Background

• Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a good source of iron, folic acid, vitamin B6, nitrates, oxalates, beta-carotene, and lutein. In addition to its food value, spinach has a number of therapeutic uses.
• The German Commission E reports the use of spinach for gastrointestinal disorders, blood-generating therapy, growth stimulation in children, appetite stimulation, convalescent support, and fatigue. Studies have also suggested its use as an anticancer agent, antioxidant, and cancer preventative. Spinach may also reduce age-related eyesight deterioration from macular degeneration and cataracts. More high-quality research is needed.

References

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