Spinach
Juicy Trivia
Spinach is believed to be of Persian origin. By the 12th century, it had spread across Europe and became a desirable leafy green known for good health; a reputation that stands firm to this day.
Jason Says...
Spinach is said to be the finest material for cleansing, reconstructing and regenerating the bowel. It contains high levels of chlorophyll which will help to bring oxygen to the blood cells. Spinach can also help to reduce arthritic pain.
Juice or Smoothie?
Juice: Green is where it's at so always make sure you sneak these leafy greens into as many juices as you can. Always pack them in tight in-between the other harder produce as this helps to extract the most juice.
Juicy Benefits
The dark green colour of spinach leaves indicates they contain high levels of chlorophyll and health promoting carotenoids (beta carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin). These phyto chemicals have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancerous properties and are especially important for healthy eye-sight, helping to prevent macular degeneration and cataracts.
Spinach is an alkaline producing food, making it useful in helping to regulate body pH.
Research
A long term study at Lund University in Sweden by Charlotte Erlanson-Albertsson, Professor of Medicine and Physiological Chemistry tests the theory that a spinach extract containing green leaf membranes called thylakoids decreases hedonic hunger with up to 95% - and increases weight loss with 43%. The analyses show that having a drink containing thylakoids before breakfast reduces cravings and keeps you feeling more satisfied all day” said Charlotte.
The study involved 38 overweight women and ran for three months. Every morning before breakfast the participants had a green drink. Half of the women were given 5 grams of spinach extract and the other half, the control group, were given a placebo. The participants did not know which group they belonged to – the only instructions they received were to eat a balanced diet including three meals a day and not to go on any other diet.
“In the study, the control group lost an average of 3.5 kg while the group that was given thylakoids lost 5 kg. The thylakoid group also found that it was easier to stick to three meals a day – and they did not experience any cravings”, said Charlotte Erlanson-Albertsson.
Vitamins, Minerals and Extras
Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, K, Beta-Carotene and Folic Acid.
Iron, Iodine, Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sulphur and Magnesium.
References
Disclaimer
Please be aware that we are not Doctors, so it is important BEFORE making any changes that you consult with your GP or Medical Practitioner. The suggestions above are not meant as an alternative to any current medical treatment so please DO NOT stop taking any medications you are on. They are also not an endorsement of their effectiveness, nor a recommendation that they should be followed but instead, provided for informational purposes. None of the information on the Natural Juice Therapy site is intended or implied to treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease.