Basella alba is a succulent, branched, twining herbaceous, perennial plant which is cultivated as a vegetable. This plant is also known as Malabar spinach, Indian spinach, Ceylon spinach, East-Indian spinach, Vine spinach, Climbing spinach, Chinese spinach, Cyclone spinach and Alugbati.
Malabar spinach is an excellent source of iron, calcium, Vitamin C and Vitamin A. It contains high protein and great source of phosphorus and potassium. It has great amount of antioxidants such as lutein and beta carotene.
Folate is essential to reduce the homocysteine level which is present in the blood. Homocysteine increases the chances of strokes and heart attacks.
The low presence of folate in the body increases the chances of colon, cervical, breast, lung and brain cancer.
Anemia is also one of the causes of folate deficiency. It is the health condition where the red blood cells are formed improperly. Folate assists in the absorption of Vitamin B12 which helps to absorb the nutrients, brain function and provides energy.
Folate is one of the vital vitamin which is required for the having healthy pregnancy. The deficiency of folate results in neural tube defects such as anencephaly, spina bifida, limb malformations and heart ailments. Folate is vital for copying DNA and builds the new cells. Low levels of folate leads to developments issues which remain after birth as well.
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