The benefits of spinach! Do you eat enough of it?
So since I started growing my garden back a couple months ago I have been doing a lot of research on what I am actually growing and the benefits of what I am eating! This first segment (hopefully I will be inspired to write more) is all about spinach! Something every kid is sure to hate but something every kid, adult, senior citizen should eat ... more than you think!
If you hate reading, then here's a quick list of spinach benefits.
The benefits of spinach are pretty amazing. Of course every article reference's Popeye - however it is considered a "super food" because it packs so many vitamins and minerals that are needed for a good number of health benefits.
Spinach is most readily available in the spring and the fall. Spinach plants love cool weather and they thrive in your garden ready to be picked a couple times a week. There are 3 basic kinds of spinach, savoy, flat or smooth-leaf, and semi-savoy. If you do grow spinach savoy has crinkly leaves and is harder to clean but great for salads. However to get the most nutrients out of your spinach it needs to be cooked. This will help release the nutrients so they are easier for your body to absorb. You can boil, steam, sauté, and even microwave!
Spinach Recipes
Chicken Breasts Stuffed with Cheese and Spinach
Oriental Orange Spinach
Spinach Artichoke Dip Recipe
Spinach and Smoked Salmon Fettucine
Health Benefits!
1. Combats prostate cancer
2. Cardiovascular Protection
3. Helps your brain with learning capacity and motor skills
4. Better eyesight
5. Lots of Iron for energy
6. Maintains bone health
7. Prevents neural-tube defects in the fetus
Labels: health benefits, recipes, spinach
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We've been growing spinach in our garden for the last couple of years and really enjoy it.
We normally harvest 10 - 12 lbs. a year from our small beds.
Easy to grow, prolific and good for you. Other than the asparagus, it's my favourite veggie in our garden.