One cup of uncooked spinach has only 15 calories. It is also a good fiber food and has some protein. Spinach has a nutritional value and is loaded with such antioxidants as vitamin A, C, E, K, B1 and B6, minerals like potassium, calcium and zinc and so much more.
Vitamin A activity is high, about 4,500 IU for that 1 cup. B vitamins are low except for folic acid, vitamin C content is good, and there is some vitamin E as well.
Potassium, magnesium and calcium are high and copper, manganese, and zinc are also present. Spinach is a natural source of iron, making it a low-calories source of iron that’s so important to pregnant, lactating or menstruating women. One cup of uncooked spinach has nearly 2 mg of iron.
And like broccoli and almonds, it’s a rich non-dairy source of calcium, almost 36% of daily requirement in a single cup. The combination of calcium and vitamin K promotes bone health and prevents osteoporosis.
Spinach also contains glycoglycerolipids and the study shows that glycoglycerolipids can help protect the intestines from mucosal injury caused by inflammation and antioxidant damage.
Flavonoids in spinach are thought to slow cognitive decline, meaning they may prevent the memory loss that often accompanies aging.
Nutrients in spinach
