Super Food Kale Chips

What makes Kale so great? A nutritional powerhouse, Kale is a fantastic source of protein and vital nutrients for vegans and vegetarians (plus those meat eaters too!). I like to make kale chips, which taste like a total treat food but are low in fat and ridiculously good for you. Start by peeling off the kale leaves and throwing away the stalks as these are too fibrous to eat. Toss leaves in one tablespoon of olive oil and sprinkle with seasoning (I use my favourite combination of garlic, lemon and paprika salt). Bake in a moderate oven on a lined tray for about 15 minutes, until toasted and dry. Once cool, you can store these chips in a air tight sealed bag for a few days. Read on to find out the top ten reasons why kale is such a great addition to your diet. 

1. Kale is low in calories, high in fiber and fat-free. One cup of kale has only 36 calories, 5 grams of fiber and 0 grams of fat. It is great for aiding in digestion and elimination with its great fiber content.

2. Kale is high in iron. Per calorie, kale has more iron than beef. Iron is essential for good health, such as the formation of hemoglobin and enzymes, transporting oxygen to various parts of the body, cell growth and proper liver function.

3. Kale is high in Vitamin K. Eating a diet high in Vitamin K can help protect against various cancers. It is also necessary for a wide variety of bodily functions including normal bone health and the prevention of blood clotting. 

4. Kale is filled with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants, such as carotenoids and flavonoids help protect against various cancers.

5. Kale is a great anti-inflammatory food. One cup of kale is filled with 10% of the RDA of omega-3 fatty acids, which help fight against arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders.

6. Kale is great for cardiovascular support. Eating more kale can help lower cholesterol levels.

7. Kale is high in Vitamin A. Vitamin A is great for your vision, your skin, as well as helping to prevent lung and oral cavity cancers.

8. Kale is high in Vitamin C. This is very helpful for your immune system, metabolism and hydration.

9. Kale is high in calcium. Per calorie, kale has more calcium than milk, which aids in preventing bone loss, preventing osteoporosis and maintaining a healthy metabolism.

10. Kale is a great detox food. Kale is filled with fiber and sulfur, both great for detoxifying your body and keeping your liver healthy.