Spinach is rich in nutrients and helps prevent various diseases. [Photo=Clipart Korea]© Provided by Medi.com

There is a research finding (Dietary spinach reshapes the gut microbiome in an Apc-mutant genetic background: mechanistic insights from integrated multi-omics) that spinach has a unique effect in reducing the risk of colon cancer.

A research team at Texas A&M University in the United States observed changes in colon polyps in rats over a 26-week period while feeding them freeze-dried spinach. The results showed that spinach consumption delayed the development of polyps, reducing the need for intensive treatment.

Spinach is said to inhibit the growth of colon polyps and prevent the progression of cancer. Polyps refer to small proliferative masses on the mucous membranes inside the body, also known as polyps.

The research team initially hypothesized that spinach chlorophyll might have such 'anticancer' effects. However, through analysis, they confirmed that the inhibition of polyp growth was due to the interaction of fatty acids, linoleic acid derivatives, and intracellular metabolic substances.

So, should humans also eat spinach to prevent colon cancer? The research team said "of course" and explained that "the sooner you practice, the better." Spinach contains vitamins and antioxidants that help prevent various chronic diseases and support brain and cardiovascular health. The health benefits of spinach introduced by the American health and medical media 'Health' are summarized.

Low in calories, rich in nutrients = 3 cups of raw spinach contain about 20 calories, 2g of protein, 3g of carbohydrates, 2g of fiber, and 1g of fat. The calorie content is low, and the nutrients are abundant. One cup of spinach provides more than 100% of the daily recommended intake of vitamin K.

In addition, it contains sufficient amounts of vitamin A and vitamin C. Vitamin K and vitamin A help strengthen bones, while vitamin C aids in wound healing. Spinach provides folate, a vitamin B that helps in the formation of red blood cells and DNA, as well as iron, magnesium, potassium, calcium, and minerals.

Blocking inflammation in the body = In addition to vitamins and minerals, spinach is rich in antioxidants related to anti-inflammatory effects and disease protection. The antioxidant components in spinach include campesterol, quercetin, myricetin, and flavonoids (isohamnetin). Flavonoids are compounds that provide protection against cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and inflammatory conditions.

Helps prevent cancer, heart disease, and diabetes = Spinach reduces oxidative stress and positively influences the expression of specific genes involved in metabolism and inflammation. It also releases hormones that induce a feeling of fullness. Consuming enough spinach may help suppress chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and obesity.

Maintain cognitive function = The anti-inflammatory effects of spinach particularly protect the brain related to aging. According to studies, people who frequently consume green vegetables like spinach significantly reduce the rate of cognitive decline.

This is the result of a follow-up study on the eating habits and cognitive abilities of over 900 people aged 58 to 98 over approximately five years. Those who ate 1 to 2 servings of vegetables daily had cognitive abilities equivalent to someone about 7.5 years younger than their actual age.

Bright eyes = Lutein, one of the antioxidants in spinach, can reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Macular degeneration blurs vision, interfering with reading, driving, and other activities. It is a major cause of vision loss in people over 55. Since there is no definitive cure yet, prevention is very important.

According to research, people who consumed 75g of frozen spinach containing 10mg of lutein daily for two months showed increased levels of lutein in the blood and higher macular pigment optical density (MPOD). Enjoying spinach rich in lutein helps protect the eyes by acting as an internal sunglasses. When MPOD is low or decreases, the risk of macular degeneration increases.

Lowering blood pressure = Spinach is a natural source of nitrates, which are chemicals that occur naturally. Nitrates help to open or widen blood vessels. They improve blood flow and reduce stress on the heart.

According to research, people who consumed vegetables in nitrate-rich drinks such as spinach beverages experienced a sharp drop in blood pressure. The diastolic blood pressure (minimum blood pressure) remained low for five hours after drinking the spinach beverage.

===========

Spinach is very good for health.

Lower blood pressure and clear the eyes.

Adding spinach when making kimbap also tastes good, haha.

I want to eat kimbap.