The wonderful health benefits of kale
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Kale is popping up everywhere from farmers' markets and juice bars, to fancy restaurants and recipe blogs. But what is it about this leafy green vegetable that's got everyone excited?
The nutrients it contains is the answer. Classed as one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables around and packed with antioxidants, folate and calcium, kale is certainly a powerhouse of a superfood.
So, what does Kale contain and why is it so good for us?
Vitamin A: One cup contains 206% of the recommended daily dose. This vitamin is important for vision, growth, cell division and reproduction and immunity.
Vitamin K: Containing 684% of the recommended daily dose, kale can help with blood clotting, giving certain proteins the ability to bind calcium.
Vitamin C: Kale is extremely high in vitamin C, an antioxidant that has many important roles in the body. A single cup of raw kale actually contains more vitamin C than an orange, with 134% of the recommended daily dose.
Vitamin B6: This vitamin is important for normal brain development and for keeping the nervous system and immune system healthy. One cup contains 9% of your RDA.
Manganese: One cup contains 26% of the recommended daily intake. Manganese is required for the normal functioning of your brain, nervous system and many of your body’s enzyme systems.
Calcium: Kale also contains almost as much calcium as milk, with one cup providing 9% of the RDA.
Potassium: Potassium is a mineral that your body needs to work properly. It helps your nerves to function and muscles to contract, as well as helping your heartbeat stay regular.
So, what can all these fantastic vitamins and minerals do for us?
- Can support immunity
Kale contains many vitamins important for supporting a healthy immune system including Vitamin C, selenium, Vitamin E and beta carotene.
- Could help with weight loss
Kale is very low in calories but is high bulk, meaning it can help you feel full for longer. Great when you're trying to lose weight.
- May support bone health
Kale contains many of the minerals our modern diets lack. Kale contains calcium and vitamin K, which can reduce osteoporosis. In fact, kale has more calcium per calorie than a glass of milk! It’s a great source of plant protein and contains oxalate which helps the body absorb calcium.
- Could help protect against heart disease
Kale contains several heart supporting nutrients, including potassium, which helps keep healthy blood pressure. Research has shown that by drinking kale juice the risk of certain artery diseases can be reduced.
- May support eye health
Kale is rich in lutein and zeaxanthin that support the health of our eyes and vision, especially as we age. Consuming sufficient quantities of these nutrients lowers the risk of age-related macular degeneration and cataracts as shown in several studies.
- May lower cholesterol
Cholesterol has often been linked to heart disease and lowering bad cholesterol is considered a good thing. One study found that drinking kale juice every day for 12 weeks increased HDL (the 'good') cholesterol by 27% and lowered LDL levels by 10%, while also improving antioxidant status
There's no doubt kale has many beneficial properties and to make it easier for you to obtain these we have two ready-made superfood juices for you. Our pure Kale juice and our blended Kale juice with Reishi and Macca. To order yours visit our shop today.