The Health Benefits of Spinach
The Green Leafy commonly known as Palak
- This is a very nutrient-dense food. It’s low in calories yet very high in vitamins , minerals and other phytonutrients. When you consume this healthy food , you don’t need to worry about your weight-loss diet as you take in abundant , good-for-you nutrients. This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin K , vitamin A , magnesium , folate , manganese , iron , calcium , vitamin C , vitamin B2 , potassium , and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein , phosphorus , vitamin E , zinc , dietary fiber , and copper. Plus , it’s a good source of selenium , niacin , and omega-3 fatty acids.(Read about Omega 3 Fatty Acids)
- One of the benefits of spinach is that this green is readily available , nearly all over the world. Even though , with its abundant nutrient profile , it sounds like an amazing super food , it’s still easy to find in the market or easy to grow. In addition , it’s affordable.
- This is a versatile food. It can be eaten raw in a salad (and is much more nutritious than iceberg lettuce) or a green smoothie. Or it can be cooked (lightly , please) and eaten as a dish on its own or added to soups and other dishes. If boiling , use the least amount of water possible for the shortest time.
- Spinach is loaded with flavonoids which act as antioxidants , protecting the body from free radicals. Researchers have discovered at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as anti-cancer substances. The various nutrients offer much in the way of disease protection.
- Remember Popeye? He squeezed those cans of spinach into his mouth and instantly developed muscles and super strength. Well , he also may have been protecting himself against various illnesses and conditions.
- Another of the benefits of spinach is that this is a heart-healthy food. It’s an outstanding source of vitamins C and A which are antioxidants that help reduce free radical amounts in the body. The antioxidants work to keep cholesterol from oxidizing. In addition , folate is good for a healthy cardiovascular system , as well as magnesium , a mineral that helps to lower high blood pressure.
- Gastrointestinal health can be guarded by eating more of this food. The beta-carotene and vitamin C work to protect the cells of the body’s colon from the harmful effects of free radicals. Also , DNA damage and mutations in colon cells may be prevented by the folate that’s present in this green leafy vegetable.
- Some conditions that are identified as inflammatory , such as arthritis , osteoporosis , migraine headaches , and asthma , may be helped because of the anti-inflammatory properties of some of the nutrients found in spinach.
- Studies have shown that consumption of green leafy vegetables such as spinach may slow the age-related decline in brain function. So , eat your greens and keep working those crossword puzzles to keep your brain young and agile.
- Have you heard of lutein? It’s a carotenoid found in spinach that is protective against eye diseases such as age-related cataracts and macular degeneration. There is some indication that it might be absorbed better if you eat it with a little fat , such as a small amount of olive oil , or the food that you’re eating it with may contain some fat.
- The mineral iron is particularly important for menstruating women and growing children and adolescents. In comparison to red meat , spinach provides a lot less calories , is fat and cholesterol free , and an excellent source of iron. Because iron is a component of hemoglobin , which carries oxygen to all body cells , it’s needed for good energy.
Source : http://www.freepctools.com/spinach.htm
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