Counting on Kale: 6 Health Benefits Provided
By Brandi Swieter
Kale is much more than just a current diet fad. The green vegetable that is part of the cabbage family packs a lot of nutrients into such a small amount. Enjoy just one cup in a salad or smoothie and you'll receive a healthy dose of vitamins and minerals.
Working on Weight Loss
A full cup of kale contains roughly 33 calories. This low-calorie food is ideal for anyone working on weight loss. They can enjoy the dark, leafy green as a base for their salad or pulverize it into mush to mix well into a drink version. It's great as a snack or for lunch.
Full of Fiber
Fiber helps keep people feeling full. With enough of it in a person's system, they won't feel the need to eat anything else for a while. This is another plus for weight loss. It also ensures a healthy digestive system. Fiber makes the digestive tract run efficiently. Kale provides roughly 2.5 grams of fiber in just one cup.
Offering Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acid is well-known for improving brain function. Though most people use fish as their source, kale contains the nutrient as well. This healthy fat is an aid for weight loss.
Protecting Eyesight
Lutein is found in kale. This same nutrient is found in carrots and other vegetables known for improving eyesight. People hoping to prevent macular degeneration and stop cataracts from developing should add more kale to their diet. The vegetable also contains zeaxanthin, which helps protect eyesight. It is also one of the components that gives kale its dark color.
Improving Iron Absorption
The B vitamins found in kale work on improving iron absorption within the body. It is ideal for people with anemia who tend to have low iron levels. These vitamins are also necessary for releasing the energy gained from food into the bloodstream. A healthy blood system and other functioning within the body is necessary for overall good health.
Reducing Heart Disease
Potassium helps the heart. Kale offers a hefty dose of the nutrient, making it an effective food at reducing the risk for heart disease. Potassium counteracts the effects sodium have on the blood, which is a big part of why it benefits the heart so much. Sodium is terrible for the heart and can lead to stroke and heart failure due to an excessive buildup of fluid.
Anyone counting on kale to help improve their health should not be disappointed. The vegetable offers numerous benefits that makes it more than worthwhile. Add some to the daily meal plan for a hefty boost in nutrition.
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