Super Kale
By Chef Nelda
Kale is being touted as a new ‘Super Food’. Kale is now recognized as providing support for the body’s detoxification system helping regulate cleansing at a genetic level. Its anti-inflammatory benefits play a leading dietary role respective to oxidative stress. This green scores 1,000 on the Aggregate Nutrient Density Index. Nutritionally it has vitamins K, A and C; more iron than beef with calcium more readily absorbed by the body than dairy.
In addition to the multiple physical health benefits each of these nutrients provide, Kale offers a unique source of mood boosting power. It’s high in fiber containing 121 mg. of Omega-3 and 92.4 mg. of Omega 6 fatty acids. Studies have shown Omega-3 fatty acids are as powerful as antidepressants in treating symptoms of depression and anxiety. Given your brain is comprised of two thirds fat, it is easy to see how increasing your intake of Omega fatty acids can increase concentration, clarity, memory and mood.
In the color spectrum, green is at the center of the rainbow representing balance, healing emotionally, stability and rejuvenation.
Keep kale in your diet in various ways by sauté’s, chopped fine in salads or this cooling smoothie recipe below:
KALE SMOOTHIE
½ Cup Water or Coconut Milk or Almond Milk
1 Pear quartered
1/3 Cup Frozen Mixed Berries
½ Juiced lemon
2 Cups Kale – Chopped/Stems Removed
Stevia or Honey to Taste
1 Teaspoon Tahini Optional
Blend ingredients adding more liquid or ice cubes if needed.
Chef Nelda has a Master’s in Holistic Nutrition, Culinary Training and a passion for implementing the synergy of foods health and healing.
