Celebrate National Eat Your Vegetables Day

Mark your calendars—June 17 is National Eat Your Vegetables Day!

It's the perfect excuse (not that you needed one) to pile your plate high with a rainbow of tasty, crunchy, nutritious vegetables.

Whether you're a veggie lover or someone still warming up to greens, there's never been a better time to celebrate the power of plants.

According to research shared by Purdue Extension, vegetables are essential to a healthy diet because they're packed with nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber. These aren't just fancy words—these nutrients help our bodies grow strong, support our immune systems and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes and certain types of cancer.

Vegetables also help maintain a healthy weight, improve digestion and boost energy levels throughout the day.

But here's where it gets really fun—color isn't just for looks; it's for your health.

Loading your plate with a variety of veggie colors doesn't just make your meal social media worthy—it's one of the easiest (and tastiest) ways to give your body the nutrients it needs

Each color packs its own powerful benefits, so the more colors you eat, the more your body gets to celebrate.

Green vegetables like broccoli, spinach and green beans are rich in vitamin K, folate and iron—great for bone health and blood function.

Orange and yellow veggies such as carrots, squash and bell peppers are loaded with beta-carotene, which supports healthy vision and skin.

Red vegetables like tomatoes and red peppers are packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to heart health and reduced inflammation.

Purple and blue veggies, including eggplant and purple cabbage, contain compounds that protect brain health and may slow cellular aging.

White and tan vegetables such as cauliflower, garlic, and onions can help regulate blood pressure, lower cholesterol and support a strong immune system.

Purdue Extension encourages families to "eat the rainbow" every day, and National Eat Your Vegetables Day is a great time to start. Get kids involved by letting them pick a new veggie to try, plant a mini garden or create a colorful veggie tray together.

Not a big fan of veggies yet? No problem. Try roasting them with a drizzle of olive oil, blending them into smoothies or dipping them in hummus. You might just find a new favorite!

So, this June 17 celebrate your health and taste buds with a vibrant veggie feast. Your body will thank you, and your plate will never look better!

Interested in bringing a program to your group or organization? Whether it's food, health, family, or finance—we've got you covered. Email me at lowder0@purdue.edu and let's plan something together.

For recipes, gardening tips and more veggie inspiration, visit extension.purdue.edu.