Everyone should know what they’re putting into their body, whether it’s healthy or not, and maybe this will open your eyes to making better life choices when it comes to food. Healthy eating habits don’t always have to be major life changes; sometimes they can be as simple as adding something to your everyday life. So why not take the first step and add a little green to your life? It may not be money, but it will save you some in the long run. People think eating healthy is always going to be expensive, but it doesn’t have to be. Check out your local health food stores — they usually have some kind of sale going on.
Why you should eat kale
It’s great for your health and overall body. It’s full of antioxidants that your body needs. Kale is great for your immune system and quickens your metabolism to help keep you fit. With only 33 calories per cup, it’s perfect as an appetizing salad or cooked into your entree. Some lettuces don’t have that much taste, which makes people add too many unhealthy dressings or cover it with other foods so they can’t even taste it. Kale is a great alternative. There are over 50 varieties, and the taste differs between types. Do some research — some are sweeter than others, some crisp and some soft.
Different types, same advantages
There are about 7 types of kale but over 50 varieties!
- Common kale
- Ornamental kale
- Dinosaur/Tuscan kale
- Red Russian/Ragged Jack kale
- Redbor kale
- White kale
Kale is a great vegetable to grow any time of the year, but it flourishes most in the fall and winter, so don’t worry about it going out of season. The only differences in kale are their type, colors and some flavors. As soon as you realize how great kale can be for you, you’ll be questioning why it hasn’t had a permanent spot in your fridge already. Kale is a great source of vitamins such as A, C, K and B for brain development. Kale helps your blood sugar and decreases the risk of heart disease.
Carrots aren’t the only vegetables that are good for your eyes; kale aids vision due to the amount of vitamin A it contains. Kale also helps with digestion, as it contains 2.5 grams of fiber. Still not impressed? This little superfood isn’t so little after all, as it’s been linked to a decreased risk of bladder, breast, prostate, ovary and colon cancer. What’s not to love?
Taking your first step with simple recipes
It all begins with a simple recipe. There are lots of recipes to choose from on the internet. Just find the right one for you. Don’t be afraid to get out there and experiment with kale. There’s not much room to go wrong, so don’t knock it till you try it!
Steamed winter vegetables by realfoodforlife.com
Kale and banana smoothie by Rice on allrecipes.com
Kale and quinoa salad by Kicious on allrecipes.com