About Spinach
Spinach is a green leafy vegetable in the same family as beets. It is commonly known for its rich iron content, it also has high levels of vitamins A, B9, K, C, and antioxidants, has protective effects from diseases.
With 23 calories per 100 grams, spinach itself is one of the lower-calorie vegetables.
While most of its energy supply is provided by its carbohydrate content, it also has a relatively large amount of protein for a fresh vegetable. Fats, however, are present only in trace amounts.
Rich in provitamin A, vitamin B9 and vitamin K, spinach also provides good amounts of vitamins C, B6, and some vitamin E.
It is a good source of minerals and trace elements: It contains a lot of iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, copper, zinc, iodine and selenium…
Spinach leaves contain high amounts of antioxidants: They offer high levels of lutein and zeaxanthin, two non-vitamin A carotenoids factors, and the ferulic acid.
The National Health and Nutrition Program recommends eating at least five daily servings (80g minimum) of fruit or vegetables and make the most of the seasonal variety. Two or three heaped tablespoons (or two or three handfuls) is one serving of vegetables.
In general, vitamins, fibers and antioxidant compounds found in fruits and vegetables play a significant protective role in health. Numerous studies have shown that high consumption of fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and other chronic diseases.
Regular consumption of spinach is particularly associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancers or esophagus.
Foods rich in lutein and zeaxanthin (spinach, brussels sprouts, broccoli) would also help to reduce the risk of macular degeneration.
High vitamin K content in spinach is necessary for blood clotting. However, some anticoagulants require vitamin K intake to be relatively stable from one day to another. It is, therefore, advisable for people taking this type of treatment to seek advice from their doctors before consuming this vegetable.
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