Interesting spinach facts

November 22, 2009 | In: Food facts

Spinach is native to central and southwestern Asia.

Spinach was the favorite vegetable of Catherine de Medici, a historical figure in the 16th century.

Spinach is considered to be a rich source of iron.Spinach also has a high calcium content.

Spinach is a rich source of vitamin A (and lutein), vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, magnesium, manganese, folate, iron, vitamin B2, calcium, potassium, vitamin B6, folic acid, copper, protein, phosphorus, zinc, niacin, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids.

Researchers have identified at least 13 different flavonoid compounds in spinach that function as antioxidants and as anti-cancer agents.

Spinach is low in Saturated Fat, and very low in Cholesterol.

California produces 74 percent of the fresh spinach grown in the United States.

There are three types of spinach available in U.S. supermarkets: savoy (curly leaf), flat
(smooth leaf) and semi-savoy (slightly curly leaves).