The Superfood: Spinach

Whenever I think of Spinach, I think of the fictional cartoon character Popeye the Sailor. Everytime Popeye would pop open the can of spinach and eat it, his muscles would bulge out and his super strength would kick in.

In fact sales of Spinach increased by 33% in the US between 1931 and 1936 due to Popeye's popularity.

But is Spinach really a superfood? Here's why I give it the thumbs up & regularly eat it at most meal times:

Benefits of Spinach

1. Nutrient dense-food ~ It is probably the most nutrient dense-food in existance. Spinach is low in calories but high in vitamins and minerals. It's an excellent source of Vitamins K, A, C, B2, B6, Magnesium, Iron, Calcium, Potassium and Folate.

2. Readily available anywhere in the world You won't have to look high and low for it as it can be found in most supermarkets and Farmer's markets.

3.Versatile It can be eaten raw as a Salad, or as part of a healthy smoothie or cooked in omelettes, soups and other warm dishes.

4. High in antioxidants Antioxidants protect the body from free radicals. Free radicals make it difficult to fight off infections, damage DNA leading to cancer, lowers defense against heart disease and accelerates the aging process.

5. Healthy Heart Vitamins C & A help reduce the damaging effects of free radicals already in the body. The antioxidants keep cholesterol from oxidizing and help to combat the onset of Osteoporosis and Antherosclerosis. The Folate helps to ensure a healthy cardiovascular system and Magnesium helps to lower blood pressure.

6. Spinach has anti-inflammatory properties Neoxanthin and Violanxanthin are two anti-inflammatory properties that play an important role in the regulation of inflammation and are present in unusual amounts in Spinach.

7. Supports brain function It has been shown to slow age related decline in brain function.

8. Healthy Eyes Lutein is present in Spianch amd helps protect against eye disease.

9. Healthy Skin High amounts of Vitamin A is in Spinach. It promotes healthy skin by allowing proper moisture retention in the epidermis. Thus helping to combat Psoriasis, Acne and wrinkles.

10. Helps to maintain healthy bones 1 Cup of Spinach ( or 1/6 Cup of cooked Spinach) contains twice the daily Vitamin K needs. Vitamin K,along with Magnesium and calcium, is essential to maintaing healthy bones.

A few key things to note before buying Spinach

1. It is one food that is high in pesticides. When buying Spinach, it is always good to buy organic.

2. Buy the greenest Spinach you can find as this will be the one with the most Vitmain C

3. Gout sufferers may be affected by the Purine in Spinach.

4. Those with Kidney problems should consult their doctor as Spinach has high levels of Oxalic Acid that is associated with Kidney problems.

Here are some ways in which I've included Spinach into my meals

1.With burgers and wraps

2. In yummy omelettes

3. Served with Coconut Chicken Curry

4. With Salad

5. And, healthy smoothies. This one is made of Avocado, Spinach, Almond milk and organic honey.

Stay tuned for more superfood posts!

~Fit mom