Monday, April 30, 2012

Why should I eat Kale? And what is it, anyway?

Top 10 Health Benefits of Eating Kale

Kale is being called “the new beef”, “the queen of greens” and “a nutritional powerhouse.” Here are ten great benefits of adding more kale to your diet:

1. Kale is low in calorie, high in fiber and has zero fat. One cup of kale has only 36 calories, 5 grams of fiber and 0 grams of fat. It is great for aiding in digestion and elimination with its great fiber content. It’s also filled with so many nutrients, vitamins, folate and magnesium as well as those listed below.

2. Kale is high in iron. Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef. Iron is essential for good health, such as the formation of hemoglobin and enzymes, transporting oxygen to various parts of the body, cell growth, proper liver function and more.

3. Kale is high in Vitamin K. Eating a diet high in Vitamin K can help protect against various cancers. It is also necessary for a wide variety of bodily functions including normal bone health and the prevention of blood clotting. Also increased levels of vitamin K can help people suffering from Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Kale is filled with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants, such as carotenoids and flavonoids help protect against various cancers.

5. Kale is a great anti-inflammatory food. One cup of kale is filled with 10% of the RDA of omega-3 fatty acids, which help, fight against arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders.

6. Kale is great for cardiovascular support. Eating more kale can help lower cholesterol levels.

7. Kale is high in Vitamin A.Vitamin A is great for your vision, your skin as well as helping to prevent lung and oral cavity cancers.

8. Kale is high in Vitamin C. This is very helpful for your immune system, your metabolism and your hydration.

9. Kale is high in calcium. Per calorie, kale has more calcium than milk, which aids in preventing bone loss, preventing osteoporosis and maintaining a healthy metabolism. Vitamin C is also helpful to maintain cartilage and joint flexibility

10. Kale is a great detox food. Kale is filled with fiber and sulfur, both great for detoxifying your body and keeping your liver healthy.
 
So now you know why it's good to eat Kale, but you don't know how to cook it.
 
Well, here's a real easy way to fix Kale.  Trust me, you'll like it.
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                                               Kale with sausage and beans. 
2 tablespoons Joe and Son's Olive Press EVOO...I like using Arbequina
1/2 large green bell pepper...diced
1 large yellow onion          ...diced
2-4 cloves garlic            ..  minced
1 bag Kale...I buy Glory Kale and it can be found at your local grocery store in the produce section
2 small cans beef broth + 1 can of water for each can
Turkey Kilbasa, if desired
1-2 cans Northern beans...with juice
 
1. Heat oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add bell pepper,onion and garlic. Cook until
translucent.
2. Add broth, water and Kale. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer. Cook for 40 minutes.
3. Add beans and sausage and cook for another 10 minutes. Season to taste with salt and pepper. 
 
Serves 4-6
 

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