Sunday, September 6, 2015

পালং শাক / Spinace
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is an edible flowering plant in the family Amaranthaceae native to central and western Asia. Its leaves are eaten as a vegetable.

The health benefits of spinach. This healthy green is full of vitamins, antioxidants and minerals. Spinach has an extremely high nutritional value and is rich in antioxidants. It is a good source of vitamins A, B2, C and K, and also contains magnesium, manganese, folate, iron, calcium and potassium. In a 100 g (3.5 oz) serving providing only 23 calories, spinach has a high nutritional value, especially when fresh, frozen, steamed, or quickly boiled. It is a rich source (20% or more of the Daily Value, DV) of vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, iron and folate (table). Spinach is a good source (10-19% of DV) of the B vitamins riboflavin and vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium, potassium, and dietary fiber.
Iron
Spinach, along with other green, leafy vegetables, contains an appreciable amount of iron attaining 21% of the Daily Value in a 100 g (3.5 oz) amount of raw spinach (table). For example, the United States Department of Agriculture states that a 100 g (3.5 oz) serving of cooked spinach contains 3.57 mg of iron, whereas a 100 g (3.5 oz) ground hamburger patty contains 2.49 mg. However, spinach contains iron absorption-inhibiting substances, including high levels of oxalate, which can bind to the iron to form ferrous oxalate and render much of the iron in spinach unusable by the body. In addition to preventing absorption and use, high levels of oxalates remove iron from the body.
Calcium

Spinach also has a moderate calcium content which can be affected by oxalates, decreasing its absorption. The calcium in spinach is among the least bioavailable of food calcium sources. By way of comparison, the human body can absorb about half of the calcium present in broccoli, yet only around 5% of the calcium in spinach.
Types of spinach
A distinction can be made between older varieties of spinach and more modern ones. Older varieties tend to bolt too early in warm conditions. Newer varieties tend to grow more rapidly, but have less of an inclination to run up to seed. The older varieties have narrower leaves and tend to have a stronger and more bitter taste. Most newer varieties have broader leaves and round seeds.
The three basic types of spinach are:

'Savoy' has dark green, crinkly and curly leaves. It is the type sold in fresh bunches in most supermarkets in the United States. One heirloom variety of savoy is 'Bloomsdale', which is somewhat resistant to bolting. Other common heirloom varieties are 'Merlo Nero' (a mild variety from Italy) and 'Viroflay' (a very large spinach with great yields).
Flat- or smooth-leaf spinach has broad, smooth leaves that are easier to clean than 'Savoy'. This type is often grown for canned and frozen spinach, as well as soups, baby foods, and processed foods. 'Giant Noble' is an example variety.
Semi-savoy is a hybrid variety with slightly crinkled leaves. It has the same texture as 'Savoy', but it is not as difficult to clean. It is grown for both fresh market and processing. 'Tyee Hybrid' is a common semi-savoy.
What is baby spinach good for?

Nutritional Profile. Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids), manganese, folate, magnesium, iron, copper, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, vitamin E, calcium, potassium and vitamin C. It is a very good source of dietary fiber, phosphorus, vitamin B1, zinc, protein and choline.
How much vitamin K is in a cup of spinach?
Cooked spinach contains more vitamin K per 1/2-cup serving, since cooked spinach takes up less space than raw spinach, making it possible to fit more into the same amount of space. Each half cup of cooked spinach contains 444.2 micrograms of vitamin K, while a half cup of raw spinach only contains 72.4 micrograms.
Is spinach good for high blood pressure?
When it comes to lowering your blood pressure, these foods are among your best bets. A green leafy delight,spinach is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with heart-healthy nutrients like potassium, folate, and magnesium — key ingredients for lowering and maintaining blood pressure levels.
Is eating spinach good for your skin?

You may hate spinach, but it is a wonderful source of iron, folate, chlorophyll, Vitamin E, magnesium, Vitamin A, fiber, plant protein, and Vitamin C. Due to their antioxidant abilities, Vitamins C, E, and A are especially great for your skin. Spinach contains antioxidants that fight against all types of skin problems.
Can you eat raw spinach?
The bitter flavour is distinctive - you either love it or hate it - and particularly complements dairy products and eggs. The
milder, young leaves can be eaten raw in a salad, while the older ones are usually cooked (spinach has one of the shortest cooking times of all vegetables).
Can spinach give you gas?
Cooking can also reduce the oxalic acid level -- so steaming your baby spinach for a few minutes can make it easier to digest. For some people, raw and cooked spinach causes digestive discomfort, which often includes bloating and excessive gas.
How much is a serving of spinach?
One cup of fresh spinach is a serving, but what if it's steamed? Serving sizes can get a little confusing. The general rule of thumb is that a one-half cup of vegetables or one cup of green leafy vegetables equals a serving.
What foods are high in vitamin K?
Top 10 Vitamin K Rich Foods List
1) Green Leafy Vegetables (Kale) ½ c: 444 mcg (over 100% DV)
2) Natto (fermented soy) 2 oz: 500 mcg (over 100% DV)
3) Spring onions (Scallions) ½ c: 103 mcg (over 100% DV)

4) Brussels Sprouts. ½ c: 78 mcg (98% DV)
5)Cabbage. ...
6) Broccoli. ...
7) Dairy (fermented) ...
8) Prunes.
How do you make spinach juice?
Directions for making Juice without Juicer:
Clean the spinach and cut celery and carrot into large pieces.
Add carrot, celery and 1½ cups water in the large jar of a mixer grinder or a blender.
Blend it until puree.
Add spinach and juice from 1/2 lime over it.
Blend again until smooth puree.
Is it better to eat spinach raw or cooked?
Raw spinach is significantly higher in folate, vitamin C, niacin, riboflavin and potassium. Ounce for ounce, cooked spinach provides greater amounts of vitamins A and E, protein, fiber, zinc, thiamin, calcium and iron.
How do you cook spinach?
Method
1 Cut off the thick stems of the spinach and discard. ...

2 Heat 2 Tbsp olive oil in a large skillet on medium high heat. ...
3 Add the spinach to the pan, packing it down a bit if you need to with your hand. ...
4 After 2 minutes of covered cooking the spinach should be completely wilted
When you cook spinach does it lose nutrients?
Spinach is most nutrient-dense when you eat it raw, but it retains more vitamins with some cooking methods than with others. Because many of spinach's nutrients, including vitamin C, folate, B vitamins and thiamin, are water soluble, spinach loses a large portion of its nutrients when it is boiled or steamed.
How many calories are in sauteed spinach?
10 ounces baby spinach=about 8 cups raw.

Nutrition.

Per serving: 68 calories; 5 g fat (1 g sat, 4 g mono); 0 mg cholesterol; 4 g carbohydrates; 0 g added sugars; 3 g protein; 2 g fiber; 172 mg sodium; 540 mg potassium.
How many vegetables should you eat a day?
According to the 2005 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, you should consume between five and 13 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. This is equivalent to about 2 1/2 to 6 1/2 cups daily, depending on the amount of calories you need to consume for your weight and level of activity.
Nutrition Facts
Spinach
Amount Per 1 cup (30 g)

Calories                     7
% Daily Value*
Total Fat                    0.1 g   0%
Saturated fat                       0 g      0%
Polyunsaturated fat           0 g     
Monounsaturated fat 0 g
Cholesterol 0 mg    0%
Sodium 24 mg         1%
Potassium 167 mg 4%
Total Carbohydrate           1.1 g   0%
Dietary fiber                        0.7 g   2%
Sugar                                     0.1 g  

Protein                      0.9 g   1%
Vitamin A      56%    Vitamin C      14%
Calcium         3%      Iron                4%
Vitamin D     0%      Vitamin B-6  5%
Vitamin B-12           0%      Magnesium  6%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Spinach: Health Benefits 
We all have seen Popeye eating it and building big muscles. This is, indeed, true because spinach is a super food promising a range of benefits of spinach for health given below.
spinach health benefits for skin
1. Beneficial for Weight Loss:
Spinach leaves help in weight reduction as it is low in calories and fat. It is very nutritious and has a good quality of fat soluble dietary fibre. This fibre aids in digestion, prevents constipation, maintains low blood sugar and curbs overeating. Thus, this leafy vegetable is often recommended to dieters because in dieting, it is important to avoid repetitive eating.
2. Anti-cancer:
Spinach is rich in flavonoids- a phytonutrient with anti-cancer properties. Thus, it has
been found to be effective in slowing down cell division in human stomach and skin cancer cells. Moreover, spinach has proven to be effective in providing protection against the occurrence of aggressive prostate cancer.
3. Eye Health:
Spinach contains antioxidants lutein and zeaxanthin in plentiful which protect the eye from cataracts and age related macular degeneration (ARMD). Zeaxanthin is an important dietary carotenoid which is absorbed into the retinal macula lutea in the eyes, providing light filtering functions. Spinach also contains vitamin A which is required for maintaining healthy mucus membranes and essential for normal eyesight.
4. Healthy Bones:
Spinach is rich in vitamin K which is vital for maintaining bone health. A cup of boiled spinach provides around 1000% of the RDA of vitamin K which lowers and controls the over activation of osteoclasts. These are the cells that aid in breaking down the bone structure over a short period of time. Vitamin K also promotes the synthesis of osteocalcin, the protein that is essential for maintaining the strength and density of bones. Spinach is a good alternative to dairy products as it gives proper substitute to calcium, thus preventing the occurrence of osteoporosis. It is an important protein diet for vegans as it helps in building the muscle tissues as well as supporting the collagen growth.
5. Lowers Hypertension:

Hypertension or high blood pressure is responsible for causing kidney disease, heart ailments and stroke. Consuming spinach is beneficial in lowering hypertension as some of its constituents help to reduce stress and anxiety. The nutrients play a critical role in keeping the balance of Na- K pump by lowering the K (potassium) in your body. Vitamin C also plays an important role in lowering hypertension.
6. Relaxes the Body:
Spinach keeps the body relaxed and completely stress free. It contains tremendous amounts of zinc and magnesium which enable you to sleep better at night, thus making way for more effective healing. Magnesium helps in replenishing your lost energy within seconds. A good quality sleep rests your tired eyes, thus relaxing your body as a whole.
7. Gastrointestinal Health:
Consuming more of spinach promotes gastrointestinal health. The beta-carotene and vitamin C present in it protect the cells of the body’s colon from the harmful effects of free radicals. Besides, folate prevents DNA damage and mutations in colon cells.
8. Brain and Nervous Function:
Spinach maintains proper brain functioning specially during old age. Consumption of spinach on a daily basis makes your brain young and active, thus enabling you to think intelligently. Spinach contains folate, vitamin K and vitamin C which help in modulating the hormone production of our nervous system. Vitamin K promotes healthy nervous system and brain function by facilitating the synthesis of sphingolipids, the crucial fat that makes up the Myelin sheath around our nerves. Thus, spinach can prove beneficial for correcting behavioral and cognitive issues.
9. Prevention of Atherosclerosis and Heart Attack:

Excessive fat deposition can cause thickening of the human artery wall resulting in Atherosclerosis. Heart attacks are caused due to the hardening of the artery walls. Spinach is rich in Lutein content which prevents thickening of the walls of arteries, thus reducing the risk of heart attack. Besides, spinach contains a high quality nitrite which not only helps in preventing the occurrence of heart attack but also cures the heart diseases associated with fat deposition.
10. Lowers Blood Pressure:
Peptides contained in spinach are effective in lowering blood pressure as they inhibit the angiotensin I-converting enzyme.
11. Anti-inflammatory Properties:
Spinach contains Neoxanthin and violaxanthin, the two anti-inflammatory epoxyxanthophylls that regulate inflammation. Thus, it is beneficial in preventing inflammatory diseases such as arthritis, osteoporosis, migraine headaches and asthma.
12. Aids in Calcification:
Being rich in vitamin K, spinach aids in calcification. This is because this vitamin is a crucial component of the process called carboxylation which produces the matrix Gla protein. This directly prevents calcium from forming in tissue, thus fighting atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease and stroke.
13. Boosts Immunity:

Vitamin A in spinach protects and strengthens the entry points into the human body, such as mucous membranes, respiratory, urinary and intestinal tracts besides being a key component of lymphocytes (white blood cells) that fight infection. One cup of spinach provides as much as 337% of the RDA of vitamin A.
14. Prevents Anaemia:
Regular consumption of spinach can prevent anaemia as it is an excellent source of iron. This mineral is particularly important for menstruating women and growing children and adolescents. Moreover, it is much
better than red meat as it provides a lot less calories and is fat and cholesterol free. Iron is also needed for good energy as it is a component of haemoglobin which carries oxygen to all cells of the body.
Spinach: Skin Benefits
Skin is the largest and the most sensitive organ of our body. We all crave for healthy and glowing skin as it enhances our appearance to a great extent. Thus, even our skin needs certain nutrients for maintaining its health. Green leafy vegetables are great for skin and spinach is no exception.  Loaded with most useful vitamins like Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin K as well as vital minerals, this vegetable plays an important role in skincare. Following are the benefits of spinach for skin.
 spinach skin benefits
15. Cures Acne:

Spinach is effective in clearing up acne, thus maintaining healthy skin. To get rid of acne, you can make a face mask by blending spinach with little water and applying it on your face for 20 minutes. This will remove dirt, oil and inflammation from your skin, thus refreshing and rejuvenating it from within. You can also drink spinach juice with other vegetable juices mixed in the following proportions, ½ tomato, ¼ cucumber, 1 carrot, 1 celery, ½ red pepper, ½ cup cabbage, 1 green onion and a handful of spinach. Blend these ingredients to get the juice and drink it daily. This is effective for skin healing and prevents acne.
16. Sun Protection:
Spinach is rich in vitamin B which protects your skin from the harmful ultra violet rays that cause sun damage, skin cancer and pre-mature ageing of skin.
17. Anti-ageing Benefits:
Spinach is loaded with tons of antioxidants that destroy free radicals in your body. These free radicals damage your skin, thereby causing pre-mature ageing. Thus, eating spinach regularly will maintain the youth of your skin and slow down age related degeneration, making your skin look younger and rejuvenated.
18. Improves Complexion:

Being rich in vitamin K and folate, spinach gives you a clear complexion by minimizing acne, bruising on the skin and dark circles. The bounty of vitamin and minerals in this vegetable give you quick relief from dry itchy skin, thus providing you with a radiant complexion.
19. Skin Repair:
As stated earlier, spinach is a rich source of vitamin A and vitamin C. Vitamin A improves skin tone whereas vitamin C plays an
important role in the repair as well as growth of skin cells. The amazing antioxidants and nutrients in spinach even out your complexion, making your skin look radiant.
Spinach: Hair Benefits
Proper nutrition is vital for getting luxurious hair. For this purpose, it is important to have a balanced diet which provides you with the required nutrients. Spinach occupies an important place in this regard as it is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants that promote healthy hair. Regular consumption of spinach can offer the following benefits to your hair.
20. Promotes Hair Growth:
Spinach is a super food comprising of vitamins B, C and E, potassium, calcium, iron, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids all of which are required for healthy hair growth.
Iron helps the red blood cells carry oxygen to hair follicles which is essential for healthy hair growth and strong strands.
21. Combats Hair Loss:
Hair loss is often caused due to the deficiency of iron. This mineral strengthens the hair strands by enabling the blood cells to carry oxygen to the hair follicles. Deficiency of iron causes anemia which results in hair loss among other adverse effects. Spinach is rich in folate and iron. While folate aids the creation of red blood cells, iron helps them carry oxygen, thus combating hair loss.

Recipe

Spinach (Saag)
Ingredients
1 medium onion, chopped

2 tablespoons oil
6 garlic cloves, chopped
2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
1/2 teaspoon turmeric
1/2 teaspoon cayenne
1/2 teaspoon garam masala
1/8 teaspoon ground cardamom
2 pounds spinach leaves, chopped
1 cup plain low-fat yogurt
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Preparation
In a 6- to 8-qt. pot, cook onion in oil over medium heat until softened, about 10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 2 minutes. Add ginger and spices and cook until fragrant, about 1 minute. Working in batches, stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in yogurt and salt. Serve with steamed basmati rice and warm naan (Indian flatbread).
Palak Curry Recipe
Ingredients
Palak,
Moongdal,

Jeera,
Mustarseeds,
Onions,
Greenchilli,
Garlic small pieces.
Method
FInely chop palak and garlic and keep aside. Cut onions and put them in seasoning with jeera and mustard seeds also add the garlic pieces.
Keep moongdal soaked till they become tender,
Now add nealty chopped palak and also add the soaked moongdal and add salt.
Cook them till tey are done.
A fresh curry is ready to eat.
Palak(Spinach) Sabji
Ingredients
Salt     To Taste
Oil       1 Teaspoon
Spinach         1 Bunch (100 gm) (green palak)
Chopped garlic        3 Clove (15 gm)

Chopped green chillies     3

Green peas   1⁄4 Cup (4 tbs)
Ground roasted peanuts  1 Teaspoon
Directions
1. Wash & cut Palak leaves.
2. Heat oil in kadhai. Then add green chillies. Fry for a minute.
3. Add chopped garlic. Fry garlic till it get little bit brown.
4. Then add chopped palak leaves & green peas.
5. Cook for a minute. Then add salt & ground peanuts.
6. This sabji will be ready in 5 min.
7. Serve this sabji with Chapati / Roti
Palak Paneer
Ingredients
FOR SPINACH PASTE

Spinach         2 Bunch (200 gm), washed
Water            1⁄2 Cup (8 tbs)
OTHER INGREDIENTS
Oil       1 Tablespoon
Cumin seeds 1 Teaspoon
Onions           2 , finely chopped
Garlic 1 Tablespoon, finely chopped
1 inch piece ginger 1
Salt     To Taste
Cumin powder        1 Teaspoon
Garam masala         1 Teaspoon
Red chili powder     1 Teaspoon
Paneer           100 Gram, cubed

Water            2 Tablespoon
Directions
GETTING READY
1.        In a saucepan, add in the water and spinach and let it cook for 4 – 5 minutes.
2.        Cool the spinach and blend until smooth.
MAKING
3.        In a pan, heat oil and add in the cumin seeds. Let it pop.
4.        Add in the onion, ginger and garlic. Cook for a few seconds and season with salt.
5.        Season with cumin powder, garam masala and red chili powder.
6.        Add in the spinach paste and sauté for a few seconds. Stir in the paneer and pour in the water, cook for a few seconds.
Spinach Smoothie
Deliciously Refreshing Green Smoothie Recipes
Sometimes you’re just not in the mood to eat your vegetables. If you’re bored of the same old salads, let us introduce you to our favorite green smoothie recipes. But just because a drink is labeled a smoothie does not mean it’s healthy, so we’ve sipped around to find the most nutrient-rich and delicious recipes made from real whole foods. Need a filling breakfast or a refreshing afternoon pick-me-up? These creamy concoctions from our favorite food bloggers (plus a few of our own!) will take your taste buds for a spin. And all you need to get started is a blender. So, get mixing and raise a glass to good health!
Matcha Pear Green Protein Smoothie Recipe
Move over, kale — matcha is the hot new green in town. The finely ground green tea powder delivers caffeine, while protein powder ensures you’ll stay full long after guzzling down this tasty, refreshing shake. 
 Spinach Orange Smoothie

Orange you craving a thick, and creamy drink? Citrus flavors can give you a boost of energy sans caffeine, so try blending this recipe up before you head out the door. Pro tip: Cut up the banana and freeze it the night before, and you won’t have to use ice. 
Orange Kale Protein Juice Recipe
Life is hard. Why should you have to choose between a protein shake and a juice? With 30 grams of protein, plus pulverized kale and fresh orange, you can have it all with every smooth sip. Photo and Recipe: Perry Santanachote / Life by Daily Burn
 ginger-orange-green-smoothie-recipe
Ginger-Orange Green Smoothie
Five ingredients are all you need for this sunshine-in-a-glass smoothie. Make sure to blend the spinach and romaine first, then add the banana, oranges and ginger. 
Blueberry Mint Green Smoothie
Don’t be fooled by the purple hue! This violet blend is chock-full of delicious nutrients that’ll make other smoothies green with envy. The extra kick of color — and flavor — comes from a full cup of antioxidant-rich blueberries, nutrient powerhouses that are a significant source of vitamins K and C, fiber and manganese. 
Spring Detox Green Smoothie

Give ‘em kale! This veg-tastic smoothie has a mix of savory and sweet flavors, thanks to cilantro, honey, ginger and pineapple. Plus, you’ll get just the slightest boost of caffeine from green tea. 
Flax and Oats Smoothie
If it’s too hot for oatmeal but you still want some whole grains, try this emerald shake that’s got a hearty amount of raw rolled oats. Sprinkle on some homemade granola if you like some extra crunch. 
Honeydew Mint Smoothie
Refresh yourself while indulging your sweet tooth with this
light and fruity green smoothie. For an extra-cold drink, chill your melon and coconut milk in the fridge before making. Put in a splash of liquor if you’re in the mood to celebrate.
Peachy Green Protein Smoothie
With 31 grams of protein, this smoothie works well for breakfast or as a post-workout snack. Sweeten the deal with some peaches and pineapple and you’ve got one satisfying sip! 
Kale Pina-Covado Smoothie
Taste the tropics and get some veggies, too. This kale blend gets its sweetness from pineapple and its creaminess from half an avocado. Share the second serving with a friend, or keep it in the fridge for up to two days.
Happy Green Monster

Put some pep in your step with this pear-based shake. Pear and coconut water pack enough of potassium to keep your muscles working efficiently, plus spinach and kale are chock-full of fiber to keep your digestion as happy as your taste buds.
Green Protein Smoothie Recipe
Joe Wicks, aka The Body Coach and “Lean in 15” creator, is all about quick and dirty meals and snacks. In this recovery smoothie
recipe, he adds spinach for replenishing vitamin K, protein powder to help rebuild muscles and honey for a touch of natural
Vanilla Matcha Protein Smoothie
Matcha powder is more concentrated than regular green tea, so it packs ten times more antioxidants. Although it’s less bitter than green tea, a little goes a long way when incorporating it into a recipe. In this delicious smoothie, it takes well to the creamy sweetness of banana, vanilla and almond milk. 
Originally published April 2014. Updated September 25, 2016.

Spinach, cooked
1.00 cup
180.00 grams
Calories: 41
GI: 
very low
Nutrient
Amount
DRI/DV
(%)
Nutrient
Density
World's Healthiest
Foods Rating
888.48 mcg
987
429.2
excellent
943.29 mcg RAE
105
45.6
excellent
1.68 mg
84
36.5
excellent
262.80 mcg
66
28.6
excellent
156.60 mg
39
17.0
excellent
6.43 mg
36
15.5
excellent
0.31 mg
34
15.0
excellent
0.42 mg
32
14.0
excellent
0.44 mg
26
11.3
excellent
3.74 mg (ATE)
25
10.8
excellent
244.80 mg
24
10.6
excellent
838.80 mg
24
10.4
excellent
17.64 mg
24
10.2
excellent
4.32 g
17
7.5
very good
100.80 mg
14
6.3
very good
0.17 mg
14
6.2
very good
1.37 mg
12
5.4
very good
5.35 g
11
4.7
very good
35.46 mg
8
3.6
very good
0.17 g
7
3.1
good
0.88 mg
6
2.4
good
0.26 mg
5
2.3
good
2.70 mcg
5
2.1
good

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