Spinach is a green, leafy vegetable that is cheap and
affordable for everyone. It is a rich source of minerals, vitamins, pigments
and phytonutrients. All of these together make spinach very beneficial for a
number of vital processes.
Diabetes
Spinach contains an antioxidant known as alpha-lipoic acid,
which has been shown to lower glucose levels, increase insulin sensitivity and
prevent oxidative stress-induced changes in patients with diabetes. Studies on
alpha-lipoic acid have also shown decreases in peripheral neuropathy and/or
autonomic neuropathy in diabetics.
Cancer prevention
Spinach and other green vegetables contain chlorophyll which
has shown to be effective at blocking the carcinogenic effects of heterocyclic
amines which are generated when grilling foods at a high temperature.
Asthma prevention
The risks for developing asthma are lower in people who
consume a high amount of certain nutrients. One of these nutrients is beta-carotene,
of which spinach is an excellent source.
Lowering blood pressure
Because of its high potassium content, spinach is
recommended to those with high blood pressure to negate the effects of sodium
in the body. A low potassium intake may be just as big of a risk factor in
developing high blood pressure as a high sodium intake.
Bone health
Low intakes of vitamin K have been associated with a higher
risk for bone fracture. Adequate vitamin K consumption is important for good
health, as it acts as a modifier of bone matrix proteins, improves calcium
absorption and may reduce urinary excretion of calcium.
Promotes regularity
Spinach is high in fiber and water content, both of which
help to prevent constipation and promote a healthy digestive tract.
Healthy skin and hair
Spinach is high in vitamin A, which is necessary for sebum
production to keep hair moisturized. Vitamin A is also necessary for the growth
of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair. Spinach and other leafy greens
high in vitamin C are imperative for the building and maintenance of collagen,
which provides structure to skin and hair.
Iron-deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, which can be
prevented by an adequate intake of iron-rich foods, like spinach.
Good Eyesight
Spinach is a rich source of beta carotene, lutein and
xanthene, all of which are beneficial for eyesight. Beta carotene is supplied
to the eyes by cooked spinach. It can prevent people from suffering from
vitamin A deficiency, itching eyes, eye ulcers and dry eyes. This is also due
to some of the anti-inflammatory properties of spinach, which can reduce the
puffiness or irritation in the eyes.
Anti-Ulcerative
It has been found that spinach and some other vegetables
have the ability to protect the mucous membrane of the stomach, thereby
decreasing the occurrence of gastric ulcers. Furthermore, the
glycocyclerolipids found in spinach can boost the strength of the digestive
tract lining, thereby preventing any unwanted inflammation in that part of the
body that can cause harm.
Fetal Development
Folate found in spinach is needed by a growing fetus for
proper development of its new nervous system. Defects like cleft palate or
spina bifida may occur due to a deficiency of folate. The vitamin A contained
in spinach is advised to be consumed in higher quantities by the mother.
Vitamin A is required in the lung development of the fetus as well, and can be
transferred during breast-feeding, so spinach consumption should be continued
after birth as well.
Skin Protection
Different phytonutrients and pigments have been shown to
protect the skin from the harmful rays of the sun, including UV rays. These not
only protect, but also repair the damaged genes to some extent, thereby
preventing skin cancer in the long run.
Reduced Risk of Cataracts
The lutein and zeaxanthin present in spinach both act as
strong antioxidants, thus preventing the eyes from the harsh effects of UV rays
that can lead to cataracts.
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