So many people avoid feeding tortoises spinach like they would avoid the plague, COVID-19 or nearly any other major illness. However, spinach isn’t quite as terrible as it is made out to be. It may not be the best food to feed a Russian tortoise, but it Russian tortoises can eat spinach.
Russian tortoises should have a primary diet of mostly weeds, plants and some greens. In most cases, you’ll most likely find your pet Russian tortoise will prefer a nice dandelion leaf or mallow plant over kale or spinach any day. However, the darker lettuces are packed with the most nutrients when compared to lighter lettuces. But dark lettuces also container higher amounts of oxalates, making them an occasional feed.
What are Oxalates?
Oxalates are tiny molecules that bind like calcium. They’re considered an anti-nutrient that steals nutrients from the body once consumed. When eaten in small amounts, the body will naturally rid itself of oxalates. However when consumed in large amounts, oxalates can become overly concentrated and crystallize.
In excess, oxalates can cause health problems in the kidneys and/or gallbladder. They can also interfere with iron and calcium absorption, as well as cause mineral imbalance, urinary tract issues, poor gut function, auto-immunity concerns and inflammation. However, the most common problem that oxalates cause is to the kidneys and bladder.
Spinach is among the many foods that are high in oxalates.
Benefits of Spinach
Spinach is not usually a popular lettuce to feed tortoises. You’ll find a lot of mixed opinions online between keepers, hobbyists and long-time breeders.
When fed in small amounts as a part of a varied diet, you Russian tortoise can eat spinach. You do not have to pick out every leaf of spinach when offering a plate of spring mix lettuce.
Spinach is considered a super food. It has a lot of benefits for you and your tortoise when eaten along with a variety of other foods. So it doesn’t hurt to grab a plate of spinach and make a tasty salad for lunch.
Health Benefits of Spinach
- Anti-cancer properties
- Rich in antioxidants for eye health
- Boosts immunity
- Prevents anemia
- Believed to have anti-stress properties
- Supports healthy bones
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Aids skin repair
- Supports healthy heart and blood flow
Vitamins and Minerals in Spinach
Being a super food, it’s not surprising that spinach is packed with a ton of vitamins, minerals and other health-boosting compounds. Some of the
- Calcium
- Carotenoids
- Fiber
- Folic acid
- Iron
- Kaempferol
- Lutein
- Manganese
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Nitrates
- Potassium
- Quercetin
- Thiamine
- Vitamin A, C, K, B6, B9 and E
- Zeaxanthin
- Zinc
