Your main concern with this vegetable might be how to make it seem appetizing. One of the interesting things about spinach (besides its superfood powers) is that it wilts when heated. It’ll shrink in size and seem much less intimidating. In addition to the 5 main health benefits below, it can also improve digestion, healing and eye health.

1. Heart

Lutein, which is a pigment in spinach, reduces the risk of atherosclerosis and, as a result, can help decrease the chance of heart attack and stroke. Lutein works to reduce fat deposits in the body’s blood vessels.

2. Bones

This high concentration of vitamin K can help you maintain bone density and prevent bone fractures. Other minerals found in spinach also help build strong bones, teeth and nails.

3. Pregnancy

The folate found in spinach helps the fetus develop properly. Studies show that birth defects, such as cleft palate or spina bifida, may be due to a folate deficiency. The high amount of Vitamin A contained in spinach also helps aid the unborn baby’s lung development.

4. The Brain

The potassium, folate and other antioxidants found in spinach also may provide neurological benefits. Folate consumption may be linked with Alzheimer’s disease prevention. Potassium helps increase blood flow to the brain, which may improve cognition and concentration.

5. Muscles

An antioxidant found in spinach, called C0-Q10, helps strengthen muscles, especially heart muscles. C0-Q10 may help treat cardiovascular diseases and coronary heart disease.

One potential drawback of consuming a lot of spinach is its oxalic acid content. Oxalic acid blocks the body’s absorption of calcium and iron, and some people who eat large quantities of raw spinach may experience symptoms of gout, arthritis and rheumatism.

One way around the potential problem with oxalic acid is to pair spinach with a food that is high in Vitamin C, such as oranges.

Add this powerful superfood into your family’s meals:

• Add spinach to your favorite soup or stew.
• Toss a handful of spinach into a fruit smoothie before blending.
• Chop and stir spinach into your pasta sauce.
• Top lasagna or your macaroni and cheese with finely chopped spinach.
• Place a leaf or two of spinach on your sandwich instead of lettuce.
• Make a quesadilla with spinach and cheese.
• Use spinach as a pizza topping.
• Add it to your omelet or scrambled eggs.

Do you have enough spinach in your diet? How do you incorporate it into your meals?

Article Source: Off The Grid News