Starchild: Why Malaysian kids love to eat vegetables

Asher Wang Qi Chuen, 5

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In a world full of tasty treats, there are some incredible superheroes that often go unnoticed. Who are they? They are mighty vegetables! These humble superstars may not wear capes, but they have amazing powers that keep us healthy and strong.

Vegetables are filled with all the nutrients that our bodies need to grow and stay in top shape. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that act like shields, prevent us from getting sick. Each vegetable has its unique set of powers.

Broccoli, with its tree-like appearance, is an energy booster. It provides us with the strength and energy to play, run, and have fun all day long. So, the next time you want to be a super-fast runner or a playground champion, make sure to have some delicious broccoli on your plate!

Did you know spinach is excellent at making our muscles big and strong? Let’s not forget carrots that contain a superhero nutrient called beta-carotene, which turns into vitamin A in our bodies. This special power helps our eyesight become as sharp.

Research indicates that vegetables play a crucial role in maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. They are rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, which are essential for the proper functioning of the human body. The World Health Organisation recommends consuming a variety of vegetables daily, as they offer numerous health benefits.

Here's what Starchild readers had to say on the topic, Vegetables.

Chuah Seng Koon, 7

Chuah Seng Koon, seven, says most children do not like vegetables because they think they aren't tasty. Some vegetables like okra and Malabar spinach are slimy. “However, vegetables are healthy as they are rich in vitamins and minerals. I like tomatoes, broccoli, carrots and enoki mushrooms. I like to mix mayonnaise sauce into tomatoes, cucumbers and lettuce to make them tasty. Most vegetables can be added into soups too. Some of the popular ones are ABC soup, which contain lots of veggie, tomato soup and French onion soup. Yummy.”

Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, 8

“I like sweet potatoes. They are delicious whether steamed, cooked in a sweet dessert or made into sweet potato balls and buns,” writes Bethany Wang Qi Syuen, eight.

Younger sibling Asher Wang Qi Chuen, five, enjoys eating crunch vegetables. “Corn, broccoli, cauliflower and garlic are among my favorites. I always ask my parents to cook them with lots of garlic and soy sauce, which is my favorite way of eating them.”

Low Ying Xi, 11

“Some children like vegetables but majority of kids dislike vegetables. Mummy says vegetables are good for health. She reminds me to eat vegetables because they contain lots of nutritious vitamins that make us healthier and stronger. Vegetables help to boost our immunity and prevent us from falling sick. This is important especially during the pandemic,” says Low Ying Xi, 11.

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