The Health Benefits of Spinach

Popeye had the right idea. The health benefits of spinach are tremendous. Whether eaten fresh or frozen the vitamins in this leafy green vegetable will benefit our bodies.

Vitamin K helps bone health. Spinach has two times the needed vitamin K our bodies require in one cup. Vitamin K regulates blood flow (normal blood clotting) in our bodies and maintains bone health. It has also been attributed to helping post-menopausal women reduce possible bone fractures that happen with osteoporosis. It transports calcium in our bodies, which helps calcium deficientcy problems such as osteoporosis and Crohn's disease.

It also has the vitamin A. Vitamin A is needed for healthy vision, and helps the cells in our body grow normally. When our bodies our found to be lacking this vitamin, health concerns of Anemia, Celiac disease, or night blindness can be suffered.

Adding spinach to our diets will help our health. Salads and dips are a good way to keep spinach part of our meals, and it's much needed nutrients.

The art of making a healthy, but good tasting low fat dip is the knowledge of which spices to utilize, and the uses of low fat items where applicable. We can make low fat versions and enjoy our dips without the worry of damaging our food plans.

Spinach Dip can be made zesty and bold or subtle and light flavored. If you are in the mood for something spicy, add some hot sauce, if feeling low key, add some fresh dill to this recipe. Either way, this low fat version will not compromise on taste.

Ingredients

1 bag frozen spinach completely thawed and drained.

1/2 cup low fat Peppercorn or Ranch dressing

1/3 cup low fat real mayonnaise.

1/4 cup finely chopped green onions

1 pint low fat sour cream

Black Pepper

Optional 2 dashes Louisiana hot sauce or Tabasco sauce.

Optional fresh dill to taste

Directions

In a medium sized salad bowl, combine spinach and green onion. Next add sour cream, mayonnaise, 2 dashes black pepper, and your dressing. Stir until completely mixed together. Now add your dash of hot sauce, or lightly cover with fresh dill. When adding hot sauces remember that less is more. It's better to start with one dash, and add more if you desire. Cover bowl and put in refrigerator for 2-3 hours until entirely chilled. This appetizer serves up to 6 guests and has less than 1 gram of fat per tablespoon. Serve with a variety of crackers and fresh vegetables.

Don't be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe! Enjoy.

Sources

http://www.vitamins-supplements.org/vitamin-K.php