Health Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is extremely healthy and has been associated with several health benefits.
Woman Holding Two Bowls of Green Spinach
It has been shown to help decrease oxidative stress, improve vision health, aid in cancer prevention and help regulate blood pressure levels.
Decreased Oxidative Stress
Free radicals are a byproduct of metabolism. They can cause oxidative stress, which triggers accelerated aging. This also increases the risk of cancer and diabetes (24).
However, spinach contains antioxidants, which fight oxidative stress and help reduce the damage it causes.
One controlled trial that followed 8 healthy people found that spinach helped prevent oxidative damage (25).
Although the study mentioned above was
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These compounds might even be able to reverse existing damage (33, 34).
Bottom Line: Spinach contains compounds that are essential for vision. These compounds may help block or reverse the damage caused by sunlight.
Cancer Prevention
A Pile of Spinach Leaves
Spinach contains two components, SQDG and MGDG, which may slow down cancer.
In one study, these compounds blocked the growth of a tumor in a human cervix. They also decreased the size of the tumor (36, 37).
Several human studies link spinach consumption to a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Eating this leafy green may also help prevent breast cancer (38, 39).
Another animal study supports this claim. Its findings indicate that spinach might help suppress cancer from forming (40).
Additionally, spinach contains high amounts of antioxidants, which may also aid in cancer prevention (35).
Bottom Line: Spinach contains high amounts of antioxidants and other compounds that may suppress the growth of human cancer cells.
Reduced Blood Pressure
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Bottom Line: Spinach contains high amounts of nitrates, which may help regulate blood pressure levels. This leads to improved overall heart health and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Adverse Effects and Individual Concerns
Spinach is generally considered to be very healthy. However, its high nutrient content may cause adverse effects in some individuals.
Fresh Spinach Leaves Whole Image
Kidney Stones
These small stones are caused by acid and mineral salt buildup. The most common variety is calcium stones, which often consist of calcium oxalate.
Spinach is full of both calcium and oxalates, so people who tend to develop kidney stones should avoid eating it (41, 42).
Bottom Line: Spinach may cause health issues for individuals who tend to develop kidney stones. These people may want to limit or avoid spinach intake.
Blood Clotting
Spinach contains high amounts of vitamin K. In fact, spinach contains far more vitamin K than is recommended for daily intake.
Vitamin K serves several functions in the body, but is best known for its role in clotting