Americans consume more kale now than ever before, with 400% more restaurants offering it as a regular item on their menus (1). We at New Life Chiropractic in Fort Wayne, In are here to tell you why. Kale is a leafy green that is found in several different types such as purple, curly, or plain.  This leafy cousin of the cauliflower, collards and cabbage is called a ‘superfood’ for a good reason!

One serving of kale is packed with 134% of your daily vitamin C needs, 684% of your daily vitamin K needs, 204% of your vitamin A needs, in addition to iron, calcium, and other necessary vitamins and minerals, all at 33 calories (2)!

Kale is also a great source of fiber and has more protein compared to other vegetables - two key players in maintaining a healthy weight. Kale has known anti-inflammatory compounds that can reduce the internal swelling that worsens IBS, heart conditions, colitis and food allergies. Kale is a proven anti-cancer food that can help reprogram cancer cells, stop tumor growth, and inactivate carcinogens (3).

Kale salads and chips represent just a fraction of the tasty dishes you can make with kale. This leafy green makes an excellent addition to soups, omelets, and pasta. Kale is best paired with a fat such as parmesan cheese and/or a citrus source like lemon juice (4) to help your body absorb the omega-3s and iron found naturally in this vegetable. Adding more kale to your diet is a simple change that could have a big impact on your health!

1. http://nationalkaleday.org/kale-101/
2. http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2461/2
3. https://draxe.com/health-benefits-of-kale/
4. http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/07/30/kale-facts-nutrition- info_n_3671210.html