Spinach 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits
Spinach 101: Nutrition Facts and Health Benefits Spinach is a leafy green vegetable. Scientifically known as as Spinacia oleracea, spinach belongs to the amaranth family and is related to beets and quinoa. Spinach originated in Persia, but is now produced mostly in the US and China. It is loaded with nutrients and antioxidants, and considered to be very healthy. Eating spinach may benefit eye health, reduce oxidative stress, help prevent cancer and reduce blood pressure levels. There are many ways to prepare spinach. You can buy it canned or fresh, and then eat it cooked or raw. It is delicious either on its own or in other dishes. Nutrition Facts By weight, spinach consists of 91.4% water, 3.6% carbs and 2.9% protein. There are 23 calories in 100 grams (3.5 oz) of spinach. The table below contains information on the nutrients found in spinach (1). Nutrition Facts: Spinach, Raw — 100 grams Amount Calories 23 Water 91 % Protein 2.9 g Carbs 3.6