Spinach is a vibrant and healthy green leafy vegetable. Its scientific name is Spinacia oleracea. The family of spinach is Amaranthaceae which is consumed after proper cooking and is mostly fresh. Even if it is difficult to detect the different types of spinach so easily, there are numerous different spinach types available throughout the world.
Different types of spinach are detected according to their weather adaptation, surroundings, and the places where they grow & are eaten. Let’s explore more about spinach in the blog below.
Main Types of Spinach and their Uses
Below is a list of some important types of spinach and their uses which will help you to differentiate among them properly –
- Flat-Leaf Spinach:
Another name for flat-leaf spinach is smooth spinach with very thin leaves shaped like spades. They have a very tender structure and are a bit sweet in taste.
- Baby Spinach:
As compared to mature spinach, baby spinach is harvested much sooner and that is why they are smaller in size.
- Savoy Spinach:
The specialty of this type of spinach is that it has crinkled leaves which are very dark green-colored.
Health Benefits of Spinach
Following are some very crucial health benefits of spinach that the human body can receive –
- Rich in Nutrients Improving Blood Flow:
The enriched nitrates present in spinach help people regulate their blood flow and keep it even for a much longer time.
- Contains Vitamin A effective for Eyesight:
Eyesight improvement is facilitated to a great extent with the regular consumption of spinach. This is because it contains Vitamin A which helps in keeping proper check on people’s eyesight.
- Great Potassium Source Regulating Blood Pressure:
Spinach is a very excellent source of potassium for the body. With the help of this potassium, regulating blood pressure becomes easier for people.
- Powerhouse of Antioxidants Preventing Chronic Disorders:
Consists of antioxidants such as lutein, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin which protect the body cells from attracting chronic diseases.
Nutritional Value of Spinach
Spinach can offer a lot of nutritional value to the human body and some of the topmost ones among them are –
- Very Low-Calorie Count:
Spinach has a very low calorie count which makes it much healthier to eat at any time of the day.
- Rich in Magnesium, Iron, & Calcium:
Spinach is rich in antioxidants such as calcium, magnesium, and iron which provide immunity and strength to the human body.
- Consists of Body Supporting Oxalates and Purines:
There are various oxalates and purines present in spinach which support the overall balance of the body.
- Enriched with Vitamin C facilitating Iron Absorption:
Spinach is rich in Vitamin C which helps in absorbing iron better in the body. This way, people will not suffer from iron deficiency and attract any diseases related to the same.
Conditions When You Should Avoid Spinach
Under the below health conditions, avoid consumption of spinach completely or at least till the doctor gives a green signal –
- People who are having health issues related to their joints, including kidney stones, or consuming aspirin as blood thinners, should completely avoid the intake of spinach.
- Spinach should also be avoided by those who are digestion-sensitive. This is because spinach is a bit difficult to digest, especially in rainy or winter seasons. So, make sure to avoid spinach upon digestion sensitivity in extreme weather conditions.
- Thyroid patients should completely avoid spinach consumption or at least check with their doctors for a specific amount of recognition. This way, people will not put themselves and their health in danger & will also be able to get the health benefits spinach offers, if possible.
