The leafy green veggie has as many health benefits as ways to eat it.

Recipe photo: Morgan Hunt Glaze.

And spinach is one of the best sources.

a photo of the Cucumber-Blueberry Spinach Salad

Photo:Recipe photo: Morgan Hunt Glaze. EatingWell design.

Whats more, lutein may help protect the retina from diabetes-induced oxidative stress.

Spinach is a good source of fiber and water, two nutrients that support a healthy digestive system.

So to prevent this, eat spinach separately fromcalcium-rich foodsor supplements.

a recipe photo of the Cucumber-Blueberry Spinach Salad

One cup of cooked spinach has over a third of your daily iron requirements.

As a reference, the recommended daily intake of iron is 18 milligrams for adults.

Additionally, researchers have discovered a sulfur-containing sugar called sulfoquinovose in leafy greens like spinach.

a recipe photo of the Gut-Friendly Green Wellness Shot

And its mild flavor and tender texture make it easy to add it to a wide variety of dishes.

But theres no need to stick to just spinach.

Spinach is rich in fiber and water, which can help keep your digestive system regular.

a photo of a plated Spinach & Egg Scramble with Raspberries

Many bioactive compounds in spinach also help feed gut bacteria, supporting a healthy gut microbiome.

2023;14(4):1839-1850. doi:10.1039/d2fo03140j

American Optometric Association.Diet and Nutrition.

2020;6(7):e04408.

doi:10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04408

U.S. Department of Agriculture.

FoodData Central.Spinach, cooked, boiled, drained, without salt.

National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements.

Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.Iron.