Spinach
Spinach! This lovely, leafy green is not only flavorful, it is a nutritional power house. Fresh spinach is an excellent source of vitamin A, which works in the body to promote healthy skin and vision, and folate, which promotes healthy cells. This tasty vegetable is also a good source of vitamin C, potassium and iron. Enjoy it steamed or stir-fried, or make a fresh, crunchy spinach salad.
Spinach! Eat more of this super green to help reduce your risk of age-related macular degeneration, cancer, heart disease and neural tube defects.
Age-related macular Degeneration is the leading cause of blindness in people 65 years and older. Lutein and zeaxantin are two carotenoids supplied by spinach that may reduce the risk of this type of macular degeneration and help keep your eyes healthy.
Other sources of lutein and zeaxantin are collards, mustard greens, red chili peppers and sweet red peppers.
Carotenoids and the antioxidant vitamins C and E in spinach are also believed to reduce the risk of cancer, heart disease, stroke and cataracts. And the healthy dose of potassium and calcium found in spinach can help regulate your blood pressure.
The benefits of spinach don't stop there! Spinach and other leafy greens also provide folic acid, which is known to reduce the risk of neural tube defect and heart disease. Some studies have shown that the compounds in spinach may even improve your memory!
Nutrition Tip: Toss spinach, romaine lettuce and red peppers into your next salad for a nutritional boost!
Notable Nutrients in 1/2-cup Boiled Spinach
- Calories: 21
- Vitamin A: 89,433 IU (189% DV)
- Folate: 132 micrograms (33% DV)*
- Vitamin C: 9 milligrams (15% DV)
- Vitamin K: 444 micrograms (555% DV)
- Copper: 0.31 milligrams (16% DV)*
- Iron: 3.2 milligrams (18% DV)*
- Magnesium: 79 milligrams (20% DV)*
- Potassium: 429 milligrams (12% DV)
- Fiber: 4.3 grams (17% DV)
- Beta Carotene: 5,659 micrograms
See also:
Spinach and Sprout Food Facts
Belly Byte on Dr. Praeger's Bombay Spinach Pancakes
Belly Bytes on Ready Fixin's Prewashed Spinach
Belly Buster on Spinach Powder Crisps
Quick Cooking Tip: Washing Spinach Greens
