Spinach is bursting with a variety of nutrients which all contribute to its many health benefits. Spinach offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer protection in addition to its cardio-vascular, bone and eye protective properties.
The key antioxidants in spinach (vitamin A, C, E and minerals zinc and selenium), can help to reduce excessive inflammation in the body. This can help to reduce the risk of many health conditions including cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Recent research has unveiled a new phytonutrient in spinach which is believed to give anti-inflammatory protection to the lining of the digestive tract. Thus possibly helping to alleviate conditions such as IBS, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
Spinach is particularly high in carotenoids which have been shown to have protective properties against progressive prostate cancer. These nutrients are also thought to play a role in preventing eye related problems.
The high vitamin K, calcium and magnesium content of spinach are great for bone health and can therefore help to protect against conditions including osteoporosis.
To cook, lightly steam or boil for 1 minute, add to soups, omelettes, and toss in at the end of a stir fry. Alternatively, try adding spinach to a spicy dhal, superfood salad, or layer up in a veggie lasagne.
My weekly ‘Nutritional Nugget’ written for Fields to Fork Organics
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