Spinach - Another of Nature's SuperFoods!

Spinach - a great source of fiber!

Spinach has been an important part of peoples diet for centuries. As far back as the Roman Empire people have enjoyed the benefits of eating spinach. Spinach, considered by many to be one of nature's true SuperFoods, helps brian function, bone growth and even offers cancer fighting properties! Save your money - enjoy a well balanced variety of healthy fruits and vegetables.

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene - both important antioxidants. Antioxidants reduce the amounts of free radicals and help prevent cholesterol build-up . Cholesterol sticks to blood vessel walls, where it can cause blocked arteries, heart attack or even a stroke. Getting plenty of vitamin C and beta-carotene helps ward off heart attacks and strokes.

Spinach is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese, folate, magnesium, iron, vitamin C, vitamin B2, calcium, potassium, and vitamin B6. It is a very good source of dietary fiber, copper, protein, phosphorus, zinc and vitamin E. Spinach is also a good source of heart-healthy omega-3 fats, niacin and selenium

Spinach is abundant practically year round and very inexpensive. Add some to your healthy eating choices and enjoy the many benefits spinach has to offer!

Here's an inexpensive and nutritious recipe for spinach patties:

1 pound ground turkey
2 bunches spinach - washed and cut into pieces (may substitute a 1-pound bag of frozen chopped spinach, thawed and well drained)
1 finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves - minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
black pepper to taste
3 cups brown or wild rice - cooked

So easy to prepare:

Preheat frying pan with a little extra virgin olive oil. ( Prevents sticking and makes cleanup a snap! )

Combine all ingredients except brown rice in a large mixing bowl. Mix well.

Form mixture into 12 small balls. Place in frying pan and flatten into patties using a spatula.

Cook over medium heat until cooked on both sides.

Serve over cooked brown or wild rice.

Make eating healthy foods a habit! Enjoy a wide variety of natural foods - including plenty of fruits and vegetables. Try to include more spinach in your daily diet.

If weight loss is one of your goals this year - eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Get plenty of exercise and you're on your way to natural, healthy weight loss! The quickest way to lose weight is making exercise and healthy eating part of your daily lifestyle. Once you get started you won't want to stop!