When we think about green vegetables.. first thing come in mind is Spinach. Regular consumption of spinach in the diet helps prevent osteoporosis (weakness of bones), iron-deficiency anemia. Moreover, its soft leaves are believed to protect the human body from cardiovascular diseases and cancers of colon and prostate.
Spinach is a green vegetable that can significantly reduce oxidative stress. Known as palak in India, it can also fight cancer growth, regulate blood pressure levels and maintain eye health too.
Benefits of adding Spinach (Palak) to your diet.Interestingly, in every 100 grams of the vegetable, one can find 91.4% water, 2.9% protein, 3.6% carbs and only 23 calories. Moreover, fresh spinach is a rich source of magnesium, iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K1, beta-carotene, folic acid or Vitamin B6, and calcium. In addition to that, it contains several other vitamins and minerals like potassium, Vitamin B9, and Vitamin E. It is also a good source of significant plant compounds. The antioxidants present in the leaves of this vegetable helps to fight free radicals in one’s body. Eventually, this prevents chronic disease and premature aging. Being an insoluble fiber, it also aids digestion.
Benefits of Raw spinachRaw spinach has many essential nutrients that are present in higher portions when compared to the cooked version. On consuming it raw, one can get more folate, riboflavin, niacin, Vitamin C, and potassium. If you’re aiming to specifically obtain these nutrients, then you can consume this vegetable in its raw form to some extent. However, one must consume it in moderate amounts.
Benefits of cooked spinachThe cooked version of these vegetables is definitely better as oxalic acid evaporates on heating. Moreover, one can absorb higher levels of protein, zinc, thiamin, iron, Vitamins A and E, calcium, beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin on eating cooked spinach.