The Skinny:
Is anyone prepared to argue with Popeye? Okay, he’s a little creepy, and his friends Olive Oyl, Bluto and Swee’Pea can be off-putting. But this sailorman knew about the power of spinach. It made him strong and determined, which consequently helped parents and grandparents convince younger ones that spinach was good for them. What’s amazing is that Popeye’s extremely positive take on spinach may have come up a little short on details. WellWell is stepping in to help build on what Popeye started by laying out spinach’s more specific benefits. But this list, while not specifically Popeye endorsed, is not meant to slight him in any way because almost everyone knows as this iconic sailorman always said: “I’m strong to the finish ’cause I eat me spinach.” Read on.
The Slate:
Blood Pressure Help
Spinach has naturally occurring nitrates, compounds that improve blood flow and ease the workload on the heart. One study discovered that compared to other nitrate-rich foods, spinach not only increased blood flow, but also kept diastolic blood pressure levels lower for an extended period.
Seeing The Benefits
Spinach’s dark green leaves contain chlorophyll and health-promoting carotenoids: including beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin. These nutrients are critical for healthy eyesight, which includes reducing the risk of macular degeneration and cataracts.
Cancer Cutter
The glycoglycerolipids in spinach may help thwart the growth of tumors and generally battle cancer. Vitamin A in spinach may specifically reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Bone Health
Munching spinach supports bone health thanks to its high level of vitamin K. The green powerhouse also helps the body absorb calcium. A single cup contains 250 milligrams of calcium which is critical for healthy bones and teeth.
Winning Skin
Vitamins C and A also help to fight off ultraviolet (UV) light damage, which lowers the risk of skin cancer. Spinach also contains antioxidants that help generate new skin cell growth and beef up collagen production, which aids skin to look youthful.
Green Energy
Popeye is strong to the finish because spinach contains lots of magnesium, which generates energy. Folate in spinach also help turn food into usable energy.
Recovery Relief
The antioxidants in spinach may not only help battle some cancers, but they may also boost exercise recovery. In one study, runners who munched spinach for two straight weeks leading up to a half marathon had less muscle damage after their run than those who skipped these greens.
Eyes Up:
What’s fueling your love of spinach? Let us know at info@wellwellusa.com.
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