These days, you'll discover an abundant variety of spinach readily available at your local fruit and veg shop.  So It's easier than ever to boost your diet with this superfood power-house.

Simply add it to your sandwich at lunch, toss some in a stir-fry, shred it finely and add to your spaghetti bol just before serving, or make a gorgeous green salad.

Check out our medley of spinach recipes in the related links box (to your right) for easy menu ideas.

 

Spinach contains vitamins C, E, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B6 and folate – as well as minerals and phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein and betaine.

It has been reported that women who consumed 1 cup of raw or half-cooked spinach daily had improved bone density and a reduced risk of hip fracture.

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) affects at least 20 per cent of all 65-year-olds, and low macular pigment means a higher risk of AMD. The lutein and zeaxanthin carotenoids in spinach elevate macular pigment.

New Idea nutritionist Nikki Hart, recommends eating 1 cup of steamed spinach or 2 cups of raw spinach most days.