Seasonal Pick: Spinach

Spinach has the reputation for being the vegetable all children hate and all parents force those children to eat before they get dessert. As a vegetable loved for its hearty goodness since its origin in 7th century Asia, parents had it right! It has slowly moved it’s way west, receiving praise and namesakes along the way until it arrived in America in the 1800s. It took a bit for the vegetable to gain a favorable audience here, but eventually it’s impressive contents, versatility, and of course Popeye’s help, it gained its current status as a power green!

Spinach boasts an impressive number of health benefits! It contains many phytochemicals that have anti-inflammatory properties, fight cancer and are crucial for optimal eye health. It contains a significant amount of protein for a vegetable which supports growth, healthy wound healing and promotes a healthy metabolism. This green also protects against ulcers, supports fetal development, and protects against harmful solar rays. And believe it or not, it does, in fact, make muscles stronger, especially the heart muscle!

Vitamins & Minerals:

• Zinc – regulates cell production, increases rate of healing, supports digestive and immune systems, cures skin blemishes, promotes cognitive health
• Iron – helps produce red blood cells which deliver oxygen into the body’s organs, ensures proper growth, promotes robust health
• Potassium – promotes healthy, bones, immunity, nerve/muscle function, metabolism, increases blood flow to the brain (improved concentration, cognition, and neural activity)
• Vitamin K – essential in responding to injuries, helps maintain regular blood clotting, and supports absorption of calcium (healthy bones), protects against internal bleeding
• Vitamin A – builds body’s immunity, keeps skin and eyes moist, supports overall eye and vision health, strengthens bones and teeth, promotes soft, healthy skin.

Splendid Spinach

1. Eating spinach raw provides the maximum amount of vitamins, nutrients, and phytonutrients and there are many ways to enjoy it raw!
2. It’s a great addition to add to smoothies–adds all the benefits of spinach while it’s sneakily masked by sweet fruits and or creamy liquids.
3. Spinach is a great base for any salad, just add your favorite salad toppings and you have a tasty HEALTHY meal!
4. Spinach can also be substituted for less nutrient-rich greens. Try spinach on your next burger or sandwich instead of iceberg!

Some of our favorite spinach recipes from around the web:

• Spinach Artichoke Enchiladas
• Raw Spinach Dip
• Spinach Salad with Quinoa, Crispy Chickpeas, Tomatoes, and Avocado Basil Dressing

Spinach makes you strong, just look at Popeye!

via GIPHY