If you've ever watched Popeye, you'll know that the secret to his strength is spinach. But is there any truth in this?
Turns out maybe there is.
Studies have shown that due to inorganic nitrate found in spinach, it could actually help your strength power. During the study, participants were given a small dose of nitrate, equivalent to that found in a plate of spinach. When the participants exercised they were found to have a reduced need for oxygen and an improved muscle performance, due to increased efficiency of the mitochondria that power cells.
So, spinach could indeed help in making you strong, but that's not its only benefit - check out these other health benefits of spinach:
1. Vitamin A
Spinach has high levels of vitamin A which is known for its role in supporting the immune system, helping bones grow, maintaining good vision and keeping skin healthy.
2. Vitamin C
Another source of dairy-free calcium, a cup of spinach packs 12% of the daily recommended allowance. Vitamin C is vital for maintaining teeth and bone strength, muscle function and nerve transmission.
3.Chlorophyll
The green colour of spinach indicates a level of chlorophyll which helps in blood clotting, hormone balance and digestive health.
