Tuesday, February 1, 2011

Kale - The Forgotten "Step Child" of the Brassica Vegetable Family

Kale is among one of the most nutritional vegetables around, even though it may not spend many nights on the dinner plate. Kale is a member of the Brassica vegetable family that includes cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, collards, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts.  Although not seemingly as popular, kale is gaining in popularity because it packs a big nutritional punch. More and more, this leafy green is being recognized for it's exceptional nutrient richness, health benefits, and delicious flavor. In fact, I find that it has so many health benefits, I'm continually looking at how to add more kale to my diet!


One cup of kale contains 36 calories, 5 grams of fiber, and 15% of the daily requirement of calcium and vitamin B6 (pyridoxine), 40% of magnesium, 180% of vitamin A, 200% of vitamin C, and 1,020% of vitamin K. It is also a good source of minerals copper, potassium, iron, manganese, and phosphorus.

Kale’s health benefits are primarily linked to the high concentration and excellent source of antioxidant vitamins A, C, and K -- and sulphur-containing phytonutrients.

Carotenoids and flavonoids are the specific types of antioxidants associated with many of the anti-cancer health benefits. Kale is also rich in the eye-health promoting lutein and zeaxanthin compounds.

Beyond antioxidants, the fiber content of cruciferous kale binds bile acids and helps lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease, especially when kale is cooked instead of raw.

Kale is high in vitamin K, necessary for a wide variety of bodily functions, including normal blood clotting, antioxidant activity, and bone health. Too much vitamin K can pose problems for some people.

Anyone taking anticoagulants such as warfarin should avoid kale because the high level of vitamin K may interfere with the drugs. Consult your doctor before adding kale to your diet.

Kale also contains oxalates, naturally occurring substances that can interfere with the absorption of calcium. Avoid eating calcium-rich foods like dairy at the same time as kale to prevent any problems.

No comments:

Post a Comment