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5 Benefits of Eating Kale

Updated on May 21, 2013
Fresh, Pre-Cut, Kale
Fresh, Pre-Cut, Kale | Source

I’m not a big fan of eating large meals. My preferred eating habits normally consist of snacking on mini meals throughout the day. And, like most people making healthy choices is always the goal when it comes to eating well. Recently, I began adding kale to my diet. Kale is one of the healthiest vegetables around, plus it’s easy to prepare an array of small meals with this unique and increasingly popular green.

But, the best thing I’ve discovered in my adventures with this appetizing veggie is that there are so many important nutritional advantages in just a single serving. Below are 5 little known benefits of eating kale.

Pre-Cut, Pre-Washed Kale is Available at Most Supermarkets.
Pre-Cut, Pre-Washed Kale is Available at Most Supermarkets. | Source

1. It’s High in Iron

Kale is not only a fat-free food, but it’s also high in iron. For someone who doesn’t eat red meat, I often have to search far and wide to find enjoyable foods that have a significant source of iron. Thankfully, my hunt led me to kale. Iron carries life-giving oxygen to human blood cells. It also regulates body temperature and strengthens the immune system. This is a vital nutrient for our overall health and, surprisingly, per calorie, kale has more iron than beef.

2. It's High in Vitamin C

Vitamin C is known as being one of the most effective nutrients out there, and it’s highly regarded in helping to combat the common cold. But, in addition to it’s widely known effects, this rich nutrient helps shield against immune system deficiencies; it protects against cardiovascular disease; it helps fight cancer, plus it aids in lowering blood pressure. And, if that wasn’t enough, studies are now revealing that vitamin C can actually elevate your mood. Translation, adding kale to your diet will not only make you healthier, but happier.

3. It's High in Vitamin A

Vitamin A is essential for maintaining good skin, strong bones and nice teeth. It is also key to supporting healthy vision because it is believed to fight against cataracts, macular degeneration, glaucoma, and other age-related eye diseases. One cup of kale exceeds the daily-recommended dietary allowance. And, because of the antioxidants, this super vegetable aids in fighting off various infections in the body, plus it helps protect against certain forms of cancer.

4. It's High in Calcium

Calcium deficiency is on the rise, especially among women on restricted diets, however our bodies need this important mineral to build and maintain strong bones. Additionally, calcium helps our heart, muscles and nerves to function properly, plus, it’s been said to prevent obesity and some forms of cancer. From birth to adulthood calcium is a key contributor to our overall health, and eating the right amount of kale is an appetizing way to ensure you get it.

Kale is Overflowing with Nutritional Benefits
Kale is Overflowing with Nutritional Benefits | Source

5. It's High in Fiber

Fiber is best known for it’s ability to relieve and prevent constipation, plus, it helps to lower bad cholesterol, and lessen the likelihood of diabetes. In addition to being great for digestive wellness, fiber is good for cardiovascular health; plus, it improves blood sugar levels, and reduces the risk of heart disease. And, if that wasn’t enough, eating a fiber-rich diet, complete with kale, creates a feeling of fullness, which will aid any dieters trying to reach those elusive weight loss goals.

It’s clear, kale is an exceptional food, and adding this rich vegetable to your normal diet will contribute to a more rewarding lifestyle. You’ll strengthen your immune system, improve your digestive health, build strong bones, and feel happier. Try incorporating kale into your daily meals and you’ll be well on your way to reaping the greatest advantage of all, a healthier you.

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