Because I am juicing right now, I have been paying a bit of attention to the ingredients that go into the liquids I’m drinking. In having a cool drink called “Yoga 1” yesterday, I noted that the juice had kale. As always, my curiosity got the best of me and I decided to figure out what the health benefits of the dark green leafy vegetable are. Perhaps unsurprisingly, there are plenty. And they include:
1. Vitamin K.
Vitamin K is an important nutrient that is responsible for helping the body respond to nutrients by regulating normal blood clotting. Additionally, vitamin K assists in transporting calcium through an individual’s body. In discussing more benefits of vitamin K, Dr. Weil notes that it may play a beneficial role in bone health by decreasing our susceptibility to bone fractures while also reducing bone loss. It may also aid in preventing the calcification of our arteries and other soft tissues. Kale comes with an ample amount of the vitamin given that every cooked cup of the leafy green contains 1327.6% of the DV.
2. Manganese.
In listing the health benefits of manganese, Organic Facts notes that it can contribute to bone metabolism, healthy bone structure, and the creation of essential enzymes that help build our bones. Additionally, manganese operates as a co-enzyme that aids metabolic activities that transpire in our bodies. Other benefits of manganese include the absorption of calcium, formation of connective tissues, regulation of blood sugar level, the proper functioning of sex hormones and the thyroid gland, and the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Each cup of cooked kale contains 27% of the DV.
3. Tryptophan.
As many dietitians and nutritionists know, tryptophan is one of 10 essential amino acids that our bodies use to synthesize the proteins our bodies need. Tryptophan is known for its ability to help produce nervous system messengers, particularly the ones that pertain to restfulness, relaxation, and sleep. Tryptophan also plays a role in the regulation of appetite and mood elevation. Each cup of cooked kale contains 9.3% of the DV for tryptophan.
Conclusion
As made plain by the information listed above, kale is an incredibly healthy vegetable to consume. Thus if you are looking to improve your health and thereby live a more productive and positive life, make a point to start integrating this dark leafy green into your diet. Good luck! :)
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