Spinach
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a green leafy vegetable with long stems. Depending on type, the leaves can be large and wrinkled or small and smooth (as with baby spinach).
Health benefits of Spinach
- Increased Protection from Bacterial and Viral Infections
- Increased Immune Function
- Reduced Cancer Risk
- Reduced Risk of Colon Cancer
- Protection Against Heart Disease
- Regulation of Blood Sugar and Insulin Dependence
- Slowing the progression of AIDS
- Slowing Aging
- DNA Repair and Protection
- Protection Against Dementia
- Alleviation of Cardiovascular Disease
- Alleviation of Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
- Promoted Eye Health
- Alzheimer's Protection
- Osteoporosis Protection
- Stroke Prevention
- Reduced Risk of Type II Diabetes
- Reduced Frequency of Migraine Headaches
- Alleviation of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Antioxidant Protection
- Prevention of Epileptic Seizures
- Alleviation of the Common Cold
- Prevention of Alopecia (Spot Baldness)
- Alleviation of Inflammation
Some of these health benefits come from nutrients concentrated in this food, and may not be effects of the food itself.
How to choose Spinach
Look for bright colored leaves that are crisp and springy, avoiding any leaves that look wilted or discolored.
Climate and origin
Spinach originated in Central/Southwest Asia and was first domesticated in Nepal. A hearty plant in cold climates, spinach is cultivated all over the temperate world.
Taste
Spinach has a slightly bitter, yet slightly sweet taste that is indicative of the beta carotene content.
Miscellaneous information
Spinach was the strength giving food to the cartoon character Popeye The Sailor Man.
Similar tasting produce
Collard Greens, Turnip Greens
Nutrition facts
| Nutrition Facts | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Serving Size | |||
| 100 grams (100g) | |||
| Calories | 23 | ||
| % Daily Value * | |||
| Total Fat 0.39g | 1% | ||
| Saturated Fat 0.06g | 0% | ||
| Trans Fat 0g | |||
| Cholesterol 0mg | 0% | ||
| Sodium 79mg | 3% | ||
| Total Carbohydrate 3.6g | 1% | ||
| Dietary Fiber 2.2g | 8% | ||
| Total Sugars 0.42g | 1% | ||
| Includes --g Added Sugars | --% | ||
| Protein 2.9g | 6% | ||
| Vitamin C 28.1mg | 31% | ||
| Vitamin D 0mcg | 0% | ||
| Iron 2.7mg | 15% | ||
| Calcium 99mg | 8% | ||
| Potassium 558mg | 12% | ||
| Phosphorus 49mg | 4% | ||
| *The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice. | |||