Eating your veggies is high up on the list of living a happy, healthy life. But many folks specifically reach for vegetables as a way to protect their heart: “Higher vegetable intakes are strongly and consistently linked to improved cardiovascular health and reduced risk of cardiovascular disease,” says registered dietitian Avery Zenker, RD, MAN. “Vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals, fiber, and thousands of bioactive phytochemicals that have increasing evidence for their role in supporting cardiovascular health.”

If you’re looking to load up on heart-healthy vegetables—and promoting your overall health as a result—look no further than this guide to the five healthiest vegetables for your heart.