Kale is perhaps one of the most popular superfoods…and it’s no wonder why. With its rich nutritional profile and vast flavor variety, many people are adding this cruciferous vegetable to their daily menus.
So why should your family hop on the kale bandwagon?
What is kale?
There are several types of kale, ranging in color from deep greens to blues and purples; some kale plants can reach a height of 7 feet with leaves extending to the sky, while others are more compact and symmetrical. Depending on the season and variety of kale, its flavor profile is notably earthy, some expressing a bitter pepperiness and others a delicate sweetness. When shopping for kale, it’s a good idea to keep in mind that kale is in season from mid-winter through early spring, which is when you can discover the sweeter side of this textured vegetable.
What is the history of kale?
While the exact origins of kale are up for debate, it was one of the most common green vegetables eaten in Europe until the end of the Middle Ages. Even then, this superfood was treasured for its impressive nutritional profile!
In fact, during World War II, the cultivation of kale skyrocketed. People were encouraged to eat this powerhouse vegetable daily to deliver important nutrients that were missed by most due to rationing.
What makes kale a Superfood?
Where do we start! Kale is jam-packed with nutritional goodness, offering a rich supply of beneficial:
- Beta-carotene
- Vitamins K & C
- Calcium
- Lutein & Zeaxanthin
- Indole-3-Carbinol
- Flavonoid Antioxidant Activity
- Alpha-Linolenic Acid (Omega-3)
- Fiber
- Folate
- Plus, much more!
These phytonutrients help to support your overall health and well-being from head to toe, inside and out, making kale a must-have in any diet!
How can I get more kale in my diet?
Kale is truly a versatile vegetable! Found in cuisines around the world, kale can be steamed, added to salads, blended into smoothies, or even baked into crispy kale chips.
Here’s a quick tip: adding a bit of lemon to your kale can help cut some of the bitterness if you aren’t a fan of its famous flavor.
Get your daily supply of this superfood in Piping Rock’s own Kale Supplements!
Featuring 800 mg of wholesome nutrition, these supplements are a fantastic way to benefit from kale’s natural properties in an easy-to-swallow capsule.
You can grab your own bottle of Kale here and be sure to let us know what you think! What are your favorite kale recipes? Do you grow these hardy vegetables in your garden?
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