Fresh Spinach Day is celebrated annually on July 16 to emphasize the many health benefits of fresh spinach. It’s not all fantasy that Popeye gains superhuman strength after consuming his canned spinach. Because, in reality, spinach can boost your health. From improving bone health to lowering the risk of cancer, spinach got you covered. Fresh Spinach Day reminds you to add this healthy leaf vegetable to your meals or smoothies. Creamed spinach, spinach dip, sautéed spinach, green smoothie – strongly yummy.
Spinach is said to be originating in Persia, and it was later brought to India and China via Nepal in 647 A.D. – known as ‘Persian green’ in China. Spinach was then introduced to Sicily by the Saracens in 827 A.D. It was later brought to Spain by the Arabs in the late 12th century, called ‘the chief of leafy greens.’ It then spread to England and France in the 14th century, known for a while as ‘the Spanish vegetable’ in England. In the U.S., spinach became popular in the 1800s. In the 1930s, there was a boost in spinach consumption due to the fame of Popeye.
Spinach has three main types: flat-leaf and savoy. Flat-leaf spinach or smooth-leaf spinach features flat and smooth leaves, hence the name. This type is typically grown for freezing and canning. It grows faster and yields more, and it’s easier to clean. On the other hand, the savoy type, with curly and crinkly leaves, is preferred for the use of the home garden and fresh market. It usually looks and tastes better and keeps longer than flat-leaf. Besides, it has less oxalic acid than flat-leaf. There’s also semi-savoy type spinach whose leaves are partially curly and crinkly.
Spinach is rich in nutrients, raw or cooked. If you consume raw spinach, you’ll likely absorb more folate, niacin, potassium, riboflavin, and vitamin C. Raw spinach is packed with fiber and water. And since raw spinach is quite flavorless, it’s easier to blend with sweet smoothies. When it comes to cooked spinach, you’ll likely absorb more of the iron and calcium that it provides. Besides, the amounts of vitamin A and E in cooked spinach are increased. So, whether you consume raw or cooked spinach, it will still give you the nutrients that your body needs.
