Kale, known for its dark green and sometimes purple colour, is a cruciferous vegetables and a member of the cabbage family. I know what you’re thinking !!! 

“Oh here we go again, another one of those bland tasting vegetables, that I’ll only eat occasionally”. Well, all I have to say to that is slow down!!

Yes, it may be related to Cabbage and Cauliflower but this member of the family has been deemed a SUPER-FOOD and is an excellent choice as one of our 5+ different fruit and vegetable servings per day. 

Here’s why…

2.5 oz of Kale, which equates to roughly 64-68g, contains high levels of Vitamins A, B6, C, K as well as being a fantastic source of antioxidants. It also contains calcium, phytonutrients (lutein & zeaxanthin) and manganese. ALL OF THIS for a total of 33 calories, 6g Carbohydrates and 3g Protein. In addition, Kale contains very little fat, though the fat is does have comes from an Omega-3 fatty acid source.

“But what do all these vitamins and nutrients mean for me?”

Well…

• Antioxidants are believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and can further help counteract oxidative damage from free radicals in the body. Free radicals are believed to be a driving force for certain diseases, including cancer and mental health.
  
• Kale contains bile acid binding properties which work to lower cholesterol and could potentially reduce the risk of heart disease.
  
• Nutrients like calcium are essential for bone health and cellular function.
  
• Vitamin K is a crucial blood clotting agent and also has the ability to bind to calcium.
  
• Kale is one of the only few food types that has higher levels of Vitamin C than any other vegetable.

In summary, the benefits associated with Kale seem to be endless and given its low calorie and nutrient dense content, eating Kale should be considered as an option for your diet.

Thanks for reading