Why is spinach banned but eggplant permitted, when both are vegetables?
Spinach vs eggplant
What the system says
The system bans all leafy greens (spinach, lettuce, arugula, parsley, coriander) on the claim they "trigger immunity" and that humans "aren't like livestock" to eat leaves. Eggplant, pumpkin, and taro are permitted cooked because they're fruits and roots, not leaves.
What science says
Scientifically: spinach is rich in iron, folate, vitamins K and C, fibre, and antioxidants. Decades of epidemiological studies link leafy-green consumption to lower cancer and heart-disease rates. The "triggers immunity" claim isn't specific. Eggplant is also nutritious but doesn't replace spinach for iron or folate.
Spinach and leafy greens are among the most evidence-supported foods. Banning them removes iron and folate that other vegetables don't replace. If you avoid leaves, ensure replacements (red meat for iron, dates for folate).