Szpinak – zdrowa, nieco zapomniana roślina

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.