Why Women Should Make Everyday National Spinach Day
It is National Spinach Day, and there are numerous reasons to celebrate the superfood that can make you feel like a Superwoman.
Energy Use
Low iron can equal low energy for your body because iron enhances the way your body uses energy. Spinach is an excellent source of iron.
Metabolism and System Function
Spinach is an excellent source for dietary magnesium. What does magnesium do for you, you ask. Magnesium is required for energy metabolism. Your body also uses it to maintain your immune system, blood pressure, heart rhythm, nerves and muscles.
Building Strong Bodies
Popeye was strong to the finish because of his spinach. Spinach packs more potassium that a banana with 839mg per cup compared with the banana’s 539mg. Suprisingly, spinach is also an excellent source of protein, deriving the bulk of its calories from protein.
Anti-Inflammatory & Anti-Cancer
The flavonoids in spinach belong to a class of phytonutrients known for their anti-cancer and anti-inflammation properties. Spinach contains abundant anti-oridants as well: vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin C, manganese, selenium and zinc. Anti-oxidants can decrease your risk of blood vessel related issues such as high blood pressure or athersclerosis.
Gastrointestinal Wellness
Aside from the benefits of a little extra fiber in your diet to keep things moving appropriately, spinach’s vitamin C and beta-carotene play a role in guarding the colon from the negative impact of free radicals in the body.
Vision
Guard your eyes against age related vision issues and deterioration such as macular degeneration with the zeaxanthin and lutein found in spinach.
Brain Food
High quantities of vitamin K found in spinach protects the central nervous system through the creation of the protective coating around nerves. Some studies have suggested a link between a life-long accumulation of free radicals in the body with Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease. It is possible the antioxidants in spinach will help eliminate those free radicals and promote healthier brain function.
Ways to Increase your Spinach Intake:
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- Add spinach to your scrambled eggs or omelet in the morning
- Layer it in your lasagna or other casseroles
- Make a spinach salad for lunch
- Add spinach to your favorite salad anytime
- Snack on spinach dip made with spinach, Greek yogurt and herbs
- Next time you order that quick pizza for dinner, add spinach to your pie
- Try a delicious green smoothie made with spinach. Spinach, as prepared in a smoothie, makes the nutrients exceptionally bioavailable. Try this easy smoothie:
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SharpHeels Simple Spinach Smoothie
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- 2 handfuls washed (preferably organic) spinach
- ¾-cup water, almond milk, or coconut milk
- ½-cup of your favorite frozen fruit such as berries, peaches, pineapple, mango
- 1 banana
- 1 apple
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Blend liquid and spinach first in blender until spinach turns to green “juice” consistency. Add fruits and blend until thickened. Adding frozen fruit eliminates the need to add additional ice.
Enjoy fresh, or refrigerate for later in your crazy-busy day.
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