What are the benefits of eating spinach regularly in the summer?
Malabar spinach is one of the vegetables that frequently appears in family meals, providing nutritional value and health benefits.
Nutritional components of Malabar spinach
Malabar spinach is an annual climbing plant with succulent stems, smooth and glossy outer bark, green or purplish-green in color, and can grow up to 10m long.
According to the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture), spinach can provide essential nutrients such as: sodium, potassium, fiber, carbohydrates, protein, magnesium, calcium, iron, vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12.
Benefits of eating spinach
According toEveryday HealthMalabar spinach has a cooling effect, and regularly consuming this vegetable will provide the following benefits.
Preventing osteoporosis
Spinach contains calcium, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in human health, especially the musculoskeletal system. Regularly consuming this vegetable helps strengthen bones, teeth, and nails, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in the elderly.
Boosting immune function
Malabar spinach is rich in vitamin C, which helps the body fight off pathogens, strengthens the immune system, and supports the recovery and healing process of wounds. A strengthened immune system helps prevent the invasion of bacteria and viruses, preventing colds and protecting overall health.
Preventing atherosclerosis
The fiber in Malabar spinach helps reduce the absorption of bad cholesterol (LDL) from food, thereby preventing atherosclerosis and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease. Malabar spinach is also rich in vitamin C, which has antioxidant properties and eliminates free radicals, helping to prevent and support the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.
Preventing aging
Spinach contains beta-carotene, an antioxidant that helps eliminate free radicals in the body and prevent aging. Additionally, beta-carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is good for eyesight and boosts immunity.
Who should limit their consumption of spinach?
Although spinach has many health benefits, you should limit or avoid its consumption if you have conditions such as kidney stones, diarrhea, cold stomach and loose stools, stomach pain, a cold constitution, gout, or high blood uric acid levels.
Additionally, you should combine Malabar spinach with animal-based foods to reduce its cooling properties. When cooking this vegetable, avoid overcooking it to prevent the loss of beneficial nutrients.
