Kale has been around for thousands of years, but recently has seen a surge in popularity, especially among millennials, hipsters looking to stay ahead of the curve, and those who are trying to be more health conscious. And for good reason, too. Kale is considered a super food for many reasons, not least of which is it tastes amazing. Here are ten reason you should implement kale into your diet.
1. Full of Nutrients. Kale is among the most densely nutritious foods out there. A cup of kale, about two and a half ounces, provides you with 200% of your Vitamin A, 685% of Vitamin K, 135% of Vitamin C, as well as Vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron, all with only 33 calories!
2. High in Antioxidants. Antioxidants have been shown to lower the risk of cancer, lower blood pressure, fight depression and viruses, and lower inflammation.
3. Vitamin C. A cup of kale actually has more Vitamin C than an entire orange.
4. Lowers Cholesterol. Kale increases the good cholesterol while reducing the bad, which in turn reduces the risk of heart disease.
5. Vitamin K. Vitamin K helps with blood clotting, and kale has an estimated 7 times the recommended daily intake.
6. Cancer Fighting. Kale has been shown to have many different nutrients that help fight off cancer.
7. Beta Carotene. Kale is high in beta carotene, which the body can synthesize into Vitamin A.
8. Source of Rare Vitamins and Minerals. Kale has calcium, potassium, and magnesium, essential minerals that are hard to come by in modern diets.
9. High in Eye Nutrients. Kale is high in the nutrient lupine, which is essential in preventing cataracts.
10. Helps You Lose Weight. Kale is low in calories, but bulky, so you feel fuller faster. It also has high amounts of fiber and protein, which help to lose weight.
