Spinach is well known for its nutrition with remarkable properties to increase vitality and improve the quality of the blood as it is rich in iron inaddition Spinach is good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin C and folate , manganese, magnesium, iron and vitamin B2.
Iron plays a important role in transporting oxygen around the body, in energy production and DNA synthesis. Vitamin K is important for maintaining bone health.
The health benefits of spinach include managing diabetes, lowering the risk of cancer, preventing asthma, improving bone health and also healthy skin and hair.
Spinach benefits for Skin and Hair
Ample quantities of vitamin A in Spinach optimize the production of oil in the skin pores to moisturize the skin and hair and also responsible for the growth of all bodily tissues, including skin and hair.
Vitamin C in Spinach crucial for the building and maintenance of collagen, which provides structure to skin and hair.
Iron deficiency is a common cause of hair loss, which may be prevented by an adequate intake of iron-rich foods, and Spinach has Iron in ample quantity.
In addition to Spinach, Raisins are also good for hairs and skin
A 100g raw serving of Spinach roughly contains:
Just 25 calories, 2.8g protein, negligible fat content 0.8g fat only, 1.6g carbohydrates and 2.8g fibre
Asthma prevention
As per one study on children with and without asthma, the risks for developing asthma are lower in people who have a high intake of certain nutrients such as beta-carotene which is available in plenty in Spinach.
The dark green colour of spinach contain high levels of chlorophyll and health promoting carotenoids (beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin). These phyto chemicals have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties and are especially important for healthy eye-sight, helping to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
Those who experience iron-deficiency anaemia are encouraged to include green leafy vegetables such as spinach.
Spinach used for cooking should be fresh and not decaying. At the most it can be kept in fridge to keep it longer for few days .Ideally not to wash spinach before storing, but must be washed properly before consumption specially in countries such as India where hygiene level is almost non existant as the leaves and stems may collect soil and chemicals.
Spinach is available in plenty in supermarket in the UK and by local vegetable vendors in India.
Caution: Since Spinach contains a high amount of oxalate, people with history of oxalate containing kidney stones may avoid over consumption.