Top 5 Healthy Foods series fourth article – Benefits of Kale. Check back for future posts to read more about my top 5 healthy foods.
So have you wondered what all the fuss is about with kale? For starters, it has sustainability and can grow in most climates. Kale contains antioxidants known to reduce inflammation which can reduce chronic diseases. It’s also packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, iron, calcium and healthy fats. Kale seems to be the “new beef” and the “king of leafy greens.”
Kale Salad and Chips
Reduces Carbon Footprint
Growing vegetables has a relatively low environmental impact. Leafy greens like kale, spinach and broccoli can grow in most climates helping to reduce the carbon footprint. Where animal agriculture has land degradation and a reduction in biodiversity.
Nutrition Fact Summary
- Serving size of 1 cup, chopped kale, raw contains:
- Calories 33, Calories from Fat 4, Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 29mg, Total Carbohydrate 7g, Protein 2g.
- Kale is heart healthy, low-sodium and low-carb!
[ilink url=”http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2461/2″ style=”tick”]The Facts of Kale[/ilink] View nutrient label: Nutrition Facts and Analysis for Kale, raw from NutritionData.com
Antioxidants, Calcium, and Healthy Fats
Antioxidants: All the dark leafy greens including kale are packed with powerful antioxidants to protect the immune system like vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, selenium and phytonutrients.
Calcium: Vegetables like kale, cabbage and collards have high amounts of calcium to help keep bones strong and minimize osteoporosis.
Healthy Fats: Not a fan of seafood then give kale a try. A 1 cup serving contains 121mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 92.4mg of omega-6 fatty acids.
Have you tried kale yet? If so, what is your favorite kale recipe? Please share by commenting below. Thanks!
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Recipes for Kale:
Cooking with Kale from CookingLight.com
11 Healthy Kale Recipes from Health.com
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Cheers to a Healthy Day!
I’m a Midwest gal who began on a journey to live a healthier life way back when I was in college. Now just like all of you, the twists and turns of my life have led me to where I am today. Passionate about healthy living, community and social media, I invite you to Live Young with me!
