Spinach is useful against disorders of the Immune System, the Skin, hair and eyes, the Heart and Circulation, The Nervous System, Bones, Joints and Muscles and the Reproductive System.
It is good for disorders such as chronic fatigue, pre-pregnancy, anaemia, stress, cancer protection, sight protection and low immunity. Like other members of the cruciferous family of vegetables it has been shown to have protective powers against cancer. (Other crucifers include cauliflower, kale, radishes, horseradish, cabbage, spring greens, turnips, brussels sprouts and kale).
Spinach is rich in carotenoids, including betacarotene, a strong cancer protector, Iron, Vitamin C and folic acid which also help anaemia, protect against birth defects, and boost energy.
The total antioxidant activity of a food is tested using a measure called the ORAC scale. To counteract the harmful oxidising effects of everything the average person eats, drinks and breathes in a day, around 1650 ORAC units are required in the food and drink consumed daily. Scientists believe that over 80% of the World's population actually fails to get more than 800 ORAC units per day, leaving the body open to damage by oxidation, which can ultimately lead to heart, liver, digestion and kidney diseases and most importantly cancer. Spinach contains around 1260 ORAC units.
Nutrients
Cancer patients, or those at risk from cancer, such as heavy smokers, should include plenty of spinach in their diet too. Cancer research is increasingly focusing on the whole spectrum of carotenoids - not just betacarotene - in dark-green, or brightly-coloured fruits and vegetables, and spinach is more highly endowed with these potential cancer-fighters even than carrots. In population studies dark green vegetables, with spinach heading the list, are strongly protective against cancer. Like peppers they contain special carotenoids which protect against the sight-destroying age related macular degeneration.