Health Benefits of Spinach

 
Spinach (Basella alba) is a perennial twining, sprawling vine found in the tropics where it is widely used as a leaf vegetable. It has high levels of vitamins (A, B, C, E), calcium, magnesium, phosphorous, manganese, zinc, and decent amounts of iron and copper. It has good levels of mucilage which is a valuable aid in detoxifying the body.

• The abundance of vitamin K in spinach contributes greatly to a healthy nervous system and brain function by providing an essential part for the synthesis of sphingolipids, the crucial fat that makes up the Myelin sheath around our nerves.
• The high amount of vitamin A in spinach also promotes healthy hair, skin, and nails by allowing for proper moisture retention in the epidermis, thus fighting psoriasis, keratinization, acne and even wrinkles.
• One cup of boiled spinach provides RDA of vitamin K that can prevent excess activation of osteoclasts, and the protein that is essential for maintaining the strength and density of our bones.
• Strengthens hormone production.
• Eating one cup of spinach contributes to this process that fights atherosclerosis, improves heart functions and stroke.
• Improves mental and sexual capacities.
• Detoxifies the intestine.
• Flavonoids, a phytonutrient with anti-cancer properties abundant in spinach have been shown to slow down cell division in human stomach and skin cancer cells.
• Furthermore, spinach has shown significant protection against the occurrence of aggressive prostate cancer.