Spinach could accelerate the healing of diabetic ulcers, study says
BOSTON - A new study finds a popular leafy green vegetable could accelerate wound healing in patients with diabetes.
Skin ulcers are a common complication of long-standing diabetes. They can take a long time to heal, often years, and in rare cases, doctors will need to amputate a foot or leg to save a patient's life.
Spinach is high in nutrients including vitamins, antioxidants, zinc, and a compound called glutamine, which plays an important role in reducing inflammation and wound healing. In a new study, scientists in Iran found that rats with diabetes who received spinach extract experienced faster healing of their diabetic ulcers, especially those fed the extract before the ulcers even appeared.
Now the extract will need to be tested in humans to see if the same holds true.