scored 77/100
Vinespinach is a leafy green vegetable rich in vitamin C, potassium, and folate with minimal calories, making it an excellent nutrient-dense addition to longevity-focused diets.
These are the scored components, not a sum: the published score also reflects normalisation across the catalog, so the parts above will not add to 77.
Less a 2.0 anti-nutrient penalty (high oxalates).
Vinespinach, also known as Basella alba or Indian spinach, is a tropical climbing plant with succulent leaves commonly used in Asian and African cuisines. Despite its name, it is botanically unrelated to common spinach. This vegetable delivers exceptional micronutrient density at only 19 calories per 100g, with standout levels of vitamin C (102mg per 100g), potassium (510mg), and folate (140mcg). The vitamin C content supports immune function and collagen synthesis, while the potassium-to-sodium ratio (21:1) is favorable for cardiovascular health and blood pressure regulation. Vinespinach also provides bioavailable calcium and iron, making it particularly valuable for those managing mineral intake. The low oxalate content compared to common spinach means minerals are more readily absorbed. Its mucilaginous texture when cooked suggests the presence of polysaccharides that may support digestive health. The folate content is especially relevant for aging populations, as adequate folate supports homocysteine metabolism and cognitive function. Regular consumption of vinespinach aligns with dietary patterns associated with reduced cardiovascular disease and all-cause mortality risk in longevity studies.
High potassium content (510mg/100g) with minimal sodium activates Na+/K+-ATPase pumps in vascular tissue, promoting vasodilation and reducing arterial stiffness
Exceptional vitamin C levels (102mg/100g) act as a cofactor for immune cell function and protect cells from free radical damage through antioxidant activity
Folate (140mcg/100g) serves as a methyl donor in one-carbon metabolism, reducing homocysteine levels and supporting neuronal methylation reactions associated with memory and executive function
Bioavailable calcium (109mg) and magnesium (65mg) with low oxalate content support bone mineral density and magnesium-dependent enzyme function in osteoblasts
Contains 1.2mg iron per 100g alongside vitamin C, which enhances non-heme iron bioavailability through reduction of ferric to ferrous iron
Vinespinach contains no compounds requiring specific digestive timing and provides micronutrients supporting both metabolic activity and recovery throughout the day; inclusion at any meal optimizes daily micronutrient targets
Fasting-compatible
Can be consumed during intermittent fasting windows as a zero-calorie micronutrient source; the 19 calories and minimal macronutrients preserve metabolic flexibility benefits
Per 100 g of the default form. Bars show how much higher or lower vinespinach is than the average across 137 peer foods in this category. Green means a favorable direction; amber means the opposite.
Vinespinach is classified as a vegetable. Vinespinach is a leafy green vegetable rich in vitamin C, potassium, and folate with minimal calories, making it an excellent nutrient-dense addition to longevity-focused diets.
Vinespinach scores 77/100 in Formulate, making it a solid choice. Its strongest contributions come from Vitamin C, Folate, Manganese. The score blends nutrient density, fiber, healthy fats, protein quality, bioactive compounds, and glycemic impact.
Not particularly. A 85 g serving provides about 1.5 g of protein (~3% of the 50 g daily value).
Not really. A 85 g serving provides about 0 g of fiber (~0% of the 28 g daily value).
In a 85 g serving, vinespinach is highest in Vitamin C (~96% DV), Folate (~30% DV), Manganese (~27% DV), Magnesium (~13% DV), Copper (~10% DV).
Yes — it fits comfortably in most keto plans. A 85 g serving has about 2.9 g of net carbs (2.9 g total minus 0 g fiber).
Best any time of day. Vinespinach contains no compounds requiring specific digestive timing and provides micronutrients supporting both metabolic activity and recovery throughout the day; inclusion at any meal optimizes daily micronutrient targets
A typical serving is around 85 g (~16 kcal), based on the FDA's Reference Amount Customarily Consumed for this food category. There's no fixed daily target — most adults benefit from rotating vinespinach alongside several other vegetable sources.
Vinespinach pairs nicely with: Pair with citrus fruits (lemon, orange) because added vitamin C enhances non-heme iron absorption from vinespinach by 3-4 fold through acidification; Combine with olive oil or avocado because fat-soluble vitamin A (400 IU) requires lipid transport for intestinal absorption and lymphatic delivery; Serve with legumes (lentils, chickpeas) because vinespinach's vitamin C amplifies plant-based iron bioavailability, creating a complete micronutrient-rich meal; Add to bone broth-based soups because the potassium and folate complement broth's collagen and amino acids for comprehensive joint and cognitive support.
High oxalates.
Encyclopedia entries that supply the same signature nutrients vinespinach contributes. Click through to see clinical dose ranges, evidence quality, and bioavailable forms.
These are the nutrients vinespinachcontributes meaningfully toward (≥10% DV per 100 g serving). Click one to see what it does in the body, which supplements concentrate it, and which other foods are top sources.