The Health Benefits of Spinach

I try to eat a handful of baby spinach every day. I use spinach instead of, and sometimes with, lettuce in salads and on sandwiches. It's chalk full of magnesium, something our bodies desperately need and don't even know it. Add a handful of sliced almonds, lentils, or some avocado to your salad and you'll be eating a magnesium rich meal. I've read that spinach is likely to contain pesticides to it's best to eat organic spinach if you can.

Here are a few recipes you may enjoy.

Garlic Spinach from The Gracious Pantry

Italian Herb Baked Spinach Chips from The Nutribox

Spinach Muffins from Mama Say What?!

Blueberry Spinach Smoothie from Alaska From Scratch

In addition to magnesium, "this leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids."

"Spinach is loaded with flavonoids which act as antioxidants, protecting the body from free radicals. Researchers have discovered at least 13 different flavonoid compounds that act as anti-cancer substances. The various nutrients offer much in the way of disease protection."

For additional nutritional information, please visit Natural Healthy Eating.

Photo: Jason Bachman