Spinach

Functional properties of spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) phytochemicals and bioactives.

Type of study:

Number of citations: 205

Year: 2016

Authors: Joseph L. Roberts, R. Moreau

Journal: Food & function

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach's phytochemicals and bioactives, such as glycolipids and thylakoids, contribute to its anti-cancer, anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties, making it a functional food with health benefits.

Abstract: Overwhelming evidence indicates that diets rich in fruits and vegetables are protective against common chronic diseases, such as cancer, obesity and cardiovascular disease. Leafy green vegetables, in particular, are recognized as having substantial health-promoting activities that are attributed to the functional properties of their nutrients and non-essential chemical compounds. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.) is widely regarded as a functional food due to its diverse nutritional composition, which includes vitamins and minerals, and to its phytochemicals and bioactives that promote health beyond basic nutrition. Spinach-derived phytochemicals and bioactives are able to (i) scavenge reactive oxygen species and prevent macromolecular oxidative damage, (ii) modulate expression and activity of genes involved in metabolism, proliferation, inflammation, and antioxidant defence, and (iii) curb food intake by inducing secretion of satiety hormones. These biological activities contribute to the anti-cancer, anti-obesity, hypoglycemic, and hypolipidemic properties of spinach. Despite these valuable attributes, spinach consumption remains low in comparison to other leafy green vegetables. This review examines the functional properties of spinach in cell culture, animals and humans with a focus on the molecular mechanisms by which spinach-derived non-essential phytochemicals and bioactives, such as glycolipids and thylakoids, impart their health benefits.

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea L.)

Type of study:

Number of citations: 1

Year: 2020

Authors: Breetha Ramaiyan, Jasmeet Kour, Gulzar Ahmad Nayik, Naveen Anand, Mohammed Shafiq Alam

Journal: Antioxidants in Vegetables and Nuts - Properties and Health Benefits

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Regular consumption of spinach, rich in micronutrients and phytochemicals, can protect against cancer, obesity, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia due to its antioxidant properties.

Abstract: Recent insights about food and nutrition signify that the consumption of fresh produce is defensive to general acute and chronic disorders. Dark green leafy vegetables are acknowledged to ameliorate these symptoms as they possess abundant nutrients and biological properties. Spinacia oleracea (spinach) is widely available and accepted traditional green, leafy vegetables in the world: it is an excellent choice for micronutrients and phytonutrients. Thus, the consumption of this vegetable is recommended on a regular dietary regimen. The phytochemicals and bioactives that are derived from spinach (raw and cooked) are capable of a) scavenging singlet oxygen species and inhibit oxidative stress, b) alter gene expressions that are associated with metabolic activities, tumors, acute and chronic inflammation, and antioxidant system, and c) diminish diet intake by altering hormones involved in obesity. These biological activities are associated with various metabolic disorders. Hence, regular consumption of spinach would provide a qualitative well-being against cancer, obesity, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia. This chapter provides insights about the functional and biological properties of spinach involved in different investigations. The mechanistic process of spinach and spinach-derived phytochemicals imparting health benefits is explored.

Discovery of urinary biomarkers of spinach consumption using untargeted LC-MS metabolomics in a human intervention trial.

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 4

Year: 2022

Authors: Muyao Xi, Giorgia La Barbera, J. Eriksen, A. P. Prahm, P. Jeppesen, L. Dragsted

Journal: Molecular nutrition & food research

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Three candidate biomarkers were identified in urine samples after spinach intake, which may help investigate its health effects and dietary habits.

Abstract: SCOPE Biomarkers for intake of green leafy vegetables such as spinach could help investigate their health effects. However, only few potential intake markers have been reported in the literature so far. METHODS AND RESULTS Based on a cross-over study on whole leaf and minced spinach, we investigated changes in metabolites before and after spinach intake and differences between the two treatments and health status. Nineteen volunteers (12 healthy subjects and 7 short bowel patients) completed the study within 48 d. Urine samples (24 hr intervals before and after spinach intake) and serum samples (baseline, post 8 d, and post 15 d) were collected and analyzed by UHPLC-QTOF-MS. The acquired data was analyzed by multivariate and univariate analyses. Three candidate biomarkers were observed in urine only after the spinach intake, including des-amino arginine pentenol ester, D/L-malic acid ester of cis-p-coumarate, D/L-malic acid ester of trans-p-coumarate, and 69 metabolites were present before spinach intake but showing an altered level after treatment. These metabolites were related to dietary habits or meal structure, and some changes were possibly affected by spinach intake. The candidate biomarkers were independent of spinach pre-processing and healthy status. No markers were discovered in serum samples. CONCLUSION We propose structures for three candidate spinach intake biomarkers; these markers will need further validation in independent studies. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

Spinach consumption and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease among adults: a case–control study

Type of study: non-rct observational study

Number of citations: 21

Year: 2021

Authors: Ebrahim Mokhtari, Hossein Farhadnejad, Ammar Salehi-Sahlabadi, N. Najibi, M. Azadi, Farshad Teymoori, P. Mirmiran

Journal: BMC Gastroenterology

Journal ranking: Q2

Key takeaways: Higher intake of total and raw spinach is associated with a reduced odds of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in adults.

Abstract: Background Spinach has high antioxidants and polyphenols and showed protective effects against liver diseases in experimental studies. We aimed to assess the association between dietary intake of spinach and odds of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in a case–control study among Iranian adults. Methods Totally 225 newly diagnosed NAFLD patients and 450 controls, aged 20–60 years, were recruited in this study. Participants’ dietary intakes were collected using a valid and reliable 168-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The logistic regression test was used for assessing the association between total, raw, and boiled dietary spinach with the odds of NAFLD. Results The mean (SD) age and BMI of participants (53% male) were 38.1 (8.8) years and 26.8 (4.3) kg/m 2 , respectively. In the final adjusted model for potential confounders, the odds (95% CI) of NAFLD in individuals in the highest tertile of daily total and raw spinach intake was [0.36 (0.19–0.71), P_trend = 0.001] and [0.47 (0.24–0.89), P_trend = 0.008], respectively compared with those in the lowest tertile. Furthermore, in the adjusted analyses, an inverse association was observed between the highest yearly intake versus no raw spinach consumption and odds of NAFLD [(OR 0.41; 95% CI 0.18–0.96), P for trend = 0.013]. However, there was no significant association between higher boiled spinach intake and odds of NAFLD. Conclusions The present study found an inverse association between total and raw spinach intake with the odds of NAFLD.

Estimated Long-Term Dietary Exposure to Cadmium from Consumption of Spinach in the United States: A Probabilistic Assessment.

Type of study: non-rct observational study

Number of citations: 1

Year: 2025

Authors: Scrafford Cg, Davis Bjk, Higgins Ka, Moynihan E, Morris-Schaffer K, Rackl Sm, Hearon S, Davis D

Journal: Food and chemical toxicology : an international journal published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Long-term dietary exposure to cadmium from spinach consumption in the U.S. is below the FDA toxicological reference value range, with mean exposure levels ranging from 0.006 to 0.026 g/kg bw/day for the general population and young children.

Assessment of Health Risk Due to Consumption of Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) Cultivated with Heavy Metal Polluted Water of Bhabadah Water-Logged Area of Bangladesh

Type of study:

Number of citations: 5

Year: 2022

Authors: K. Mohiuddin, Popy Saha, Md. Taslim Hossain, K. Nahar, I. Ahmed, A. B. M. Zahidul Hoque, Razia Sultana, M. A. Rahman

Journal: Earth Systems and Environment

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Long-term intake of contaminated spinach in the Bhabadah region of Bangladesh increases the risk of cancer by more than two persons per thousand.

Abstract: Spinach is a commonly grown tropical vegetable having high metal-accumulating capacity, which might cause human health problems. This study aimed to assess heavy metal contamination in surface water and spinach samples collected from the water-logged area of Bhabadah in the Khulna division of Bangladesh. A total of 24 locations were selected. Chemical analyses were performed using appropriate methodologies. The levels of Cd in water samples were 0.0092 ± 0.004 mg L−1 which was above the allowable drinking limit and did not meet public health standards. The average level of Pb was within acceptable limits. In spinach samples, the average levels of Zn, Pb, Cd, and Cu were 96.63 ± 34.53, 12.72 ± 13.33, 0.43 ± 0.30, 21.43 ± 5.93 μg g−1, respectively. The level of Pb and Cd exceeded the prescribed limit for the vegetables in more than 70% of the total spinach samples. The Cr content was below the detectable threshold. The daily metal intake for both males and females was more than the tolerable intake limit for Pb and Cd, whereas, cumulative incremental lifetime cancer risk for males and females are 2.02E − 03 and 2.27E − 03, respectively. This implies that more than two persons per thousand are at risk of cancer as a result of long-term intake of contaminated spinach in the Bhabadah region. According to this study, water and spinach contribute to the contamination of food chains and increase the risk of cancer caused by the presence of heavy metals. This heightened risk requires prompt action to alleviate this situation and increase overall public awareness of food safety.

Antioxidant and antiproliferative activities of common vegetables.

Type of study: non-rct in vitro

Number of citations: 970

Year: 2002

Authors: Y. Chu, Jie Sun, Xianzhong Wu, R. Liu

Journal: Journal of agricultural and food chemistry

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Broccoli, spinach, yellow onion, red pepper, carrot, cabbage, potato, lettuce, celery, and cucumber are the most phenolic-rich common vegetables, with red pepper having the highest antioxidant activity and spinach showing the highest antiproliferative effect.

Abstract: Epidemiological studies have shown that consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with reduced risk of chronic diseases. Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables containing high levels of phytochemicals has been recommended to prevent chronic diseases related to oxidative stress in the human body. In this study, 10 common vegetables were selected on the basis of consumption per capita data in the United States. A more complete profile of phenolic distributions, including both free and bound phenolics in these vegetables, is reported here using new and modified methods. Broccoli possessed the highest total phenolic content, followed by spinach, yellow onion, red pepper, carrot, cabbage, potato, lettuce, celery, and cucumber. Red pepper had the highest total antioxidant activity, followed by broccoli, carrot, spinach, cabbage, yellow onion, celery, potato, lettuce, and cucumber. The phenolics antioxidant index (PAI) was proposed to evaluate the quality/quantity of phenolic contents in these vegetables and was calculated from the corrected total antioxidant activities by eliminating vitamin C contributions. Antiproliferative activities were also studied in vitro using HepG(2) human liver cancer cells. Spinach showed the highest inhibitory effect, followed by cabbage, red pepper, onion, and broccoli. On the basis of these results, the bioactivity index (BI) for dietary cancer prevention is proposed to provide a simple reference for consumers to choose vegetables in accordance with their beneficial activities. The BI could be a new alternative biomarker for future epidemiological studies in dietary cancer prevention and health promotion.

Abstract 5815: Metabolomics in an Apc-mutant genetic background: Mechanistic insights from acute vs. chronic spinach intake

Type of study:

Number of citations: 0

Year: 2022

Authors: Sultan Abda Neja, R. Dashwood

Journal: Cancer Research

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Long-term dietary spinach intake may enhance anticancer outcomes by promoting gut microbiome diversity and promoting apoptosis in colorectal cancer cells.

Abstract: There is growing interest in the crosstalk between the gut microbiome, metabolomic features, and disease pathogenesis. Colorectal cancer is a major health burden worldwide, linked in part to modifiable risk factors associated with diet and lifestyle (1). The current investigation compared long-term (26 week) and acute (3 day) dietary spinach intake in a genetic model of colorectal cancer. Metabolomic analyses in the polyposis in rat colon (Pirc) model and in wildtype animals corroborated key contributions to anticancer outcomes by spinach-derived linoleate bioactives and a butanoate metabolite linked to increased α-diversity of the gut microbiome (2). Combining linoleate and butanoate metabolites in human colon cancer cells revealed enhanced apoptosis and reduced cell viability, paralleling the apoptosis induction observed in colon tumors from rats given long-term spinach treatment. Mechanistic studies indicated reactivation of immune-associated major histocompatibility complex genes in cell-based assays and in vivo, plus differential roles of the metabolites in targeting Wnt/β-catenin signaling (3). Clinical translation of the findings from this investigation to at-risk patients might provide valuable quality-of-life benefits by delaying surgical interventions and drug therapies with adverse side effects (4,5). References1.Xi, Y., Xu, P. Global colorectal cancer burden in 2020 and projections to 2040. Transl Oncol 2021;14: 1011741.Chen, Y.-S. et al. Dietary spinach reshapes the gut microbiome in an Apc-mutant genetic background: mechanistic insights from integrated multi-omics. Gut Microbes 2021;13:1972756. 1.Liu, F. et al. Suppression of membranous LPR5 recycling, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and colon carcinogenesis by 15-LOX-1 peroxidation of linoleic acid in PI3P. Cell Rep 2020;32:108049.1.Ulusan, A.M. et al. Optimization of erlotinib plus sulindac dosing regimens for intestinal cancer prevention in an Apc-mutant model of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2021;14:325-336.1.Samadder, N.J. et al. Association of sulindac and erlotinib vs placebo with colorectal neoplasia in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Oncol 2018:4:671-677. Citation Format: Sultan Neja, Roderick H. Dashwood. Metabolomics in an Apc-mutant genetic background: Mechanistic insights from acute vs. chronic spinach intake [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2022; 2022 Apr 8-13. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2022;82(12_Suppl):Abstract nr 5815.

Dietary spinach reshapes the gut microbiome in an Apc-mutant genetic background: mechanistic insights from integrated multi-omics

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 17

Year: 2021

Authors: Ying-Shiuan Chen, Jia Li, R. Menon, A. Jayaraman, Kyongbum Lee, Yun Huang, W. Dashwood, Kecheng Zhang, Deqiang Sun, R. Dashwood

Journal: Gut Microbes

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach consumption significantly reduces colon cancer risk by reshaping the gut microbiome and altering metabolism, potentially benefiting cancer prevention and immune evasion.

Abstract: ABSTRACT Complex interrelationships govern the dynamic interactions between gut microbes, the host, and exogenous drivers of disease outcome. A multi-omics approach to cancer prevention by spinach (SPI) was pursued for the first time in the polyposis in rat colon (Pirc) model. SPI fed for 26 weeks (10% w/w, freeze-dried in the diet) exhibited significant antitumor efficacy and, in the Apc-mutant genetic background, β-catenin remained highly overexpressed in adenomatous polyps. However, in both wild type and Apc-mutant rats, increased gut microbiome diversity after SPI consumption coincided with reversal of taxonomic composition. Metagenomic prediction implicated linoleate and butanoate metabolism, tricarboxylic acid cycle, and pathways in cancer, which was supported by transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses. Thus, tumor suppression by SPI involved marked reshaping of the gut microbiome along with changes in host RNA-miRNA networks. When colon polyps were compared with matched normal-looking tissues via metabolomics, anticancer outcomes were linked to SPI-derived linoleate bioactives with known anti-inflammatory/ proapoptotic mechanisms, as well as N-aceto-2-hydroxybutanoate, consistent with altered butanoate metabolism stemming from increased α-diversity of the gut microbiome. In colon tumors from SPI-fed rats, L-glutamate and N-acetylneuraminate also were reduced, implicating altered mitochondrial energetics and cell surface glycans involved in oncogenic signaling networks and immune evasion. In conclusion, a multi-omics approach to cancer prevention by SPI provided mechanistic support for linoleate and butanoate metabolism, as well as tumor-associated changes in L-glutamate and N-acetylneuraminate. Additional factors, such as the fiber content, also warrant further investigation with a view to delaying colectomy and drug intervention in at-risk patients.

Vitamin B12 Enriched in Spinach and its Effects on Gut Microbiota.

Type of study: non-rct in vitro

Number of citations: 12

Year: 2021

Authors: Yiqing Zheng, Shasha Xiang, Hongxing Zhang, Kun T. Ye, Yalin Zhang, Yin Ge, Xiao Feng, Xuan Bao, Jie Chen, Xuan Zhu

Journal: Journal of agricultural and food chemistry

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Enriching spinach with cyanocobalamin effectively provides daily vitamin B12 intake for vegans and has beneficial effects on gut microbiota and short-chain fatty acids.

Abstract: Meat and fermented foods are the main source of vitamin B12 (cobalamin) for human beings. Therefore, daily cobalamin intake is a big problem for vegans. In this study, cyanocobalamin (CNCBL) was added to the culture broth for cobalamin enrichment in spinach. After 36 h of cultivation, the accumulated CNCBL in the spinach leaves (wet weight) was as high as 0.48% (concentration), and the leaves still contained 0.94 ± 0.11 μg/g CNCBL after boiling, which could provide consumer daily requirement of CNCBL. Because CNCBL supplementation had adverse effects on gut microbiota, this study focused on the effect of the combination of spinach and CNCBL on gut microbiota as well. After the boiled leaves were passed through an in vitro gastrointestinal tract simulation system, it was found that the spinach protected CNCBL against the low-pH gastric acid. Moreover, compared with the CNCBL supplement group, the relative abundances of Bacteroides and Firmicutes increased, and the relative abundance of Proteobacteria, especially Escherichia spp., reduced. Analysis of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) showed that cobalamin-rich spinach was positively correlated with Bacteroides, propionate, and butyrate. The results showed that the method of enriching spinach with CNCBL was effective and had beneficial effects on gut microbiota and SCFAs.

Uptake of vegetable and soft drink affected transformation and bioaccessibility of lead in gastrointestinal track exposed to lead-contaminated soil particles.

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 11

Year: 2020

Authors: Jin Fan, Ling Zhao, Junhong Kan, H. Qiu, Xiaoyun Xu, Xinde Cao

Journal: Ecotoxicology and environmental safety

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Ingestion of spinach and cola significantly reduces lead bioaccessibility in the gastrointestinal tract, impacting human health risk assessments of lead-contaminated soil.

Effects of spinach nitrate on insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction markers and inflammation in mice with high-fat and high-fructose consumption

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 46

Year: 2016

Authors: Ting Li, Xinshan Lu, Yanfei Sun, Xingbin Yang

Journal: Food & Nutrition Research

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach nitrate can improve insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, and endothelial function in mice on a high-fat and high-fructose diet, suggesting it as a promising dietary supplement for insulin resistance prevention.

Abstract: Background Insulin resistance, which is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, has become a leading nutrition problem. Inorganic nitrate enriched in spinach has been demonstrated to reverse the pathological features of insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction. However, the effects of a direct intake of nitrate-enriched spinach on insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction have not been studied. Objective To investigate the effects of spinach nitrate on insulin resistance, lipid metabolism, endothelial function, and inflammation in mice fed with a high-fat and high-fructose diet. Design A diet intervention of spinach with or without nitrate was performed in mice. A high-fat and high-fructose diet was used to cause insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, and inflammation in mice. The impacts of spinach nitrate on lipid profile, insulin resistance, markers of endothelial function, and inflammation were determined in mice. Results Spinach nitrate improved the vascular endothelial function of the mice with high-fat and high-fructose consumption, as evidenced by the elevated plasma nitrite level, increased serum nitric oxide (NO) level and decreased serum ET-1 level after spinach nitrate intervention. Spinach nitrate also reduced serum triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels and elevated serum high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels in the mice fed with a high-fat and high-fructose diet. Mice receiving spinach with 60 mg/kg of nitrate (1.02±0.34) showed a significantly low homeostasis model assessment-insulin resistance index as compared with the model mice (2.05±0.58), which is indicating that spinach nitrate could effectively improve the insulin resistance. In addition, spinach nitrate remarkably decreased the elevated serum C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor α, and interleukin-6 levels induced by a high-fat and high-fructose diet. Conclusions The intake of spinach nitrate can augment NO status, improve lipid homeostasis, relieve inflammation, and enhance endothelial function, suggesting that spinach is promising dietary supplements for insulin resistance prevention.

Effect of harvest time on the levels of phytochemicals, free radical-scavenging activity, α-amylase inhibition and bile acid-binding capacity of spinach (Spinacia oleracea).

Type of study:

Number of citations: 23

Year: 2018

Authors: Noorani Barkat, Jashbir Singh, G. Jayaprakasha, B. Patil

Journal: Journal of the science of food and agriculture

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Harvest time significantly affects phytochemical levels and health benefits in spinach, suggesting both baby and mature spinach consumption provides maximum health benefits.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Spinach is a green leafy vegetable that is rich in health-promoting compounds. The present study analyzed the levels of phytochemicals and health-promoting properties of spinach harvested at 20, 30, 40, 50 and 60 days after planting. RESULTS The time of harvest had a significant effect on nitrate levels, which increased from 1909 ± 70.6 µg g-1 (20 days) to 3668 ± 101.3 µg g-1 (40 days) and then decreased to 974 ± 164 µg g-1 (60 days). Lutein and chlorophylls a and b were found to be maximum at 60 days, whereas β-carotene was higher at 50 days. Liquid chromatography/high-resolution quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (LC/HR-QTOF-MS) was used to identify 12 flavonoids, and their tentative fragmentation pathways have been proposed. Spinach harvested at 30 and 60 days exhibited significantly higher 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2'-azino-bis(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS) free radical-scavenging activities and inhibition of amylase. The levels of total phenolics ranged from 885 ± 35.1 to 1162 ± 112.4 µg g-1 in the samples. In vitro bile acid-binding capacity showed that glycochenodeoxycholate and glycodeoxycholate were bound to maximum levels in all spinach samples. CONCLUSION The harvest time has a major effect on the levels of phytochemicals and health-beneficial properties, which indicates that consumption of both baby and mature spinach will provide maximum health benefits. © 2017 Society of Chemical Industry.

Impact of spinach consumption on DNA stability in peripheral lymphocytes and on biochemical blood parameters: results of a human intervention trial

Type of study:

Number of citations: 22

Year: 2011

Authors: B. Moser, T. Szekeres, C. Bieglmayer, K. Wagner, M. Mišík, M. Kundi, Oliwia Zakerska, A. Nersesyan, Nina Kager, J. Zahrl, C. Hoelzl, V. Ehrlich, S. Knasmueller

Journal: European Journal of Nutrition

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Moderate spinach consumption protects against oxidative DNA damage and alters health-related biochemical parameters, such as folate and homocysteine levels.

Abstract: IntroductionA controlled intervention trial was conducted to assess the impact of spinach consumption on DNA stability in lymphocytes and on health-related biochemical parameters.MethodsThe participants (n = 8) consumed homogenised spinach (225 g/day/person) over a period of 16 days. DNA migration was monitored in single cell gel electrophoresis—comet assays under standard conditions, which reflect single- and double-strand breaks, after treatment of nuclei with lesion-specific enzymes (formamidopyrimidine glycosylase, FPG and endonuclease III, ENDO III) and after treatment of intact cells with H2O2 before, during and after intervention.ResultsWhile no reduction in DNA damage was observed under standard conditions after different time intervals of spinach intake, other endpoints, namely ROS sensitivity and DNA migration attributable to the formation of oxidatively damaged DNA bases (i.e. pyrimidines-ENDO III-sensitive sites and purines-FPG sensitive sites) were reduced 6 h after consumption of the first portion and after 11 days of continuous consumption. In the case of ENDO III-sensitive sites, also after 16 days, a decrease in comet formation was observed. At the end of a 40 days washout period, the DNA stability parameters were not significantly different from the background values. Other biochemical parameters which were significantly altered by spinach intake were the folate (+27%) and homocysteine (−16%) concentrations in blood, and it was found in an earlier human study that folate may prevent oxidative damage to DNA bases.ConclusionsTaken together, our results show that moderate consumption of spinach causes protection against oxidative DNA damage in humans and that this phenomenon is paralleled by alterations of health-related biochemical parameters.

Spinach consumption ameliorates the gut microbiota and dislipaemia in rats with diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Type of study:

Number of citations: 25

Year: 2019

Authors: Laura Inés Elvira Torales, M. Periago, R. González-Barrio, N. Hidalgo, I. Navarro-González, C. Gómez-Gallego, D. Masuero, E. Soini, U. Vrhovšek, Javier Garcia

Journal: Food & function

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach consumption can partially improve gut microbiota and reduce blood lipids and glucose in rats with diet-induced non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

Abstract: Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is defined as the accumulation of fat in liver cells, which causes serious health consequences. Animal and human studies suggest that the gut microbiota plays a role in the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Here, we investigated whether spinach consumption could ameliorate high-fat-diet-induced disturbances in certain intestinal bacterial groups and products derived from their metabolism, such as short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) and microbial phenolic catabolites. Attention is also paid to blood lipids and glucose. In the study, a rat model of high-fat-diet-induced NAFLD was used. There were six experimental groups: NC (normal diet), NB (normal diet + 2.5% spinach), NA (normal diet + 5% spinach), HC (high-fat diet), HB (high-fat diet + 2.5% spinach) and HA (high-fat diet + 5% spinach). The rats consumed these diets for five weeks, and after that, they were sacrificed and plasma, urine, intestinal content, faeces and liver samples were taken. Biochemical parameters were analyzed in plasma, phenolic catabolites were quantified in the faeces, urine, plasma and liver by UPLC-ESI-MS/MS, and the analysis of the microbiota and SCFAs in the intestinal content was performed by qPCR and GLC. Consumption of a high-fat diet caused NAFLD and dislipaemia and altered the gut microbiota and the pattern of SCFAs and phenolic gut microbial catabolites. Supplementation with spinach partially ameliorated some alterations induced by the high-fat diet, in particular by increasing the Lactobacillus counts, reducing the fasting glucose and total and LDL-cholesterol and preventing excess liver cholesterol accumulation, thereby improving the values of the steatosis biomarkers.

Nutritional and Bioactive Constituents of Antioxidant and Antimicrobial Properties in Spinacia oleracea: A Review

Type of study: literature review

Number of citations: 9

Year: 2023

Authors: Nur Huda- Faujan, S. I. Zubairi, Auni Afiqah Ahmad Baker

Journal: Sains Malaysiana

Journal ranking: Q2

Key takeaways: Spinach extract, rich in polyphenols, has effective antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, offering potential for various food applications.

Abstract: In recent years, overwhelming studies have recognized the excellent functional and nutritional properties of green leafy vegetables that can be gained through a proper human diet. Among the vegetables studied, Spinacia oleraceaLinn. or commonly known as spinach is widely being acknowledged for having a diverse range of nutritional composition and bioactive phytochemical compounds. Spinach, which is grouped under the Amaranthaceae family, contains various beneficial effects owing to their nutritional compositions, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, fibre, minerals, vitamins, and bioactive constituents that are directly linked to various bio-functional properties. The valuable bio-constituent of polyphenols that exist in spinach contributes to its effective antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Therefore, the antioxidant from spinach extract is a promising source of natural antioxidants to replace the harmful effect of synthetic antioxidants. Moreover, it can inhibit cellular oxidative damage, increase storage stability, and restrict the growth of a wide range of pathogenic bacteria, which offers a huge prospect for potential food application. Therefore, the main attention of this review was to highlight the effective antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of phytochemical compounds in spinach extract. Additionally, this review provided a comprehensive description of the wide range of food applications with regards to the use of spinach extract.

Abstract A013: Metabolomics of acute vs. chronic spinach intake in an Apc-mutant genetic background: linoleate and butanoate metabolites targeting HDAC activity and IFN-γ signaling

Type of study:

Number of citations: 1

Year: 2022

Authors: Ying-Shiuan Chen, Jia Li, Sultan Abda Neja, Sabeeta Kapoor, J. E. Tovar Perez, Chakrapani Tripathi, R. Menon, A. Jayaraman, Kyongbum Lee, W. Dashwood, Shan Wang, Kecheng Zhang, Koichi S. Kobayashi, P. Rajendran, R. Dashwood

Journal: Cancer Prevention Research

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Long-term dietary spinach intake may improve colorectal cancer outcomes by targeting HDAC activity and IFN- signaling, potentially reducing the need for costly surgical interventions and drug therapies.

Abstract: There is growing interest in the crosstalk between the gut microbiome, metabolomic features, and disease pathogenesis. Colorectal cancer is a major health burden worldwide, linked in part to modifiable risk factors associated with diet and lifestyle (1). The differential roles of the metabolites in targeting Wnt/b-catenin signaling were recently reported (2). The current investigation compared long-term (26 week) and acute (3 day) dietary spinach intake in a genetic model of colorectal cancer. Metabolomic analyses in the polyposis in rat colon (Pirc) model and in wildtype animals corroborated key contributions to anticancer outcomes by spinach-derived linoleate bioactives and a butanoate metabolite linked to increased a-diversity of the gut microbiome (3). Combining linoleate and butanoate metabolites in human colon cancer cells revealed enhanced apoptosis and reduced cell viability, paralleling the apoptosis induction observed in colon tumors from rats given long-term spinach treatment. Mechanistic studies in cell-based assays and in vivo implicated the linoleate and butanoate metabolites in targeting histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity and the interferon-g (IFN-g) signaling axis. Clinical translation of the findings from this investigation to at-risk patients might provide valuable quality-of-life benefits by delaying surgical interventions and drug therapies with adverse side effects (4,5). References 1. Xi, Y., Xu, P. Global colorectal cancer burden in 2020 and projections to 2040. Transl Oncol 2021;14: 101174 2. Liu, F. et al. Suppression of membranous LPR5 recycling, Wnt/β-catenin signaling, and colon carcinogenesis by 15-LOX-1 peroxidation of linoleic acid in PI3P. Cell Rep 2020;32:108049. 3. Chen, Y.-S. et al. Dietary spinach reshapes the gut microbiome in an Apc-mutant genetic background: mechanistic insights from integrated multi-omics. Gut Microbes 2021;13:1972756. 4. Ulusan, A.M. et al. Optimization of erlotinib plus sulindac dosing regimens for intestinal cancer prevention in an Apc-mutant model of Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Cancer Prev Res (Phila) 2021;14:325-336. 5. Samadder, N.J. et al. Association of sulindac and erlotinib vs placebo with colorectal neoplasia in Familial Adenomatous Polyposis: secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial. JAMA Oncol 2018:4:671-677. Citation Format: Ying-Shiuan Chen, Jia Li, Sultan Neja, Rani Menon, Arul Jayaraman, Kyongbum Lee, Wan Mohaiza Dashwood, Shan Wang, Sabeeta Kapoor, Praveen Rajendran, Ke Zhang, Roderick Dashwood. Metabolomics of acute vs. chronic spinach intake in an Apc-mutant genetic background: linoleate and butanoate metabolites targeting HDAC activity and IFN-γ signaling [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the Second Biennial NCI Meeting: Translational Advances in Cancer Prevention Agent Development (TACPAD); 2022 Sep 7-9. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Can Prev Res 2022;15(12 Suppl_2): Abstract nr A013.

Spinacia Oleracea: Exploring the Therapeutic Potential in Persian Medicine and Modern Pharmacology.

Type of study: systematic review

Number of citations: 1

Year: 2024

Authors: Fatemeh Akbari, Melika Mollaei, Pendar Argani, B. Daneshfard, Ali Reza Derakhshan

Journal: Current drug discovery technologies

Journal ranking: Q3

Key takeaways: Spinach, a widely cultivated dark leafy vegetable, exhibits a wide range of beneficial effects on various health conditions, with potential for further investigation in various diseases.

Abstract: BACKGROUND Spinach is a widely cultivated dark leafy vegetable highly regarded for its medicinal properties in traditional Persian medicine. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds, and this review aims to explore the historical applications of spinach in Persian medicine and juxtapose them with current scientific evidence. Despite its historical significance, there remains a need to comprehensively evaluate and integrate traditional knowledge with modern research on the therapeutic benefits of spinach. METHODS To achieve this, a comprehensive search was conducted in Persian medicine references and scientific databases to gather information on the traditional uses, chemical composition, and pharmacological effects of spinach. Studies that met the inclusion criteria were meticulously categorized, and relevant data were analyzed to draw insightful comparisons. RESULTS Persian medicine describes spinach as a nutrient-rich, laxative, and fast-digesting agent with therapeutic effects on inflammation, lung diseases, back pain, sore throats, jaundice, urinary disorders, joint pain, eye inflammation, insomnia, dementia, and more. Modern studies have substantially corroborated these traditional uses, revealing that spinach possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, blood sugar-lowering, lipid-lowering, anti-obesity, neurological, ocular, and musculoskeletal effects. CONCLUSION Spinach exhibits a wide range of beneficial effects on various health conditions. Its widespread availability, low cost, and exceptional nutritional richness position it as a promising candidate for further investigation. Future studies should explore the clinical effectiveness of spinach in various diseases, while taking into consideration the principles emphasized in Persian medicine to guide research and inform therapeutic strategies.

Green Leafy Vegetables

Type of study:

Number of citations: 33

Year: 2018

Authors: Gurbuz Gunes, Esra Doğu-Baykut

Journal:

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Spinach and lettuce are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, and their consumption may help reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration and improve blood sugar control for diabetes patients.

Abstract: This chapter reviews nutritional composition, harvesting, storage, packing, processing of spinach and lettuce. Spinach is a rich source of calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, and zinc. Flavonoids found in spinach act as antioxidants that may provide protection against oxidative stress. Spinach consumption is associated with decreased risk of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). Spinach is consumed as fresh or processed into different forms, including frozen, canned, or dried. Lettuce is the most popular salad vegetable and is usually eaten raw. Lettuce contains bioactive compounds, including vitamins, carotenoids, flavonoids, and phenolic acids that can improve nutritional status and benefit health. Lettuce is a good source of dietary fiber. A high fiber diet may reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases by decreasing low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and blood pressure. Consuming lettuce may play a role in blood sugar control for people with diabetes.

Spinach and tomato consumption increases lymphocyte DNA resistance to oxidative stress but this is not related to cell carotenoid concentrations

Type of study:

Number of citations: 71

Year: 2002

Authors: M. Porrini, P. Riso, G. Oriani

Journal: European Journal of Nutrition

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach and tomato consumption increases lymphocyte DNA resistance to oxidative stress, but this protective role is not specifically related to carotenoids, but may involve other substances in vegetables.

Abstract: SummaryBackground The increased consumption of fruit and vegetables has been linked to protection against different chronic diseases, but the dietary constituents responsible for this association have not been clearly identified. Aim of the study We evaluated the effect of spinach and spinach+tomato puree consumption on cell DNA resistance to an oxidative stress. Methods To this aim, in a dietary controlled intervention study, 9 healthy female volunteers consumed a basal diet low in carotenoids (< 600 μg/day) enriched with daily portions (150 g) of spinach (providing about 9 mg lutein, 0.6 mg zeaxanthin, 4 mg β-carotene) for 3 weeks (from day 0 to day 21) followed by a 2 week wash-out period (basal diet) and finally another 3 weeks (from day 35 to day 56) of diet enriched with daily portions of spinach (150 g) + tomato puree (25 g, providing about 7 mg lycopene, 0.3 mg β-carotene). At the beginning and the end of each period of vegetable intake, blood samples were collected for lymphocyte separation. Carotenoid concentrations of lymphocytes were determined by HPLC and DNA damage was evaluated by the comet assay following an ex vivo treatment with H2O2. Results During the first period of spinach consumption, lymphocyte lutein concentration did not increase significantly (from 1.6 to 2.2 μmol/1012 cells) while lycopene and β-carotene concentrations decreased significantly (from 1.0 to 0.1 μmol/1012 cells, P < 0.001, and from 2.2 to 1.2 μmol/1012 cells, P < 0.05, respectively). Lutein and lycopene concentrations increased after spinach+tomato puree consumption (from 1.2 to 3.5 μmol/1012 cells, P < 0.01, and from 0.1 to 0.7 μmol/1012 cells, P < 0.05, respectively). The increase may be attributed to the addition of tomato puree to spinach; however, the different concentrations of carotenoids in lymphocytes registered at the beginning of the two intervention periods may have affected the results. DNA resistance to H2O2 insult increased significantly after both the enriched diets (P < 0.01); however, no “additive effect” was seen after spinach + tomato puree consumption. In the spinach + tomato intervention period an inverse correlation was observed between lymphocyte lycopene concentration and DNA damage, but this seems not able to explain the protection observed. Conclusions The consumption of carotenoid-rich foods even for a short period of time gives protection against oxidative stress. The results obtained seem to suggest that this protective role is not specifically related to carotenoids. However they may contribute together with other substances present in vegetables to lymphocyte resistance to oxidative damage.

Nutritional profile of spinach and its antioxidant & antidiabetic evaluation

Type of study: non-rct in vitro

Number of citations: 25

Year: 2017

Authors: Manish Vyas

Journal: International Journal of Green Pharmacy

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Spinach has good nutritional value and shows potential antioxidant and antidiabetic effects, making it a valuable nutraceutical for health promotion.

Abstract: Background: A proper diet is the best source of complete nutrition which provides strength, complexion, and vitality. Nutraceuticals and dietary supplement are the functional food that promotes the health and manage the disease. Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a leafy vegetable and considered a good source of nutrients. Objective: The objective of the study is to determine the nutritional value and evaluate in vitro antioxidant as well as antidiabetic potential of spinach. Materials and Methods: The methanolic extract of spinach was prepared using Soxhlet extraction technique which was subjected for physicochemical, nutritional value determination along with the OH - scavenging, 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and α-amylase inhibition activity. Result and Discussion: The results suggested the good nutritional values such as total crude fiber 4.55 ± 0.244% w/w, proteins 0.052 ± 0.0068% w/w, oils and fats 0.72 ± 0.036% w/w, carbohydrate 61.95 ± 0.382% w/w, Vitamins A 26.85 ± 0.154 μg, and Vitamins C 19.66 ± 0.21 μg. Further, methanolic extract of spinach showed the antioxidant activity and antidiabetic effect with an inhibitory concentration of 3.03 μg/mL, 6.03 μg/mL and 3.046 μg/mL for OH- scavenging, DPPH inhibition and α-amylase inhibition, respectively. Conclusion: Results revealed the potential nutraceutical values of spinach which can further explored to effectively use it by preparing suitable formulation.

Beneficial effects of a chlorophyll-rich spinach extract supplementation on prevention of obesity and modulation of gut microbiota in high-fat diet-fed mice

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 51

Year: 2019

Authors: Yuan-yuan Li, Yuanchen Cui, Feng Lu, Xiao Wang, X. Liao, Xiaosong Hu, Yan Zhang

Journal: Journal of Functional Foods

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Chlorophyll-rich spinach extract supplementation effectively prevents obesity and improves glucose tolerance in high-fat diet-fed mice, partially due to structural modulation of gut microbiota.

Ameliorative Effect of Spinach on Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Induced in Rats by a High-Fat Diet

Type of study: non-rct experimental

Number of citations: 21

Year: 2019

Authors: L. I. Elvira-Torales, G. Martín-Pozuelo, R. González-Barrio, I. Navarro-González, F. Pallarés, M. Santaella, J. García-Alonso, Ángel Sevilla, María Jesús Periago-Castón

Journal: International Journal of Molecular Sciences

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Spinach consumption can improve liver lipid metabolism in rats with high-fat diet-induced fatty liver disease, potentially aiding in dietary treatment of steatosis.

Abstract: The purpose of this work was to evaluate the effect of dietary carotenoids from spinach on the inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers, liver lipid profile, and liver transcriptomic and metabolomics profiles in Sprague–Dawley rats with steatosis induced by a high-fat diet. Two concentrations of spinach powder (2.5 and 5%) were used in two types of diet: high-fat (H) and standard (N). Although rats fed diet H showed an accumulation of fat in hepatocytes, they did not show differences in the values of adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and oxygen radical absorption (ORAC) in plasma or of isoprostanes in urine compared with animals fed diet N. The consumption of spinach and the accumulation of α and β carotenes and lutein in the liver was inversely correlated with serum total cholesterol and glucose and the content of hepatic cholesterol, increasing monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFA), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and reducing cholesterol in the livers of rats fed diet H and spinach. In addition, changes in the expression of genes related to the fatty liver condition occurred, and the expression of genes involved in the metabolism of fatty acids and cholesterol increased, mainly through the overexpression of peroxisome proliferator activated receptors (PPARs). Related to liver metabolites, animals fed with diet H showed hypoaminoacidemia, mainly for the glucogenic aminoacids. Although no changes were observed in inflammation and oxidative stress biomarkers, the consumption of spinach modulated the lipid metabolism in liver, which must be taken into consideration during the dietary treatment of steatosis.

Nutritional, safety and sensory quality evaluation of unleavened flatbread supplemented with thermal and non-thermal processed spinach powder

Type of study:

Number of citations: 7

Year: 2024

Authors: Muhammad Waseem, Saeed Akhtar, Tahir Mehmood, M. Qamar, Wisha Saeed, Muhammad Younis, Saima Perveen, T. Ismail, T. Esatbeyoglu

Journal: Journal of Agriculture and Food Research

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Microwave heat processing significantly reduces antinutrients and pesticide residues in spinach, making it a safer and healthier option for consumption.

The Effect of one-week spinach and NBS superfood supplementation on interleukin-6, superoxide dismutase, and malondialdehyde levels after repeated bouts of wingate test in trained men

Type of study:

Number of citations: 1

Year: 2025

Authors: Mohammad Mehdi Shirinbayan, Mohammad Azizi, Ehsan Amiri

Journal: Nutrition & Metabolism

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: One week of raw spinach or NBS superfood supplementation can positively affect inflammatory responses to repeated anaerobic activities, making them potential ergogenic aids for athletes.

Abstract: Background Consuming nutritional supplements for improving athletic performance has always been considered an ergogenic aid. However, there is limited information on the efficacy of this strategy for enhancing antioxidant capacity in response to strenuous exercise with repeated nature. Therefore, this study investigated the effect of one week of spinach and NBS superfood supplementation on superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-6 in response to repeated bouts of Wingate test. Methods Fifteen trained men voluntarily participated in this within- participants and counter-balanced study. Participants were exposed to three different conditions including (1) seven days of raw spinach supplementation (daily dose of 70 g); (2) seven days of NBS superfood supplementation (daily dose of 10 g); and (3) the control condition. One day after the supplementation period, participants came to the lab and performed 3 bouts of 30-second Wingate test with 4-minute rest intervals. Before the supplementation and 24 h after performing the Wingate, test blood samples were taken in each condition to measure serum levels of superoxide dismutase, malondialdehyde, and interleukin-6. One week of wash-out was applied between the conditions. Two-way repeated measures ANOVA were used for statistical analysis. Results The results showed that at post-test measurement the serum level of interleukin-6 was significantly lower under the spinach and superfood conditions (p = 0.001,p = 0.003, respectively) compared to the control. The serum level of superoxide dismutase under the spinach (p = 0.035) and superfood (p = 0.01) conditions was significantly higher compared to the control at post-test measurement. Also, at post-test measurement, the serum level of malondialdehyde was significantly lower under the spinach (p = 0.001) and superfood (p = 0.017) conditions compared to the control. Conclusion According to the results of the present study, it seems that seven days’ supplementation of either raw spinach or NBS superfood could positively affect the inflammatory responses to repeated anaerobic all-out activities. Therefore, these supplementation strategies might be considered ergogenic aids and used by athletes before participating in repeated strenuous activities.

Composition, Efficacy, and Safety of Spinach Extracts

Type of study: literature review

Number of citations: 108

Year: 2003

Authors: L. Lomnitski, M. Bergman, A. Nyska, V. Ben-Shaul, S. Grossman

Journal: Nutrition and Cancer

Journal ranking: Q2

Key takeaways: Spinach extracts, particularly the natural antioxidant mixture NAO, show promising anticancer effects and are safe for human consumption.

Abstract: Spinach leaves, containing several active components, including flavonoids, exhibit antioxidative, antiproliferative, and antiinflammatory properties in biological systems. Spinach extracts have been demonstrated to exert numerous beneficial effects, such as chemo- and central nervous system protection and anticancer and antiaging functions. In this review article, we present a compilation of data generated in our laboratories and those of other investigators describing the chemical composition of spinach, its beneficial effects, relative safety information, and its recommended inclusion in the human diet. A powerful, water-soluble, natural antioxidant mixture (NAO), which specifically inhibits the lipoxygenase enzyme, was isolated from spinach leaves. The antioxidative activity of NAO has been compared to that of other known antioxidants and found to be superior in vitro and in vivo to that of green tea,N-acetylcysteine (NAC), butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT), and vitamin E. NAO has been tested for safety and is well tolerated in several species, such as mouse, rat, and rabbit. NAO has been found to be nonmutagenic and has shown promising anticarcinogenic effects in a few experimental models, such as skin and prostate cancer; it has not shown any target-organ toxicity or side effects. The current review provides epidemiological and preclinical data supporting the efficacy of extracts of spinach and the safety of its consumption.

Szpinak – zdrowa, nieco zapomniana roślina

Type of study:

Number of citations: 0

Year: 2019

Authors: Wojciech Malchrzak, Jakub Gurbierz, K. Bula, Szymon Hradzki, Z. Zdrojewicz

Journal: Medycyna Rodzinna

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Spinach has beneficial effects on the nervous, osteoarticular, digestive, and endocrine systems, as well as reducing teeth hypersensitivity and promoting satiety levels.

Abstract: Spinach and its preserves have beneficial effects on the organism, associated with its dietary changes, but also affect by containing biologically active substances which directly affects the body’s tissues. The studies cited in this article have proven many effects of this interesting and, as it finds out, often undervalued plant. Water is the largest part of the spinach composition, however, it also contains carbohydrates and protein and it is linked with a rich source of valuable and necessary substances like microelements and vitamins. Storage, as well as the condition in which the spinach grew, has a large impact on its composition. Factors forming good development of this plant are organic farming, adequate lighting and growing season. There are many studies which are linked with beneficial spinach influence on nervous system, osteoarticular system, digestive system and endocrine system. Trials carried out on rats often prove rightness of hypotheses about beneficial and pleiotropic property of the spinach. Effect of local acting of spinach on teeth was examined, and it can diminish teeth hypersensitivity as well as potassium nitrate. In the other studies concerning about osteoarticular system impact of delaying osteoporotic changes associated with menopause, as well as formation of degenerative changes in the knee joints in rats. Another proved attribute of spinach is its beneficial influence on obesity. Spinach extracts by inhibiting hunger hormones and stimulating satiety hormones secretion can increase satiety level in comparison to placebo.

THE EFFECT OF SPINACH CONSUMPTION ON INCREASING HAEMOGLOBIN IN PREGNANT WOMEN

Type of study:

Number of citations: 0

Year: 2024

Authors: Umu Qonitun, Suhartatik, Jl. Diponegoro, 17 No., Tuban Tuban

Journal: Indonesian Midwifery and Health Sciences Journal

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Spinach consumption has a significant effect on increasing hemoglobin levels in pregnant women with anemia.

Abstract: Background: Anemia is a symptom of a lack of red blood cells due to low hemoglobin levels. Based on the performance assessment report of the Tuban Regency Senori Community Health Center  East Java Indonesia in 2022, it was found that 36.65% of pregnant women experienced anemia. This shows that there are still many pregnant women who experience anemia and need treatment. The aim of this research is to determine the effect of spinach consumption on increasing hemoglobin levels in pregnant women. Method: quasi experiment with One Group Pretest-Posttest design. The sample in this study was 16 pregnant women with anemia in the Senori Community Health Center Tuban Regency East Java Indonesia, who met the inclusion criteria. The research instrument used an observation sheet to determine hemoglobin levels in the blood before and after consuming green spinach, an easy touch Hb level check tool. Data were analyzed using paired T-test. Result : The average Hb level of pregnant women before the intervention was 10.20 gr% and after the intervention was 11.18 gr%, the results of the paired t-test showed a significance value = 0.000, so the significance value (2-tailed) < α (0 .05) which shows that there is an effect of spinach consumption on increasing hemoglobin levels in pregnant women. Conclusion : There is an effect of spinach consumption on increasing Hb levels in pregnant women. Integrated ANC activities are expected to be carried out routinely so that pregnant women who experience anemia can be detected early and health workers can provide explanations to pregnant women about the dangers of anemia during pregnancy and the consumption of spinach and its benefits.

Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) microgreen prevents the formation of advanced glycation end products in model systems and breads.

Type of study:

Number of citations: 11

Year: 2023

Authors: Qian Zhou, Wenxin Liang, Jiaqian Wan, Mingfu Wang

Journal: Current research in food science

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Baby spinach microgreens effectively inhibit advanced glycation end products formation in breads, offering potential for healthy functional foods.

A REVIEW ON SPINACIA OLARACEA

Type of study: rct

Number of citations: 0

Year: 2023

Authors: R. Shireesh Kiran, Saleha Bathool, K. Geetha, G. Sharma, T. R. Rao

Journal: PARIPEX INDIAN JOURNAL OF RESEARCH

Journal ranking: brak

Key takeaways: Spinach (Spinacia oleracea) is a nutritious, easy-to-grow, and medicinally significant vegetable with numerous health benefits.

Abstract: The family Chenopodiaceae includes the annual herb spinach (Spinacia oleracea). Due to its great nutritional content, it is widely spread and farmed around the world, including Iran, where it is a native of South-West Asia. Minerals like iron, copper, phosphorus, zinc, and copper are abundant in spinach. ß-carotene, lutein, vitamin B complex (niacin and folic acid), selenium, ascorbic acid, and Zeaxanthin, phenols (flavonoids, p-coumaric acid), apocynin, and Omega-3 fatty acids are some of these components. It is a Vegetable that grows quite quickly, is simple to maintain, and can be distinguished by its color green. as oblong, smooth leaves that might be either smooth or crinkled. Moreover, the entire plant is medicinally significant and has several therapeutic uses in conventional medicine. 81 spinach landraces were grown during 2-years according to randomized complete block design with four replications.

Nutrition and longevity – From mechanisms to uncertainties

Type of study: literature review

Number of citations: 59

Year: 2020

Authors: C. Ekmekcioglu

Journal: Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Caloric restriction, methionine restriction, lower protein intake, and spermidine supplementation are key factors in extending lifespan in model organisms and rodents, while high intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and coffee reduces all-cause mortality risk.

Abstract: Abstract Genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors primarily determine the lifespan of humans. From these, nutrition is a key component affecting our health, and several studies particularly in model organisms and rodents have shown that nutrition has also the potential to increase lifespan. This review, therefore, aimed to summarize and discuss the most important nutritional components and diets which have been repeatedly associated with longevity. A brief summary of mechanistic factors involved, like for example mTor, IGF-1, and autophagy, will also be presented. Finally, the association of foods and diets with all-cause mortality will be summarized by conducting a mini umbrella review of available meta-analyses. The main conclusions of this review are that caloric restriction without malnutrition, methionine restriction, lower protein intake or supplementation of spermidine are major life-extending factors, in model organisms or rodents. In humans, certain healthy foods are associated with longer telomere length, and reductions in protein intake with lower IGF-1 levels, respectively, both relations being associated with longer lifespan. Furthermore, a high intake of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, nuts, and also coffee is associated with a reduced risk for all-cause mortality whereas a high intake of (red) meat and especially processed meat is positively related to all-cause mortality. In addition, the Mediterranean and also high-quality diets are associated with reduced all-cause mortality risk.

Nutrition, longevity and disease: From molecular mechanisms to interventions

Type of study:

Number of citations: 197

Year: 2022

Authors: V. Longo, Rozalyn M. Anderson

Journal: Cell

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: A multi-pillar approach to nutrition, including a balanced diet, can optimize lifespan and healthspan in humans by preventing malnutrition and frailty.

Molecular mechanisms of dietary restriction promoting health and longevity

Type of study:

Number of citations: 429

Year: 2021

Authors: Cara L. Green, Dudley Lamming, L. Fontana

Journal: Nature Reviews Molecular Cell Biology

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Dietary restriction in diverse species, such as rodents and non-human primates, promotes health and longevity by affecting key molecular pathways involved in aging prevention.

Essential role for autophagy in life span extension.

Type of study:

Number of citations: 373

Year: 2015

Authors: F. Madeo, A. Zimmermann, M. Maiuri, G. Kroemer

Journal: The Journal of clinical investigation

Journal ranking: Q1

Key takeaways: Autophagy plays a crucial role in life span extension, with calorie restriction and genetic inactivation of nutrient signaling pathways leading to increased longevity.

Abstract: Life and health span can be prolonged by calorie limitation or by pharmacologic agents that mimic the effects of caloric restriction. Both starvation and the genetic inactivation of nutrient signaling converge on the induction of autophagy, a cytoplasmic recycling process that counteracts the age-associated accumulation of damaged organelles and proteins as it improves the metabolic fitness of cells. Here we review experimental findings indicating that inhibition of the major nutrient and growth-related signaling pathways as well as the upregulation of anti-aging pathways mediate life span extension via the induction of autophagy. Furthermore, we discuss mounting evidence suggesting that autophagy is not only necessary but, at least in some cases, also sufficient for increasing longevity.