The Benefits, Uses, and Contraindications of Spinach
Disease description:
I've had constipation for a week and have already taken laxatives. However, my doctor still recommends incorporating more bowel-regulating foods into my diet, such as spinach. I would like to learn more about the benefits, functions, and any contraindications associated with consuming spinach.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Shen Yonghua
Functions and Benefits of Spinach:
1. Enhances immunity: Spinach contains abundant beta-carotene, which can be converted into vitamin A in the body. This process helps promote protein synthesis and thereby enhances immune function.
2. Promotes beauty and skin health: The antioxidant components in spinach help combat cellular oxidation, eliminate free radicals, reduce pigmentation and wrinkles, thus achieving cosmetic and anti-aging effects.
3. Prevents anemia: Spinach is rich in iron, which helps promote hemoglobin synthesis and effectively prevents and treats iron-deficiency anemia.
4. Protects vision: Beta-carotene in spinach, after being converted into vitamin A, helps maintain healthy vision and supports epithelial cell health.
Contraindications of Spinach:
1. Should not be consumed with soy products: The oxalic acid in spinach may combine with calcium in soy products and form stones; therefore, simultaneous consumption should be avoided.
2. Should not be consumed with cold-natured foods: Cold-natured foods such as luffa, when consumed with spinach, may intensify internal coldness, irritate the gastric mucosa, and cause discomfort symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain.
