Scientists have recently discovered that Popeye was right: spinach does make you stronger. Apparently it is the nitrate found naturally in spinach and several other vegies such as beetroot, chard and lettuce, that can significantly increase muscle strength.  Consuming nitrate rich vegetables boosts concentrations of 2 proteins found in the muscles, CASQ1 and DHPR. These proteins are used for storing and releasing calcium, which is essential for muscle contraction.

You can easily increase your nitrate levels by simply including lots of green leafy vegetables into your diet and drinking beetroot juice!