Why Is Spinach so Good for You?
If the reason you know spinach is good for you is because either your mother told you, or you saw Popeye the Sailor down a can before a fight and gain superhuman strength, you might not understand exactly why it’s so good for you. Rest assured, your mom wasn’t lying (although Popeye might have been stretching the truth). Spinach is actually one of the most nutritious and versatile foods you can add to your diet. Here’s why. INCREDIBLE NUTRIENT-PER- CALORIE COUNT Three cups of spinach contain about 20 calories. However, those 3 cups also contain almost no fat, 2 grams of protein, 3 grams of carbs, and 2 grams of fiber. On top of that, you get more than 300% of your daily dose of vitamin K, which supports bone growth; 160% of your daily dose of vitamin A; and around 25%–40% of your daily dose of vitamin C, both of which help the immune system function properly.
POTENT PROTECTION AGAINST DISEASE The abundant antioxidants in spinach mitigate a staggering number of health problems. For starters, spinach has kaempferol, an antioxidant that can protect the body against cancer. Additionally, the antioxidant quercetin, also found in spinach, has been shown to have positive effects on brain health, heart disease, and Type 2 diabetes. Other components of spinach can also improve blood pressure and protect eye health. VERSATILE IN MEAL PREPARATION Aside from the more scientific reasons that make spinach a superfood, you can prepare and consume spinach in so many creative ways. You can eat it raw as a part of a salad, throw a few leaves in a smoothie, cook it in stir fry, or bake it into some brownies. If you have a bag of spinach in your fridge, there’s no shortage of ways you can get some of those amazing health benefits. Just don’t expect to suddenly vanquish all your foes like Popeye did.
No MoreWinter Blues
TREAT SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER WITH NATURAL SOLUTIONS
In this month’s cover letter, Dr. Sladic urged readers to practice gratitude and mindfulness, but for some readers, overcoming mental hurdles may be easier said than done — especially during the winter. Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a common form of seasonal depression that often strikes residents living in the northern hemisphere during the winter months. Experts believe this occurs because the body’s circadian rhythm is scrambled, as the sun rises later and sets sooner. The body struggles to comprehend dinnertime at 6 p.m., when a setting sun typically signals sleep. This disruption in routine makes it more difficult to complete regular tasks, like eating healthy, communicating effectively, and getting enough sleep. If you believe your “winter blues” are more than just cabin fever, these natural solutions may offer relief. Light Therapy: The idea behind this therapeutic treatment is simple. If the body is craving more sunlight and vitamin D, let’s give it what it needs! Patients are instructed to sit in front of a lightbox for about 30 minutes each day. (You can also try this with sunshine from the
window.) The light will stimulate a regular circadian rhythm and depress the brain’s production of its sleep hormone, melatonin.
Vitamin D Supplements: Research published in the journal Medical Hypotheses in 2014 found that low levels of vitamin D correlated with SAD. The sun offers vitamin D, but it may not be enough. You could fight this by taking supplements, but remember, not all supplements are created equal. Consult with Dr. Sladic to find the supplement that’s best for you. Movement: As simple as it may sound, movement can be a powerful tool against SAD. Take regular walks, or add 15 minutes of exercise to your morning. Just a little movement each day releases endorphins — the feel-good hormone — and can also signal to your body that it is indeed day time and the right time to be awake. If you believe your mindset is standing in the way of your goals, Call 1-877-861-5927 and schedule a free phone consultation! He can help you develop a plan that will set your mind on the right track. Visit DrSladic.com to get started on your mindfulness health journey.
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