We all know that leafy green vegetables are good for you, but spinach is actually more nutritious than most of this category because of its nutrient content. Spinach is in season throughout March to May and September to October but is available all throughout the year. By eating spinach, you not only provide your body with many vitamins and nutrients, but protect yourself from osteoporosis, cancer, arthritis, and even heart disease.

There are approximately thirteen different flavonoid compounds in spinach which having antioxidant properties, and fight cancers. Some of these compounds have been researched quite in depth, and have proven to actually slow down cancer cell growth in stomach cancers. They have also been effective in reducing certain skin cancers. As well as providing cancer fighting benefits, spinach is rich in calcium which promotes bone health. Getting enough calcium is sometimes difficult to do, especially for women who require so much of it. By eating spinach, you can ensure calcium needs are being met and will prevent osteoporosis later on in life. This super food also contains high levels of iron, potassium, and folate. For this reason, it will help prevent anemia, which is a deficiency characterized by low iron levels.

To get more spinach in your diet, try making salads with spinach instead of mixed greens, or iceberg lettuce which has little nutritional value. If you are not big on the taste, adding spinach to pasta, omelets, or soups is a great option. One thing to be mindful of, is that spinach contains oxalates, and therefore should not be eaten every single day according to some health practitioners. Oxalates are natural substances that are found in both our bodies, and in certain foods. For people with certain health conditions oxalates should be limited but for most people they are fine. Some research has been conducted as to the formation of kidney stones resulting from this chemical, but it has not yet been proven.