Spinach
Spinach is a powerhouse leafy green vegetable. It is low in carbs but high in insoluble fiber, which is important for digestive health. It contains high amounts of carotenoids, vitamin C, vitamin K, folic acid, iron, and calcium. These nutrients improve heart, skin, and immune system health, and aid nervous system functioning, tissue growth, and delivery of oxygen to the body’s tissues. Spinach boasts several beneficial plant compounds, such as lutein, kaempferol, nitrates, quercetin, and zeaxanthin. These compounds reduce the risk of chronic disease, reduce inflammation, and improve eye health. The antioxidants in spinach fight oxidative stress, which can accelerate aging and cause cancer or diabetes. Furthermore, the nitrates in spinach moderate blood pressure levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pop-eye may have been exaggerating, but spinach is truly an excellent source of nutrition.