The Real Health Benefits Of Kale
Kale is a dark leafy vegetable that has gained popularity in recent years. Its rise to fame makes sense considering all the health benefits this superfood packs in each leaf. Here's a breakdown of why you should consider adding kale into your diet.
To begin, kale is extremely nutrient-dense. This means it contains a high amount of vitamins and minerals in relation to its weight. According to Healthline, kale is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. One cup of this vegetable contains a long list of vitamins and minerals with very little fat and only 33 calories.
What are those nutrients? When you eat kale, you are getting vitamins A, K, C, and B6. Your body also enjoys a dose of manganese, calcium, copper, potassium, and magnesium. This veggie stores a small amount of a few other nutrients as well, including vitamins B1, B2, iron, and phosphorus. Vegetables don't typically contain much fat, and kale is no exception. The small amount it does house is alpha-linolenic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid essential for human growth. Finally, it's high in antioxidants to help your body fight against diseases.
Kale can keep you healthy and ward off health problems
Because of its vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant content, kale may help you ward off various diseases. According to Medical News Today, this vegetable has been shown to fight against diabetes, heart disease, and even cancer when included in a well-rounded diet. It can also improve digestion, and skin, hair, and eye health.
There are many ways to add kale to your diet. It can be eaten raw as part of a salad, although many people find it bitter and slightly tough. Removing the stems and massaging the leaves before eating can make it more palatable. Kale holds its shape when cooked, making it an easy addition to soups and sauces because it won't wilt. Incorporating it into recipes with many other ingredients will mask some of the earthy flavor if you don't enjoy the taste. A fun way to enjoy the health benefits of kale is to make kale chips, according to The Spruce Eats. Simply drizzle them with some olive oil and cook in the oven until they are crispy. There is no reason not to enjoy this versatile superfood as part of your overall diet.