non-starchy
Low in carbohydrates
Non-starchy describes foods, especially vegetables, that contain little starch—the complex carbohydrate found abundantly in potatoes, rice, and grains.
Leafy greens, broccoli, peppers, and tomatoes are non-starchy.
The distinction matters in dietary planning, where non-starchy vegetables are often encouraged for their lower carbohydrate content: Fill half your plate with non-starchy vegetables.
Elongated green summer squash
- bell pepperMild, hollow pod vegetable
- cucumberCrisp edible gourd
- spinachEdible dark green leaves
- kaleLoose-leafed cabbage relative
asparagus · broccoli · cauliflower · mushrooms · eggplant · green beans · lettuce · arugula
Minimal starch intake
- ketoHigh-fat, low-carb regimen
- paleoAncestral-foods diet
- diabetic-friendlySuitable for those monitoring glucose
- glycemic indexCarbohydrate blood sugar rating
blood sugar · insulin response · weight management · satiety · meal planning
Plant-based digestive aid
- antioxidantsSubstances counteracting oxidative damage
- vitaminsEssential organic nutrients
- mineralsInorganic natural solids
- phytonutrientsBioactive plant-derived compounds
low-glycemic · nutrient-dense · polyphenols · flavonoids · cruciferous · leafy · chlorophyll · beta-carotene
zucchini
Elongated green summer squash
- bell pepperMild, hollow pod vegetable
- cucumberCrisp edible gourd
- spinachEdible dark green leaves
kale · asparagus · broccoli · cauliflower · mushrooms · eggplant · green beans · lettuce · arugula · radishes
low-carb
Minimal starch intake
- ketoHigh-fat, low-carb regimen
- paleoAncestral-foods diet
- diabetic-friendlySuitable for those monitoring glucose
glycemic index · blood sugar · insulin response · weight management · satiety · meal planning
fiber
Plant-based digestive aid
- antioxidantsSubstances counteracting oxidative damage
- vitaminsEssential organic nutrients
- mineralsInorganic natural solids
phytonutrients · low-glycemic · nutrient-dense · polyphenols · flavonoids · cruciferous · leafy · chlorophyll · beta-carotene · folate