Spinach is a leafy green vegetable rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It has low calorie content, making it an ideal choice for any diet.
Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, necessary for blood clotting, and also contains vitamins A, C, and B-complex.
Additionally, spinach is rich in iron, which plays a key role in the production of hemoglobin and myoglobin.
Magnesium, potassium, and manganese in spinach contribute to maintaining normal blood pressure and metabolism.
Spinach also contains powerful antioxidants such as lutein and zeaxanthin, which protect the eyes from age-related degeneration (reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration).
The high fiber content in spinach helps improve digestion and can help combat constipation, making it not only nutritious but also a functional food.
Nutritional Value
In 100 grams of fresh spinach, there are approximately 23 kilocalories, about 2.9 grams of protein, 0.4 grams of fat, and 3.6 grams of carbohydrates, of which 2.2 grams are dietary fiber.
Spinach has a very low glycemic index of less than 15, making it an excellent choice for maintaining stable blood sugar levels.
Possible Limitations
It is important to note that spinach is rich in oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones in individuals predisposed to this condition. Therefore, consumption of spinach should be limited if you are at risk of developing kidney stones.
Heat Treatment. Cooking spinach can reduce the level of oxalates, so it is recommended to blanch or steam it before consumption.
