Food & Receipts

This wild vegetable is packed with more iron than beef, also known as ”longevity herb”

When it comes to foods high in iron, people often think of beef, or seafood like shrimp and crab... No one would expect that this humble leafy vegetable, amaranth, is packed with so many beneficial effects.

Administrator

11 January, 2024

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According to experts, some types of vegetables and fruits have a relatively high iron content and are cheaper than beef, such as spinach. Spinach is widely grown in Vietnam and is rich in nutrients, so it is favored and known as the “longevity vegetable.”

Spinach is a common vegetable in Vietnam. It is easy to grow and can grow wild in many corners of the garden, so it is very cheap. However, this affordable vegetable is rich in nutrients and beneficial for health.

Here are 7 health benefits you will receive from regularly consuming spinach:

Spinach provides many antioxidants

Antioxidants have the effect of counteracting damage caused by free radicals in the body, preventing the development of chronic diseases.

Especially, this plant contains high levels of phenolic acids, including gallic acid and vanillic acid, which help protect the body and prevent cardiovascular diseases and cancer.

Spinach helps improve eyesight

Spinach is rich in minerals, carotene, protein, vitamin C, vitamin A, and other nutrients. These substances help improve eyesight and prevent night blindness. Therefore, you should consider adding spinach to your diet.

Improves anemia

Spinach is a suitable food for people of all ages, from children to the elderly. It is rich in calcium, iron, and vitamin K, which can promote blood production, maintain the normal functioning of the heart muscle, and prevent muscle cramps.

For middle-aged and elderly people and anemic patients, spinach is an excellent choice to supplement their diet. Spinach contains a relatively high amount of iron, with about 11.8mg of iron per 100 grams of red spinach.

Helps improve and reduce inflammation effectively

Inflammation is a reaction of the body to protect itself against damage and infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.

Many studies have concluded the anti-inflammatory effects of spinach and its ability to reduce the risk of inflammation and infection from wounds and skin problems.

Beneficial for diabetes

According to medical research, consuming spinach daily can help maintain stable blood sugar levels, thereby better controlling diabetes. Additionally, this food is rich in fiber and low in calories, helping to maintain an ideal weight and reduce the risk of diabetes.

Relieves constipation

Spinach is rich in fiber, and its fiber content is higher than other vegetables. Eating spinach helps promote bowel movements and improve digestion, while also eliminating harmful substances from the body.

Promotes growth and development

Spinach is considered a natural calcium supplement for children. Its leaves are rich in calcium and protein, with a higher calcium content than that found in shrimp, making it easily absorbed by the body. The calcium in spinach helps strengthen bones and teeth, preventing osteoporosis. Therefore, spinach is highly recommended for children and the elderly.

We have two types of spinach that we often eat, red spinach and spinach rice. Both types of spinach are rich in nutrients, so you can choose the one that suits your needs.