University scientists determined that sulforaphane boosts your level of these cancer fighting enzymes higher than any other plant chemical.

How to eat it: Put cabbage on burgers to add a satisfying crunch. Or, for an even better sandwich topping or side salad, try an Asian slaw.


Gene C.