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5 reasons why you should eat raw spinach are announced
Like many other vegetables, spinach contains beneficial vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals. Its nutritional value varies depending on whether it is raw or cooked.
Researchers at Linköping University in Sweden have shown that lutein (a pigment it contains) is particularly beneficial for the cardiovascular system, as it helps keep arteries in good condition. However, it breaks down when heated, so it is recommended to eat spinach raw, according to mejorconsalud.com.
This will allow you to get more nutrients and provide the body with a high amount of vitamin C. Such spinach also contains fewer calories and better retains folate, which is largely lost during cooking.
Spinach characteristics
- Consists mainly of water.
- Contains very few carbohydrates, but a high amount of protein.
- It is rich in vitamins and minerals, but at the same time is a very good source of omega-3 fatty acids.
- Contains minerals: calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, and phosphorus.
- It contains vitamins A, C, E, K, and B vitamins (including folic acid).
Benefits of eating spinach
Protects the brain
Various components of spinach, such as potassium, folate, and antioxidants, provide neurological benefits to people who consume it regularly. According to research, folate reduces the onset of Alzheimer's disease, making it a very good option for people at high risk of neural or cognitive impairment.
Regulates blood pressure
Spinach is high in potassium but low in sodium. This mineral composition is beneficial for patients with high blood pressure, as potassium helps regulate blood pressure and sodium increases it.
Helps fight some types of cancer
It consists of several important elements that have shown promise in the treatment and prevention of various types of cancer. Spinach components such as folate, tocopherol, and chlorophyllin work through different mechanisms that are beneficial against this disease.
Strengthens bones
Spinach is a good source of vitamin K, which retains calcium in the bone matrix, leading to bone mineralization. In addition, other minerals such as manganese, copper, magnesium, zinc, and phosphorus also help keep bones strong. This, in turn, can prevent the development of osteoporosis.
Strengthens muscles
The antioxidant component of spinach, CoQ10, plays an important role in strengthening muscles, especially the heart, which continuously pumps blood to all parts of the body.
Warnings
People who are prone to oxalate formation, or suffer from arthritis, gout, osteoarthritis, and renal colic, should avoid spinach.