There is an antioxidant called lutein that is good for your eyes. Furthermore, although research is by no means confirmed, lutein may also play a role in guarding against cancer. Spinach is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, which are carotenoids that help remove unstable molecules called free radicals from your body before they damage it. Not only are they found in spinach, but in other dark and leafy vegetables, as well. Some studies show that they could help protect against cancer of the mouth, stomach, and esophagus. 

Talk about a nutritional powerhouse in every dark green leaf you eat; they also have folate and fiber, which researchers think might lower the risks of certain cancers too. Folate helps your body repair DNA and produce new cells and is especially important in women of childbearing age because it can even prevent neural tube defects in a developing fetus. To get the most lutein from your spinach, you will want to eat it raw or lightly cooked. Steamed, sautéed, in a salad, or soup are just a few great ways to incorporate it into your diet.