What’s the Deal with Kale?

In the last few years, kale has exploded onto the diet and fitness scene, usurping spinach as reigning green-leaf champion. Healthy recipe books and fitness blogs alike suggest kale as a diet staple. But why is kale such a big deal? The taste is nothing to write home about and it can be tough if not cooked properly so why is it popping up in restaurant menus and celebrity Instagram feeds? Is it really as healthy as the fad suggests?

Kale is a leafy green but it is more closely related to cabbage than to spinach which explains its tough texture. The great thing about kale is its nutritional make-up; it is very low in calories and contains no fat but it is also chock full of vitamins A and C, among other vitamins and minerals. It also contains some omega threes, some protein, and lots of fiber. The fiber in kale can help regulate the digestive system while the vitamins and minerals boost your immune system and your brain health. Because it is low in calories and fat but high in fiber, you can fill up on kale quickly and not fall off of your diet bandwagon.

It is clear that kale really is a super food with lots of health benefits but the taste and texture still might leave something to be desired so it is important to know how best to eat it. You don’t have to eat a bowl full of raw kale to be healthy. Sautéing kale is a great way to eat it. Sautéing breaks down the texture, making it tender, and improves on the taste. Once sautéed, kale can be added to pastas, soups, rice bowls, etc.

However, one of the most popular uses of kale is in healthy smoothies. This negates the texture and allows other flavors to pull through, giving you the benefits of kale without even realizing you’re consuming it. You can also boost the smoothie even further by adding a scoop of Traditional Tonic Nourishing Collagen which will work with the kale to boost brain and gut health and support your hair, skin, nails, and joints. Combined, these two health powerhouses support your whole body!