Known as The Ultimate Health Food or Super food, kale is a green leafy vegetable that contains vitamin A and C, potassium, calcium, iron, and folate. It is also rich in lutein and zeaxanthin that is good for the eyes. Kale comes from the species of Brassica oleracea which includes: broccoli, Brussels Sprouts, cabbage, Cauliflower, Collard Greens, Kale, Savoy, Kohlrabi, and Gai Lan.
Benefits:
- Kale contains chemicals that help prevent cancer.
- Kale is a good antioxidant and helps with bladder and breast cancer, heart disease, colitis, constipation, Crohn’s disease, diabetes, hangover, hot flashes, high cholesterol, macular degeneration, and would healing.
- It also contains phytonutrients which helps decrease inflammation, improves liver detoxification, and can protect the brain from stress.
- Aside from the many nutrients it contains, it also has flavonol kaempferol which stops the growth of pancreatic cancer cells.
- Kale can be eaten as food source or as medicine.
- It can be prepared in various ways such as smoothie, salad, juice, side dish, baked as chips or mix in cocktails.
Kale Allergy:
Kale allergy is not common but some people have reported reactions the first time they eat it. Symptoms include: tingling sensation, itching of the mouth, lips and throat and inflammation or swelling. Other symptoms reported are vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, skin rash and itching. Severe reactions occur rarely but the symptoms are wheezing, shortness of breath, fainting and dizziness which can later on lead to anaphylactic shock – an emergency medical condition that needs immediate attention.
Considerations:
- Kale is not for those taking blood thinners. The Vitamin K content might interfere with the medicine.
- It is loaded with insoluble fiber and raffinose. Too much kale can cause diarrhea.
- Kale is not for everyone, some may find it very bitter, some may find it tolerable and some may take time to adjust their stomach to this food.
- People who are allergic to other crucifers like broccoli, cabbage, and Brussel sprouts are more likely to be allergic also to kale though this is very rare to happen.
- Kale should be bought organic because it is among the list of vegetables that contain a lot of pesticides.
- Visit your doctor in case you suspect kale allergy as most of the time it is mistaken for other food allergies or the cause of reaction may not be due to ingestion of kale.
Disclaimer:
This material is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and should not be relied as medical advice. Always consult your doctor before taking any medication or supplements.