Kale

A member of the cabbage family, kale comes in two forms: kale, which has smooth leaves, and curly kale, which has crinkly leaves. Curly kale is the most common of the two.

Instead of forming a head, the leaves grow in a loose rosette at the top of a stem. The leaves are green, sometimes tinged with blue or purple, and their flavour is strong and distinct.

Kale is being called “the new beef”, “the queen of greens” and “a nutritional powerhouse.”

Kale is low in calorie, high in fiber and has zero fat. One cup of kale has only 36 calories, 5 grams of fiber and 0 grams of fat. It is great for aiding in digestion and elimination with its great fiber content. It’s also filled with so many nutrients, vitamins, folate and magnesium as well as those listed below.

It is high in iron. Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef. Iron is essential for good health, such as the formation of hemoglobin and enzymes, transporting oxygen to various parts of the body, cell growth, proper liver function and more.

High in Vitamin K, eating a diet high in Vitamin K can help protect against various cancers. It is also necessary for a wide variety of bodily functions including normal bone health and the prevention of blood clotting. Also increased levels of Vitamin K can help people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease. It is filled with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants, such as carotenoids and flavonoids help protect against various cancers. It is a great anti-inflammatory food.

One cup of kale is filled with 10% of the RDA of omega-3 fatty acids, which help, fight against arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders. Kale is great for cardiovascular support. Eating it can help lower cholesterol levels. It is high in Vitamins A and C. This is very helpful for your immune system, your metabolism and your hydration.

It is also high in calcium. Per calorie, kale has more calcium than milk, which aids in preventing bone loss, preventing osteoporosis and maintaining a healthy metabolism. This is also a great detox food. Kale is filled with fiber and sulfur, both great for detoxifying your body and keeping your liver healthy.

Best Eaten: Kale is most commonly boiled or steamed but also tastes great in a salad or soup. Try combining chopped kale, pine nuts, feta cheese, sprinkle with balsamic vinegar and chopped walnuts and finally drizzling it all with olive oil.