Eating spinach can increase iron levels
Spinach is one of the healthiest leafy vegetables. It is recommended to add spinach to your daily diet, especially in the winter season. Spinach, also known as palak, is often used to make curry. Some people add it to pasta or salads. However, if you don't consume spinach the right way, its nutritional value can be affected. As you know, cooking methods affect the nutritional content of food. Similarly, spinach also needs to be consumed in the right way to retain all the essential nutrients.
Nutritionist Nmami Agarwal shared three common mistakes to avoid when consuming spinach in an Instagram video. Let's take a look at these.
Avoid these mistakes when eating spinach
1.Do not eat raw
In the caption of the video, Nmami said that eating raw spinach can contribute to the formation of kidney stones. She explained that spinach contains oxalic acid, which inhibits the absorption of minerals such as calcium and iron. Oxalic acid forms crystals when combined with calcium. Therefore, eating raw spinach may put you at risk for developing kidney stones.
Eating raw spinach may increase your risk of developing kidney stones
Photo credit: iStock
2. Do not overcook.
On the other hand, overcooking spinach can cause it to lose nutrients. It can deplete all the calcium it contains.
3. Don't make smoothies
Blending spinach into smoothies is a common practice these days. However, many people don't know that blending spinach leaves destroys the fibers and does not remove the oxalic acid they contain.
What is the correct way to cook spinach?
Nutritionists recommend lightly cooking spinach.
She says lightly cooked spinach contains all the important nutrients, although it has limited oxalate.
Lightly cooked spinach provides maximum nutrients
Photo credit: iStock
Let's also take a look at some notable health benefits of eating spinach.
- Spinach is rich in nutrients such as vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron, and folic acid.
- Contains antioxidants that reduce oxidative stress
- Spinach promotes eye health and helps regulate blood pressure levels
- Spinach is also rich in fiber, which improves digestion and supports weight loss.
Don't miss out on the amazing benefits of spinach this winter and consume it the right way.
Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides general information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV is not responsible for this information.
