Let's Talk Veggies! The Kale Eddition

Just take a look at some of the benefits that kale has to offer and you'll agree that this vegetable definitely has a reason to make itself onto your plate!

1. Anti-inflammatory: Inflammation is the number one cause of arthritis, heart disease and a number of autoimmune diseases, and is triggered by the consumption of animal products. Kale is an incredibly effective anti-inflammatory food, potentially preventing and reversing these illnesses.

2. Iron: Despite the myth that vegetarians are anemic, the number of non-vegetarians with iron-deficiencies is on the rise. Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef.

3. Calcium: Dairy and beef both contain calcium, but the U.S. still has some of the highest rates of bone loss and osteoporosis in the world. Kale contains more calcium per calorie than milk (90 grams per serving) and is also better absorbed by the body than dairy.

4. Fiber: Like protein, fiber is a macronutrient, which means we need it every day. But many Americans don’t eat nearly enough and the deficiency is linked to heart disease, digestive disorders and cancer. Protein-rich foods, like meat, contain little to no fiber. One serving of kale not only contains 5 percent of the recommended daily intake of fiber, but it also provides 2 grams of protein.

5. Omega fatty acids: Essential Omega fats play an important role in our health, unlike the saturated fats in meat. A serving of kale contains 121 mg of omega-3 fatty acids and 92.4 mg of omega-6 fatty acids.

6. Bacteria and Superbugs: Are a serious risk to our health. Many of these come as a result of factory farm meat, eggs and dairy products. Kale is an incredibly rich source of immune-boosting carotenoid and flavonoid antioxidants including vitamins A and C.

It's funny how something so healthy often time gets the worse rep. How many people do you know snubs their nose up at the mere mention of kale? Many of those have either never tried it or have only tried it by it's self that has this opinion. Or maybe they just haven't tried it in a way that allows kale to really shine? Whatever the reason, there are many ways to enjoy kale even if perhaps it isn't your cup of tea. If for instance, if you have tried kale and it isn't your thing, try it in a smoothie with pineapples and mangoes! Or in a delicious kale Cesar salad! There are many ways to enjoy all that this little vegetable has to offer. So next time you're at the grocery store, pick up a bundle or two of this powerhouse and incorporate it into your diet! You might find that you actually really enjoy it! Next time you try it, tell me of your favorite ways to enjoy it!