Spotlight: Spinach
Taylor Whittlesey shares her connection with this nutritious vegetable from her experiences growing up in Texas. Learn how her consumption with spinach has not only helped shaped her body and nutritional habits, but her family as well. #jmgfruitsandveggies
Background
I grew up participating in foods and nutrition projects in the Texas 4-H program. One meeting we discussed the nutrients in vegetables and I realized that I needed to eat more green foods on a daily basis. I was not quite for sure what type of greens to try, but I had heard that spinach was fairly mild in taste and really good for you. My first encounter with spinach was on my subway sandwich. After that, it quickly became one of my most favorite foods. Since my experience with spinach was so positive, I shared my story with my little brother. He tried the vegetable on the next sandwich he had and found he enjoyed it too!
That was ten years ago. Now, you cannot see us eating a sandwich or pizza without spinach on it!
Spinach Nutritional Content
Niacin
- Maintain good blood circulation
- Boosts memory
Zinc
- Aids in functioning of the immune system
- Improves digestion
Protein
- Smooth production of enzymes, hormones
- Improves muscular health
Vitamin E
- Reduced risk of cataracts, cancer
- Improves metabolism
Vitamin K
- Reduced risk of blood clotting, osteoporosis
- Relief from menstrual pain
Thiamin
- Maintains healthy nervous and cardiovascular functioning
Riboflavin
- Aids in energy production
Vitamin B6
- Benefits the immune system
- Aids in metabolism
Iron
- Brings oxygen to blood cells
Copper
- Proper growth
- Utilization of iron
- Prevents aging
- Aids in energy production
Manganese
- Ensures healthy bone structure and metabolism
Fiber
- Helps regulate the body’s use of sugars
- Helps stabilize hunger and blood sugar
Potassium
- Alleviates stress and anxiety
- Lowers blood pressure
- Enhances muscle strength and your metabolism
Phosphorus
- Aids in healthy bone formation
- Improves digestion
- Improves hormonal balance
Magnesium
- Aids in homeostasis of muscle and nerve functions
- Keeps heart beating rhythmically
Calcium
- Maintains bone and dental health
Vitamin A
- Aids in body’s immunity to fight infections
- Aids in improving vision
Vitamin C
- Prevention of scurvy
- Aids in immunity to common cold
Advice
Spinach is power packed with critical vitamins and minerals. They are great with many different varieties of dishes. They are typically grown in the spring or fall, so are very inexpensive now. Pick up a bag or bundle in your nearest farmers market or grocery store!
For some spinach recipes click here!
Resources:
http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2626/2