“It’s all about the Kale!”

Everyday we are inundated about the merits of kale, however is kale all that it’s cracked up to be or is it just another fad or passing craze? Of all the dark leafy greens, I simply LOVE kale and never get tired of eating it! It’s sweet in taste and is able to be consumed in a plethora of ways, including baked, broiled, fried, steamed, juiced, etc. Kale delivers a hefty supply of powerhouse vitamins like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and Vitamin K, as well as other essential nutrients for the skin and hair.

Vitamin A is one of the most skin-essential vitamins around. Vitamin A supports skin cell turnover, the process of replacing dead skin cells with healthier new skin cells. Without adequate Vitamin A, skin becomes dry, tough, and scaly, because the top layers of dead skin cells are continuously building on top of each other, and not being removed and replaced by newer skin cells. Lack of vitamin A can also weaken the skin, so wounds heal at a slower pace. So since your skin is an integral part of your immune system, strengthening this barrier by promoting cell production will help protect your skin from infection or other unhealthy irritants.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant, which helps reduce damage caused by free radicals. This damage includes premature aging of the skin caused by overexposure to the sun. Antioxidants in kale can help keep your skin youthful!

Vitamin K is as a powerful ingredient found in many skin care products that helps diminish puffiness and dark circles under your eyes. Like Vitamin C, it also has anti-inflammatory benefits that helps with bloating and prevents puffiness around your face. The anti-inflammatory property also reduces redness and flakiness of the skin.

The mineral Copper boosts the production of melanin, a pigment that protects your skin from the sun. Copper also helps produce more collagen like its buddy, Vitamin C and promotes wound healing.

Omega-3, Omega-6 fatty acids, and iron are also found in kale. These nutrients can help boost the elasticity, strength, and growth of your hair.

So, without hesitation, dive into one of my favorite superfoods…the queen of Vitamin A and a powerful source of other noble nutrients…ALL HAIL TO THE KALE!

Note: My other green and leafy top picks include the following: spinach, turnip greens, broccoli, arugula, swiss chard and bok choy.