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Eating vegetables is widely considered healthy, but not all vegetables are safe to consume raw. Some may contain bacteria, parasites, or insect larvae that can lead to stomach problems or even more serious health issues if ingested. Knowing which vegetables require proper cooking or preparation can protect your digestive system and overall health.
1. Spinach and Leafy Greens
Spinach and other leafy greens, like kale or Swiss chard, are nutritious, but when eaten raw, they can sometimes harbor tiny worms, parasite eggs, or bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.
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Why it happens: Leafy greens grow close to the soil, where insects and parasites are common.