The leafy green vegetables always find a special place in a healthy diet plan. Due to their high nutrient quotient, leafy greens are considered one of the healthiest vegetables on the planet. But just because they are healthy does not mean you can have them three times daily because any food taken in excess may negatively impact your health and the same goes for a leafy green.
Spinach is one such leafy green which needs to be consumed carefully and in limited quantities to reap the benefits of this green vegetable without harming your health.
These green leaves are versatile and can be included in both raw and cooked forms. You can make smoothies, soup, add to omelette or pair with lentils and any other vegetables, they go well with all.
Here we will discuss the side effect of spinach to the body.
1. Increases the risk of forming kidney stones
Spinach is loaded with oxalates, compounds that form stones when consumed in excess. This puts you at a risk of forming kidney stones, as kidney stones are formed when there are high levels of oxalate in the urine.
2. Reduces the effect of blood thinners
Blood thinners are medicines that stop blood clots from forming or from getting larger. Spinach is loaded with vitamin K, a vitamin which plays a role in forming blood clots, therefore reducing the efficacy of blood thinners, allowing blood clots to thrive.
3. Interferes with mineral absorption
There is an abundance of oxalates in spinach, and apart from increasing the risk of kidney stones, they get it in the way of mineral absorption. Oxalate is an antinutrient, a compound that hinders mineral absorption. The oxalates in spinach is known to interfere with calcium and iron absorption.
4. Aggravates gout
Gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that forms in people with high levels of uric acid. Spinach contains purines, chemical compounds that increase uric acid levels and therefore increase the risk and symptoms of gout.
5. Can lower blood pressure
Although spinach is known for its blood pressure lowering effect, it is known to sometimes lower blood pressure to an extremely low level. This can lead to symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or chest pain.
Source: Fakazanews
In other news – QV exits #BBMzansi 2022
QV whose real name is Keamogetswe Motlhale has decided to quit being part of BBMzansi season 3 housemates, three days after she got into the house.
The news of her departure has left viewers in their feelings, and many applauded her for prioritizing her health. Learn more
